Illustration of a snowy street at dusk with glowing string lights on houses and trees and a family and snowman by a fence (Rotary Club of Barrie Festival of Trees)

Rotary Club of Barrie Festival of Trees

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

The Rotary Club of Barrie's Festival of Trees transforms Lakeshore Drive into a magical winter wonderland with a spectacular display of lights. These festive illuminations, sponsored by local businesses, remain lit from the Santa Claus parade until spring, offering a continuous holiday spectacle. Following the parade, attendees can enjoy a community picnic.

Map It Details Official site

Advertisement

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Food & Drink

Hot dogs, hot chocolate, and hot cider available at post-parade picnic

Going?

Location

Lakeshore Drive · Barrie, ON Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, magical, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate (lights are visible in most weather, but picnic is outdoors)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for the Santa Claus parade to secure a good viewing spot along Lakeshore Drive before the Festival of Trees lights are officially illuminated.
  • Dress warmly for the post-parade picnic, as outdoor temperatures can be chilly during the holiday season.
  • Consider visiting Lakeshore Drive during different times of the day to appreciate the lights in various lighting conditions.
  • Check the Rotary Club of Barrie's social media for any updates on the Santa Claus parade date and time, as this marks the official lighting of the trees.
  • Take a leisurely drive or walk along Lakeshore Drive after dark to fully experience the magical ambiance created by the illuminated trees.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Lights lit during the Santa Claus parade
  • Post-parade picnic with hot dogs, hot chocolate, and hot cider

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the Festival of Trees lights turn on?

The lights are officially lit during the Santa Claus parade and remain on until spring.

Is there a cost to view the lights?

Viewing the lights along Lakeshore Drive is free of charge.

What happens after the Santa Claus parade?

Immediately following the parade, there is a community picnic with hot dogs, hot chocolate, and hot cider.

Who sponsors the Festival of Trees?

The lights are sponsored by generous companies, whose logos are displayed on signs throughout the park.

Where are the lights located?

The lights are displayed along Lakeshore Drive.

Browse Christmas in Barrie

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last checked: