Sparkles in the Park is held annually in Riverside Park, a place enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. In the spring and summer, Riverside Park is home to a gigantic floral clock made of thousands of plants and flowers. As the temperatures drop and the clock begins to wilt, it means it’s time to look forward to thousands of sparkling lights all throughout the park instead.

A fun family tradition for people of all ages, Sparkles in the Park will be held this year from December 15, 2018 until January 1, 2019. The light show will be open every night from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. It is hosted and created by the Rotary Club of Guelph and is completely free to attend. However, a voluntary donation is appreciated and will go towards supporting the Rotary Club’s numerous charitable efforts. The event raises thousands of dollars every year.

Come and enjoy the sight of over 30,000 sparkling lights underneath the dark winter sky. Many of the displays are sponsored by local businesses and organizations, and a festive nativity scene is put on display every year as well. The event kicks off on opening day with a visit from Santa Claus so that your little ones can tell him exactly what they want for Christmas. It then draws to a close on New Year’s Eve at 8 pm with a large fireworks display that you don’t want to miss.

Visitors are welcome to take in the light displays either from the comfort of their own vehicle or on foot. If you’re up for an evening stroll, then you’ll find plenty of free parking where you can leave your car. If you’d prefer a drive, then just make sure you drive slowly throughout the park and watch for other drivers and walkers.

Riverside Park is a beautiful, 80-acre space that encompasses a portion of Guelph’s Speed River. The Rotary Club of Guelph does an amazing job turning it into a winter wonderland for everyone to enjoy. A part of what makes the park so unique and, in turn, what makes Sparkles in the Park so unique, is that it is also home to a frozen skating trail. The trail winds through the park’s trees and benches and adds another dimension to your viewing experience. It can be found near the carousel and concession stand.

If you plan to view the lights on foot or on skates, then make sure you check the forecast and dress for the weather. It’ll be a much more enjoyable experience for the whole family if everyone has proper gloves, winter hats, winter boots, and a warm jacket.

Whether viewing beautiful light displays is a part of your holiday tradition or you’re just looking for something fun and seasonal to do, going for a walk, drive, or skate through Riverside Park to take in the sights is sure to be a wonderful experience.