Check out the Winter Festival of Lights at Niagara Falls in Ontario

The Winter Festival of Lights kicked off at the weekend at Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada. The Winter Festival of Lights runs from now until 31 January 2011. For the festival, Niagara Falls is transformed into a winter wonderland of colourful illuminations. Over three million lights spread across 5km.

The Winter Festival of Lights has 125 different lighting displays. Some light Niagara Falls in a spectacular rainbow of colours. Meanwhile, there are more lighting effects that illuminate the trees in the Niagara Parks Winter Wonderland. Also, check out the world-famous Enchantment of Disney displays. Entry to the Winter Festival of Lights is free, though visitors are encouraged to give a donation.

Niagara Falls was first lit up in 1860 and electric lighting was first used to light the falls in 1879. Since then, the lights used to light Niagara Falls have grown in intensity. This year the Winter Festival of Lights event celebrates its 28th instalment.

In addition the magical illuminations will be accompanied by spectacular fireworks displays on selected Friday evenings in November and December from 9pm. There will also be a special New Year's Eve fireworks display at midnight over Niagara Falls on 31 December.

Another feature of the Winter Festival of Lights is the Rink at the Brink, which runs from 1 December 2010 to 28 February 2011. The ice skating rink is right next to the Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls, providing a spectacular view while you glide across the ice. Visit the rink in the evening to make the most of the illuminated view of Niagara Falls.

If you plan to visit the Winter Festival of Lights, there are plenty of hotels to choose from that are just a short walk from Niagara Falls. There's also a choice of eateries on hand to feed your appetite before or after your walk around the Winter Festival of Lights.

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