NEWS RELEASE
SAINTE-MARIE AMONG THE HURONS
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First Light is returning to historic Sainte-Marie among the Hurons in Midland.
Huronia Historical Parks will transform the reconstructed 17th-century mission into a magical holiday experience, illuminating the historic site with thousands of candles. The event will take place over three weekends this year: Nov. 16 to 18, Nov. 23 to 25 and Nov. 30 to Dec. 2 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Guests will make festive memories as First Light transports them back in time to a world of holiday charm with live musical performers, unique activities, and lively historic demonstrations. Guided by lantern-lit pathways, visitors will enjoy the historic buildings, dressed up for the holiday season with fresh greenery and festive decor — all bathed in the beautiful amber glow of cozy fires and more than 5,000 candles.
“First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a magical, one-of-a-kind experience for people of all ages in a beautiful, historical setting,” said Neil Lumsden, minister of tourism, culture and sport. “The variety of sights, family-friendly events and activities will create lifelong memories for all visitors. It should be a part of everyone’s winter season plans.”
For those who enjoy holiday shopping, more than 40 exceptional crafters and artisans will be located throughout the Brébeuf Event Centre, indoor museum and grounds. Sainte-Marie’s Flint and Timber Gift Shop will also be open and offering charming holiday finds, including souvenir First Light travel mugs.
Returning performers include Ruth Sutherland playing traditional harp music in the historic Church of Saint-Joseph, hand drumming by Chris Walser in the longhouse, and the energetic fan favourite, Doug Feaver, performing holiday folk tunes in the restaurant. Activities for families include quill pen writing, candle-making demonstrations, storytelling and much more.
Guests will be invited to cozy up to their loved ones outside as fireworks light up the night on Friday evenings at 7 p.m.
The Martyrs’ Shrine’s Big Canoe Food Truck and local favourite Grounded Coffee Co. will offer a unique foodie experience on the Sainte-Marie patio. Hot chocolate and freshly popped popcorn will also be available for purchase on the historic site and in the restaurant.
“I’ve experienced First Light many times, and it always manages to bring that touch of holiday magic to the festive season,” says Will Baird, general manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “There’s a reason so many families choose to make it an annual tradition.”
First Light has strong ties to community groups, and many will be involved in this year’s celebration. Community choirs will lift holiday spirits with performances on Nov. 16, 23 and 30. Community organizations like the Wye Marsh will be offering presentations and demonstrations throughout the event. Sainte-Marie among the Hurons also asks that visitors bring non-perishable food donations, with the goal of filling a large canoe in support of the local Salvation Army food drive.
Huronia Historical Parks would also like to thank the generosity of sponsors: Tay Township, Newmarket Tay Hydro, Bourgeois Auto Group, Factory Recreation, Garraway’s Electrical Services, Charles Morden Construction Inc., H.S. St. Amant & Sons Inc., Fred Hook Ltd., Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc., Georgian Bay Tree Farms as well as Kool FM and Rock 95.
Parking will be available at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, as well as Walmart in Midland, where shuttle buses will be running throughout each of the nine evenings.
For more information, or to buy tickets for First Light, please visit SainteMarie-events.ca. Walk-ins are also welcome. Guests aren’t required to make a reservation or purchase advance tickets.
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