Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons is ready to embrace the holiday season The glow of 5,000 candles will once again light up St. Marie Among the Hurons as its signature holiday event, First Light, celebrates its 25th anniversary this season. What began as a modest winter gathering has grown into one of Ontario’s most cherished holiday traditions, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
“It started as a fairly small sort of community event where we lit candles on the historic site and offered our regular historical programming,” explained Marketing Coordinator Mikaela Lefaive. “Over the years, it’s grown into this beloved holiday tradition for so many people.”
This year’s edition promises more magic than ever. Running Thursdays through Sundays from 5:30 to 9 p.m., First Light will feature live music, historical demonstrations, and an artisan market showcasing about 50 local makers each night. Families can also enjoy crafts, blacksmithing demonstrations, and a visit with St. Nicholas at the nearby Martyrs’ Shrine, which will open its church for the occasion.
For those looking to make the experience extra special, organizers recommend booking add-ons in advance. Options include a behind-the-scenes tour—where guests help light some of the thousands of candles—a holiday choir performance, and unique dining experiences like the “snow globe” dinner. “If you want to attend something extra, then make sure you book your tickets in advance,” they advised.
New this year: Overnight cabin stays
Three cozy, four-season cabins along the Wye River offer a serene escape just steps from the historic site. “They’re tiny but adorable,” said organizers. “All the furniture is built by our carpenters. They have little fireplaces and a fire pit outside.” The cost is $200 per night, including First Light admission.
Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased online at stmary-events.ca, though walk-ins are welcome. With shuttle service between St. Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine and thousands of candles lighting the way, this year’s First Light is set to be unforgettable.
Listen below to our interview with Mikaela Lefaive; it begins at the 29:47 mark
