The holidays sparkle in Rideau Lakes! There’s a bit of magic in lighting up the night at this time of year. Whether you have one strand in your window or your place looks like the Griswolds, here are five ways to enjoy the lights and community this season in Rideau Lakes.
Delta’s Old Stone Mill
The Old Stone Mill National Historic Site in Delta is the definition of a Christmas spectacle. The mill windows are lit up with a trio of candles in each window, accented by a wreath. The light that shines forth is heart-warming. The Old Stone Mill is closed for the season, but if you’re looking for a memorable holiday photo stop outside, this is it. As the only surviving pre-1812 stone grist mill in the province, it speaks to times gone by – and gives a serious boost to festive spirit! Look beside the Old Stone Mill for miniature building replicas and have fun driving or walking by to see the little historic buildings aglow!
Photo: Old Stone Mill by Ken Watson
Portland Christmas in the Village
Elgin Christmas Tree Lighting
Did you hear about the Elgin Christmas Tree Lighting this Saturday? Join Santa and the Elgin CEC on Saturday, Dec. 6 starting at 4 p.m. to enjoy free hotdogs, hot chocolate, holiday crafts, music and the jolly old elf himself. Santa arrives at 5 p.m.! Sounds like a fun way to boost your holiday spirit.
Santa is coming to Newboro
I spy… a Christmas Tree!
Shine a light on something a little different! There’s a lone memorial tree on top of Foley Mountain that is lit up every year with eye-catching lights. Looking up from below the mountain, visitors can see the tree as a bright holiday beacon - and it’s also beautiful when up at Spy Rock, peacefully overlooking North Crosby and Westport.
Photo: Christmas Tree on Foley Mountain by Lee Traynor (Westport Ontario Facebook Page)
Village driving tours
Villages in Rideau Lakes shine brightly throughout the festive season! Community trees are aglow in the heart of local villages like Newboro’s tree near the cenotaph. Next, pack some hot chocolate and go for an evening drive around the villages to see colourful residential holiday light displays everywhere from Chaffeys Lock to Lombardy! Speaking of Chaffey’s Lock - have you ever walked around the lockstation as the snow is falling? With decorative lightposts and still water it’s a peaceful place in the off season - just like a Christmas card.
Window displays
If you’re in Newboro, be sure to stop and see the lovely window displays at Kilborn’s On the Rideau for some extra holiday sparkle. The Tipped Ship in Elgin also has windows aglow with festive displays to get into the spirit!
Holiday tip: Be sure to pick up a free Christmas craft kit for the littles at any of the five branches of the Rideau Lakes Public Library after Monday, Dec. 8, while supplies last.
There’s something about holiday lights that spark the festive spirit. Wherever the holidays take you, revel in the festive spirit in Rideau Lakes this season!
