Christmas at Ken Reid 2025

Christmas at Ken Reid: A Heartwarming Holiday Tradition Returns in the Kawarthas

There is something magical about the way winter settles over Ken Reid Conservation Area. The snow softens the trails, the trees stand tall and frosted, and the whole landscape takes on the quiet glow of the holiday season. Every December, that natural beauty becomes the backdrop to one of the region’s most beloved seasonal celebrations: Christmas at Ken Reid.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kawarthaconservation/

 

Saturday, December 6, 2025

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Admission is completely free - donations welcome

Ken Reid Conservation Area located at 277 Kenrei Road in Lindsay

 

This family-friendly event has grown into a true community tradition, one that blends outdoor adventure with classic holiday charm. Whether you are young, young-at-heart, or simply looking for a meaningful way to enjoy the season, Christmas at Ken Reid offers a full day of festive fun in the heart of nature.

Visit with Santa.  The jolly man himself sets up his festive outpost right at Ken Reid, ready to hear wish lists and pose for family photos.  Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides.  One of the event’s most cherished traditions. Climb aboard for a slow, scenic ride through wintry trails, complete with the rhythm of hooves and the crisp December air.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt.  Kids and families can roam the area in search of seasonal clues. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and holiday fun.  Craft Corner & Santa’s Workshop.  A warm, bustling space where young artists can create ornaments, cards, and other festive treasures to bring home.

Story Walk.  Follow the trail and read along as the pages of a holiday book unfold through the forest. It’s peaceful, whimsical, and fun for all ages.  Live Music & Entertainment.   Local musicians bring the soundtrack of the season to life, spreading cheer throughout the conservation area.

Local Vendor Market.  Support local artisans and pick up unique, handcrafted gifts.  Everything from ornaments to baked treats to winter decor.

On-site parking at Christmas at Ken Reid is limited to 100 spaces, which must be pre-purchased in advance for $20.00 per car (HST included). No day-of onsite parking will be available within Ken Reid Conservation Area. Tickets are non-refundable and sold on a first-come, first-served basis through the event website.  For all other attendees, they have made it easy and stress-free to get to the event! Enjoy their convenient off-site parking options with free shuttle buses running all day from multiple pick-up locations in Lindsay.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kawarthaconservation/

 

Christmas at Ken Reid is more than a festival, it is a chance to appreciate winter in one of the region’s most beautiful natural spaces.  For more information visit: https://www.kawarthaconservation.com/learn-and-get-involved/festivals/

Illuminated Forest Returns to Ken Reid Conservation Area December 12th–28^th!

As winter settles over the Kawartha Lakes and the nights grow longer, a magical glow begins to rise from the forests of Ken Reid Conservation Area. Once again, one of the region’s most enchanting seasonal experiences is returning: Illuminated Forest, running nightly from December 12th to 28th.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kawarthaconservation/

 

The moment you step onto the trail, you are greeted by a warm glow that guides you deeper into the forest. Colourful lights wrap gently around branches, lanterns cast soft light across snow-dusted boardwalks, and illuminated displays add a touch of festive magic.  The experience is peaceful and immersive.  Perfect for an evening walk with loved ones, a mindful solo stroll, or a memorable outing with kids who cannot wait to explore a forest full of lights.

Dates: December 12–28, 2025

Evenings after dark

Location: Ken Reid Conservation Area located at 277 Kenrei Road in Lindsay

Admission is completely free - donations welcome

This year, visitors can expect:

New and Returning Light Displays

Each section of the trail offers something different: shimmering arches, glowing trees, and creative installations that bring the woods to life after dark.

Self-Guided Winter Walk

Go at your own pace. Whether you enjoy a slow, quiet stroll or an excited dash from display to display, the forest is yours to experience.

Picture-Perfect Moments

Bring a camera or phone—this event is full of natural photo opportunities. Snowy trees, soft lights, and starry skies make every snapshot enchanting.

A Peaceful Escape

Amid the rush of the holiday season, Illuminated Forest offers a rare opportunity to slow down and appreciate the outdoors in its quiet, glowing beauty.

New for 2025: Free Transit to Ken Reid Conservation Area!  To help even more residents enjoy the Illuminated Forest, Kawartha Conservation and the City of Kawartha Lakes are partnering to provide free public transit from Lindsay to Ken Reid Conservation Area on: Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13 as well as Friday and Saturday, December 19 and 20^th.

Visitors taking the City’s public transit can enjoy the event at no cost, with only the regular $4 per vehicle parking fee applying to those driving.

Illuminated Forest is designed to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Families bring children bundled in snowsuits; couples enjoy romantic winter evenings; photographers come to capture nature in a new light. Ken Reid’s flat, well-maintained trail system makes the experience accessible for most abilities, and the walk is short enough for young children while still offering plenty to explore. It’s a celebration of winter, community, and the quiet beauty of the natural world made brighter with thousands of twinkling lights.

For more information please visit: https://www.kawarthaconservation.com/learn-and-get-involved/festivals/

 

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