Bright Lights Windsor Captivates Over 100,000 in Second Year

What makes for a great family tradition is how it gets better every year, and the second annual Bright Lights Windsor definitely delivered this holiday season. Organizers say record crowds attended night after night, and estimate just over 100,000 people visited from December 7 to January 6.

Three times more illumination and four times more displays, along with a holiday market, food and entertainment dazzled crowds on an even grander scale than before. A particular priority for 2018, based on feedback from 2017, was to ensure that pathways were paved throughout the park. With those improvements completed, smiling seniors and residents with wheelchairs and assistive devices were a common sight. The new Bright Lights Windsor trackless train was a big success too, bringing long lines of kids and families and extending its hours on several nights.

The brand new W.E. Made it Artisanal Market was a huge hit for vendors and visitors alike. Craft and food vendors sold out on some nights, and additional evenings were added to meet the ongoing demand. Charity partners joined us on weekends and were very pleased with the community’s giving spirit, seen through donations and keen interest in their work.

Organizers say spinoff benefits to local businesses were significant as well, with nearby restaurants and stores enjoying a big bump in activity. Social media buzzed with accounts of out-of-town visitors coming to Windsor to enjoy the event, spending nights in our hotels and visiting our local shops along the way. “The amount of people that have told me they are here to see the Bright Lights amazes me. London, Chatham area, etc. … they eat, sleep and shop here,” said one local restaurant server.

Reviews glowed again in person and on social media, with the increased activities and expanded footprint resonating with visitors of all ages. In keeping with the tradition born last year, the event was once again popular not only with today’s families but with families yet to come, as engagement photos in our wildly popular illuminated bulbs were abundant. A search for #BrightLightsWindsor on social media can attest: people love to be in love at Jackson Park!

“Was one of the best days of my life on the 16th.” “We went tonight and LOVED it. Thank you Windsor for an awesome family evening.” “Awesome display, thank you Windsor … well worth the drive.” These are just a few visitor comments that arrived by the hundreds on social media.

“The community can’t wait (and neither can we) to see what Bright Lights Windsor has in store for next year!” said Mayor Dilkens. “Thank you to everyone who helped make it happen and to everyone who visited us from near and far: it was truly magical, and we owe it all to you!”