Sainte-Marie's historical buildings during First Light

First Light
Until December 8

Experience holiday magic by candlelight

Icon of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Welcome to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. In 1639, the Jesuits, along with French lay workers, began construction of a palisaded community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. By 1648, Sainte-Marie was home to 66 French men — one-fifth of the entire population of New France. Sainte-Marie’s history ended in 1649, when members of the mission community were forced to abandon and burn their home of ten years.

Une femme qui joue la harpe pendant les premières lueurs à Sainte-Marie. Elle est sur une estrade dans l'église Saint-Joseph, illuminée par des douzaines de bougies

First Light

Nov 21 to Dec 8 Thursday to Sunday

Now in its 24th year, Sainte-Marie’s First Light is an award-winning, must-see holiday event with a great lineup of family activities and live musical performances, all amidst the spectacular glow of thousands of candles. This year, you’re visiting two candlelit attractions for the price of one: Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine!

Hope, a costumed interpreter at Sainte-marie, entertaining a group of students outside of the main entrance wigwam

Educational programs

Reserve your visit for 2025!

Discover hands-on, curriculum-driven (and fun!) learning opportunities at this reconstructed 17th century Jesuit mission in the heart of Wendake. Explore half-day, full-day, and digital learning experiences your students will never forget. School and community group visits available from April to October. Winter programs offered from January to mid-March.

L'intérieur du centre Brébeuf, décoré pour un evenement.

The perfect venue

Brébeuf Event Centre

Historic Sainte-Marie offers a fascinating backdrop to your Annual General Meeting, conference or staff retreat! Our Brébeuf Event Centre is fully equipped with a projector, screen, table and chairs for up to 100 guests, a kitchen, private entrance, coat room, and can accommodate up to 100 guests. Ample free parking onsite. Catering is available through Restaurant Sainte-Marie or book your own!

Un mur de bois

Plan Your Visit

Sainte-Marie will reopen for daily time travel in early May 2025. Educational programs, group bookings, and facility rentals are also available most of the year. Special events, such as First Light, take place on select dates.

Deux interprètes historiques, habillés en costumes de donné, à enseigner l'écriture avec des plumes et de l'encre

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Monthly updates

Sign up for our newsletter and be in the know! Get early notice about your favourite events at Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour. Pick up interesting historical facts. Hear about deals and discounts. Find out about career opportunities at Huronia Historical Parks. Learn about new activities at both historic sites.

Buy your season passes

Valid April 1 to March 31

For just $35 tax included, season pass holders gain unlimited admission to both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour during their visitor seasons, as well as unlimited admission to most special events, including First Light, Pumpkinferno, Pirates of the Bay, Hometown Harvest Festival and many more!

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Four images of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons: two men playing lacrosse, the blacksmith at work, some resin and birchbark, a smiling interpreter in costume