Tag Archives: Niagara Falls Thanksgiving

American Thanksgiving In Niagara Falls

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A  vacation to Niagara Falls during American Thanksgiving (Nov. 23, 2023) is an idea the whole family can be thankful for! Thanksgiving is a great time of year as it’s generally the kick off for the holiday season. Its pumpkin pie, delicious turkey dinner and the perfect opportunity to gather and spend time with loved ones.  Of course, in all that gathering, someone – usually Mom– ends up having to do some major cooking and baking. This year, give Mom (or Dad, or Grandma) a break and get away…by spending the American Thanksgiving in Niagara Falls!

According the American Automobile Association (AAA),  this years holiday weekend will see “record-breaking numbers on the road and in the air this year.” So if you are are thinking about getting away before the weather turns for the worse, you are not alone and in good company this year.



Though temperatures dip in late November, its generally a dryer month than October with very little snow accumulation, making the drive manageable. The long range weather forecast for Niagara Falls is something to pay attention to closer to the time of departure. It’s also a festive time as the city gears up for the holidays with many decorative displays like the: Winter Festival of Lights, nearby holiday markets and events happening just before the major Christmas holiday period.  Another bonus is the minimal  tourists that visit during this time of year making it far more relaxing for local sightseeing.  Of course the world famous Clifton Hill area, at the heart of Niagara Falls, is worth a visit with most everything open, including the Niagara Speedway (weather permitting).  Whether you’re seeking to get closer to one of nature’s most powerful wonders: the Falls, or you’d like to toss in some good ole’ fashion fun, the Thanksgiving activities this year are rather impressive.


Clifton Hill Coupons!

Save on your favourite attraction on Clifton Hill!


Let Us Do the Cooking!

Sit back, relax, and gather your family at Boston Pizza Clifton Hill.

We have more than 100 delicious menu items for dinner to choose from. They are sure to please the pickiest of eaters at your table. From appetizers to dessert, plus one of the best kid’s menu’s around, we have you covered!

The best part about our venue is that we are geared towards families and boast over 25,000 sqft. of indoor family entertainment with nearby bowling, billiards, rides and games galore…not to mention delicious food! Many families love having friendly competition at the neighboring Strike! Game Zone entertainment complex!

Don’t miss out on the family fun during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend!


Shop Till You Drop!

What’s an American Thanksgiving in Niagara Falls without some Niagara Falls shopping?

With Black Friday sales popping up everywhere in Niagara Falls, Canada and the strong U.S. dollar, American Thanksgiving weekend is the time to engage in some retail therapy! The Canada One Outlet Mall will have some amazing deals popping up. It’s home to top designer name outlets such as Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Carter’s OshKosh B’gosh, Rocky Mountain Chocolate, Samsonite, Adidas, Guess, American Eagle, La Vie en Rose, SVP Sports, Golf Liquidators and so much more.

Additionally, Clifton Hill has the top selection of Niagara Falls inspired souvenirs. There is no need to stray far from the picturesque beauty of the Falls to get to one of Niagara’s largest souvenir stores — the Canada Trading Company. You are likely to find that special something to take home after a memorable trip. The Canada Trading Co. offers top quality clothing, figurines, water globes, wind spinners, handcrafted jewelry, as well as an impressive display of Native art, totems, Inukshuks & Moccasins, dream catchers, masks and statues — the list goes on and on!

A trip to Niagara Falls isn’t complete without a stop at the decadently sweet Fudge Factory! Save room for something luscious, because you won’t believe all the delectable goodies made fresh at Fudge Factories gorgeous shop!


The Winter Festival of Lights!

The Biggest and the Brightest of All Winter Festivals in Ontario!

The Niagara Winter Festival of Lights is FREE and open to everyone! It takes place November 18th 2023 to January 7th, 2024 along 8 km of the Niagara Parkway and within Queen Victoria Park, Dufferin Islands, and various tourist areas throughout Niagara Falls including: Clifton Hill, the Victoria Centre, Fallsview Boulevard, and Lundy’s Lane.  Festival organizers have carefully crafted a brilliant schedule to ensure a diverse variety of events happen each week over roughly two months. Visitors should come out early and often to catch all the distinctive events throughout the festival.

Click here for more details on the Winter Festival of Lights.


Greg Frewin Theatre

For another type of magic, wander over to the Greg Frewin Theatre. An International Grand Champion of Magic, Greg Frewin’s ‘WONDER’ Show brings the best of the Las Vegas style family magic show to the Falls. There’s even an opportunity to have your picture taken with a tiger.

The ‘WONDER’ Show runs Wednesday, November 23th to the 26th at 6:00pm and 7:30pm, with the option to include a dinner at 6pm.

Check the Full November Schedule Here


Niagara Falls Illumination

Don’t miss out on the Niagara Falls Illumination!

Fall/Winter Schedule:

Nightly: November 1st – December 31st from 4:30 PM – 2:00 AM

Special Illuminations

  • November 23rd. Top of every hour for 15 minutes from 4:30 PM – 2:00 AM
    • American Thanksgiving Red, White, Blue
  • November 24, 2023
    • 16 Days of Activism @10:00 – 10:15 PM: Orange
    • Go Blue for AMR @10:15 – 10:30 PM: Blue
  • November 25, 2023
    • International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women @10:00 – 10:15 PM: Purple

Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse Annual Christmas Display

For over 65 years, the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse builds traditional holiday displays every Christmas season!

The Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse hosts the Annual Poinsettia Show to celebrate the holiday season. This legendary programme blends classic holiday scenes with contemporary flourishes of vibrant colours and lights that bring the cosiness and beauty of the holiday season to life.

Enter the holiday season with this magnificent arrangement of cheery poinsettias, which is enhanced with a lovely collection of cyclamens, amaryllis, and orchids that perfectly embody Niagara’s Christmas atmosphere.

The Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights, taking place throughout Queen Victoria Park, and the Artist Garden, with dozens of illumination exhibits, are both open to show attendees as well as the general public.

Hours of operation may vary by date

EVENT DETAILS
DATE NOV 18, 2023 – JAN 7, 2024 (Closed Dec 25th)

LOCATION
7145 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls 

https://www.cliftonhill.com/events/floral-showhouse-christmas-display


Weekend Events During American Thanksgiving

Christmas On Ice
Air Supply
Brigadoon
A Christmas Carol
Sarah Brightman
Festival Of Lights

Parking on Clifton Hill

How Well Do You Know Canadian Thanksgiving?

Reading Time:  2 minutes -

As the crisp autumn breeze rustles through the maple leaves and families gather around festive tables laden with turkey and all the trimmings, Canadians know that Thanksgiving has arrived. Beyond the delectable meals and cozy gatherings, this holiday has a rich history and cultural significance in Canada that’s worth exploring.

Welcome to our Canadian Thanksgiving quiz, where we invite you to delve into the traditions, history, and unique aspects of this beloved holiday. Whether you’re a lifelong Canadian, an enthusiastic visitor, or simply a holiday enthusiast seeking to broaden your horizons, this quiz will whisk you away on a journey through the annals of Canadian Thanksgiving.

So, grab a pumpkin spice latte, cozy up by the fire, and let’s embark on this delightful journey through Canadian Thanksgiving history and culture. Are you ready to harvest some knowledge? Let’s get started!



Thanksgiving Activities
Go Train Schedule

Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving In Niagara Falls!

Reading Time:  8 minutes -

Spend a One-of-a-kind Thanksgiving Weekend In Niagara

Thanksgiving Canada: Monday, October 9th, 2023

NIAGARA FALLS, ON We know it’s hard to believe with these Summer-like temperatures that we’ve been having, but Autumn is here! Very soon, we will see crisp sweater-weather, vivid sunsets and spectacular rustic colours.

Thanksgiving is the perfect Niagara weekend! Visitors can still enjoy all their favourite area sites and attractions, without the crowds.

Whether you prefer to stroll through one of Niagara’s colourful parks … enjoy the dazzle and excitement of Clifton Hill, or take in the natural wonder of the Horseshoe and American Falls, you won’t be disappointed.


Thanksgiving Weekend Activities:

So many attractions are open during Thanksgiving Weekend! Plan ahead and don’t miss out on some serious FUN!

Niagara Speedway
Movieland
Carnival Chaos
Butterfly Conservatory
Niagara Zipline
Dino Adventure Golf
Niagara SkyWheel
Falls Illumination
Wizards Golf
Bird Kingdom
Hornblower Niagara
Ripley’s Museum
Zombie Attack
Queen Victoria Park
Oakes Garden


Clifton Hill Coupons!

Save on your favourite attraction on Clifton Hill!


TOP THANKSGIVING WEEKEND EVENTS IN NIAGARA

See below for the top Thanksgiving Events in Niagara Falls and surrounding region:

Falls Illumination
Dogstar
Fort Erie Race Track
Farmers Market
Thanksgiving Fireworks
Blue Rodeo
Bill Burr
Floral Showhouse
Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Greg Frewin Live
Museum Events
Legends of Motown

Balls Falls Thanksgiving Weekend Festival

The Balls Falls Thanksgiving Weekend Festival in Vineland returns for 2023.

In its 49th year, the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival is a Niagara Tradition that runs October 6th through October 9th. (10am to 5pm)

FESTIVAL DATES
October 7th through October 10th
10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Entering its 49th year, the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival is a Niagara Tradition that takes place every Thanksgiving Weekend.

The 49th Festival will bring back fall favourites – including 150+ unique craft and artisan vendors, delicious foods, craft beverages and wines, fresh, local farmers’ market vendors, live music on the main stage and children’s entertainment, historical demonstrations, heritage tours and guided nature hikes.

Enjoy the beauty of the fall season along the Niagara Escarpment as you take in the sights, sounds and delicious scents of the Thanksgiving Festival and explore the colourful forested trails.

Make Thanksgiving memories, and visit the Festival with friends and family – enjoy elevated musical entertainment and family-friendly activities and shows throughout each day

Be sure to mark your calendars and join us October 6-9, 2023!

LOCATION & PARKING
The festival is held at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area in Lincoln. Parking will be available on site and volunteers will be available to direct you where to park. A shuttle is available to take you from the parking lot to festival grounds.

3292 Sixth Avenue, Jordan Station, ON L0R 1S0


Greg Frewin Theatre : Ryan Joyce Wonder!

Mark your calendars because from October 6th to 8th, prepare to be absolutely mesmerized at the Greg Frewin Theatrical Centre! We’re talking about none other than the incredible Ryan Joyce—a name that’s making magic echo across continents.

This is a guy who’s taken the world by storm, from the dazzling stages of Las Vegas to leaving audiences spellbound in places like Hong Kong, New Zealand, India, and beyond. And hey, you might’ve caught a glimpse of his mind-blowing talent on top shows like Penn & Teller: Fool Us and Canada’s Got Talent. Believe it or not, his captivating performances have racked up over ten million views on social media. Yep, you read that right—ten million!

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience that’s breaking boundaries and transcending borders. Ryan Joyce’s magic is a sensation that’ll leave you absolutely spellbound. Join us for a night of wonder that you won’t soon forget!

To book, CALL 1(866) 779-8778 or visit

October 6, 7 & 8th
RYAN JOYCE WONDER
Dinner: 6:00 PM:
Show: 7:30 PM

5781 Ellen Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3P8

https://gregfrewintheatre.com/


Howell Family Pumpkin Farm

This October, get ready for a fall adventure like no other at Howell’s Farm! It’s the same beloved Howell’s Farm that families can’t get enough of, and this year, they’re pulling out all the stops with their full lineup of fall attractions.

You name it, they’ve got it—live shows, games, the famous corn pit, hay play, and a whole lot more. It’s a non-stop thrill ride! Dive into the Corn Maze, hop on the Train Rides, bounce around on the Haystack Jumping pillow, and take a leisurely spin on the Tractor Rides. The fun never stops, and it’s all waiting for you. Don’t miss out on this fantastic fall experience!

THANKSGIVING HOURS

Friday, October 6th: 3 pm – 9 pm
Saturday, October 7th: 9 am – 9 pm
Sunday, October 8th: 9 am – 9 pm
Monday, October 9th: 9 am – 5 pm 
Hours are subject to change.

2878 Holland Rd, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6

Click here for more details


Boo at the Zoo

Get ready for some Halloween magic because Boo at the Zoo is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Join us for an extended Halloween celebration over Thanksgiving Weekend, from October 6th to 9th, at this fantastic annual trick-or-treating event.

Gather your crew, whether it’s family or friends, because this is the ultimate Halloween adventure. Picture this: trick-or-treating throughout the zoo, all while soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild, mingling with local vendors and businesses, and getting up close and personal with over 1,000 amazing animals in the spacious park.

Children 12 & under dressed in costumes get in FREE!

And here’s the best part: we’re giving you discounted admission for Adults, and kids 12 and under get in FREE when they come dressed up in their coolest costumes. It’s the perfect recipe for a spooktacular time, so don’t miss out!

October 6th-9th: 9am – 4pm

2821 Stevensville Rd, Stevensville, ON L0S 1S0

Click here for more details


Shaw Festival Events (Thanksgiving Weekend)

In the spirit of Bernard Shaw, the Shaw Festival produces theatre that delights, provokes the mind and stirs the soul through an experience so compelling that artists, audiences and supporters are drawn to our work in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and beyond.

Address: 10 Queen’s Parade, Niagara on the Lake, ON
Phone: 1-800-511-7429

The Clearing

Aug. 3 – Oct 6
Blithe Spirit
Jun. 14 – Oct. 8
The Apple Cart
Jun. 13 – Oct. 7
The Amen Corner

Jul. 30 – Oct. 8
On The Razzle
Apr. 16 – Oct. 8
Shadow of a Doubt
July 16 – Oct. 15
Village Wooing

Jun. 8 – Oct. 7
Prince Caspian
Mar. 30 – Oct. 8
Playboy of the Western World
May 25 – Oct. 7
The Game of Love & Chance
Jun. 28 – Oct. 8
Gypsy
May 10 – Oct. 7
Mother, Daughter
Jun. 3 – Oct. 7

Family Dining for Thanksgiving Weekend

Packed with games, sports memorabilia, and big screen TVs Boston Pizza Clifton Hill is a perfect place for families and small gatherings of all ages. Here you can enjoy amazing pizza and diverse menu options with pizza, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, etc.

Experience our updated KELSEYS Original Roadhouse over the Thanksgiving weekend. Great food, fun and our large patio bar (covered and enclosed in the cool weather).


Boston Pizza
Kelsey’s

Niagara Go Train: Thanksgiving Weekend Schedule

The Go Train is not only running Thanksgiving long weekend, but all weekends throughout the year. So be sure to take advantage of riding from Toronto to Niagara Falls on the train, especially if you plan to hit some of Niagara’s top wineries for harvest time! Also during the week and weekend, the Go Train has three daily routes and the bus system runs a full schedule year round from the GTA to Niagara Falls.


Thanksgiving Weekend Overnight Getaways!

Steps away from the excitement of Clifton Hill, there are a number of Niagara Falls Hotels offering deep discounts and family offerings with great packages. Guests can add many attractions, entertainment and dining offers to their stay.

Howard Johnson
Country Inn & Suites
Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
Double Tree Resort & Spa
Courtyard Marriott
Old Stone Inn

Beer and Liquor Stores

  • Beer Store
    • Most of Niagara’s Beer Stores will be open on the weekend.
    • Friday & Saturday 10am-9pm
    • Sunday 12pm-5pm
    • Thanksgiving Holiday (Monday, October 9th) Closed
  • LCBO
    • Most of the LCBO stores in the Niagara Region will be open.
    • Friday & Saturday 10am-10pm
    • Sunday 10am-8pm
    • Thanksgiving Holiday (Monday, October 9th) Closed
  • Customers are encouraged to check the store locator feature for their local store hours on lcbo.com or the mobile app.

Niagara Falls Parking

For Thanksgiving Weekend, find plenty of parking close to all the Clifton Hill and Niagara Parks attractions, a 5 minute walk to view the Falls, quick access to the Niagara City Cruises and the WildPlay Mist Rider Zipline to the Falls, and both casinos.

We have an expanded parking facility on Clifton Hill to accommodate more vehicles, with an additional Victoria entrance/exit, making our lot one of the most centralized and easily accessible lots in Niagara Falls.

Click the image below for directions and more information: