First Light
Announcing dates for 2025!
Mark your calendars! This year’s candlelit holiday event will take place:
- November 27 to 30
- December 4 to 7
- December 11 to 14
Details and tickets coming soon.
Celebrating 25 years of holiday magic
Now in its 25th 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!
Start your holiday shopping at our extensive artisan market. Enjoy take-home crafts and activities for kids at both Sainte-Marie and the Martyrs’ Shrine. See historical demonstrations including blacksmithing and firestarting. Take part in Sunday night mass. Enjoy a delicious holiday meal, and much more!
There’s a reason this event is an annual tradition for many. Come and experience a little holiday magic!
Image gallery:
Please click each image below to see a larger version.
Thank you to our 2024 sponsors
Please be advised that with the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed on the historic site for this event.
- Please arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time to proceed to the ticket office.
- Most of the vendors will not have the ability to accept credit or debit card payments and will only accept cash payments. There is no ATM on site.
- Sainte-Marie is wheelchair accessible, however pathways on the historic site are covered in woodchips or may be snow covered.
- There are several accessible parking spots near the main entrance of Sainte-Marie, but they fill quickly during this event. We recommend arriving early.
- Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on the property.
- Please note this event takes place mostly outdoors and, visitors should plan to dress accordingly for weather and terrain.
16164 Highway 12 East, Midland, ON, L4R 4K8
Parking Info
There is ample parking for visitors including those with RVs and buses. Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way to the admissions entrance. We also have bike racks available for cyclists coming from the Tay Trail.
Need more info?
Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 526-7838 if you have any questions.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. This community was abandoned and burned down in 1649.
After extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s compelling story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Located near Midland, on the Wye River, this world-renowned reconstruction offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the earliest Canadian pioneer life through self-guided visits, group tours, interactive education programs, and special events. Complete your experience by exploring our interpretive museum and themed gift shop.
Our summer season begins in May
Love First Light? Experience Sainte-Marie among the Hurons during the daytime! Immerse yourself in the important story of cultural contact between the Wendat Nation and French Jesuit missionaries to Wendake. Connect with costumed interpreters and discover the sights, smells, and sounds of 17th century life.
Seasons passes now available
For just $35 (tax included), season pass holders gain unlimited admission to both Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour, whenever the historic attractions are open!
Admission to most special events, like First Light and Pumpkinferno, is included.
Sweetwater Harvest Festival
Did you know we host events throughout the year? This March we’re co-hosting the Sweetwater Harvest Festival, a fundraiser for our neighbours the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. It’s the sweetest event of the year! Celebrate all things spring and maple syrup with a vendor market, kids activities, maple taffy, bannock, and more.
