Find out where and when to make merry memories during this highlight of the holiday season in Niagara Falls.
There’s extra magic in the air in Niagara Falls during the holidays, and that’s thanks in no small part to the fun and festivities of Jingle Falls USA! This year, Jingle Falls is scheduled for November 24-26, 2023.
Whether you prefer classic, Hallmark-esque holiday happenings or more whimsical winter activities, Jingle Falls USA has something for everyone.
For Families:
Spend a Saturday afternoon (or several!) with the entire family and make merry memories in downtown Niagara Falls, New York. With crafts, candy cane train rides, and classic characters, your kids will feel like they stepped into a holiday wonderland.
Begin your afternoon at Cave of the Winds Pavilion in Niagara Falls State Park, where you can make Christmas cards, participate in a variety of crafts, and meet Santa Claus, along with seeing the Falls themselves! (All Dates: 11:30am-2:30pm)
Once you’ve explored Niagara Falls State Park, take a loop or two on the Candy Cane Express on Old Falls Street. This complimentary train ride seats 18 people, so there’s room for the entire family. (December 10: 1-7pm)
Don’t leave Old Falls Street without meeting some of your favorite Christmas characters. Reserve your spot on the nice list and meet one of Santa’s elves, or, if you’re feeling naughty, hang out with The Grinch! (December 3: 4-6pm). Disney fans will delight in meeting Elsa, Anna and Kristoff from Frozen, as well. (November 26: 2-4pm)
For Couples:
Looking for the perfect holi-date? We’ve got you covered. Start your day on a productive note at the LiveNF Makers Market, held at the Niagara Falls Convention Center. Here, you can browse over 80 local artisans and vendors, and check off some of the gifts on your list! (November 26: 11am-4pm)
After you’ve finished shopping, head outside to Old Falls Street and hop aboard a horse and carriage ride. As the horse and carriage clip-clops along the cobblestones, cozy up and take in all of the lights and decorations that deck the street. (November 26: 1-6pm, December 3: 1-4pm, December 10: 1-6pm)
Speaking of twinkling lights, you can end your date with Old Falls Street’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Take your place near the tree at dusk and watch as the 26-foot tree is illuminated, followed closely by fireworks and fire performances. (November 26: 6pm)
For the Adventurous:
For those itching to get out and get active, register for the 5th Annual Santa Dash 5k! Begin at the Sheraton Niagara Falls and run through the downtown area. After the race, stick around Old Falls Street for a variety of festive fun. (December 10: 9am)
Another outdoor option: get wowed by the snowy scenery of Niagara Falls State Park during a Winter Wonderland Walk! Registration for these guided hikes is encouraged via phone: 716-282-5154. Can’t make it to the Jingle Falls Winter Wonderland Walks? There are still plenty of other free guided winter hikes in Niagara Falls USA. (December 3 & 10: 1-2pm)
If you’re feeling extra bold, stop by the Christmas Workshop Paintball Gallery on Old Falls Street, where you’ll help the elves paint toys in Santa’s workshop. (November 26: 1-5pm, December 3: 1-6pm)
For Animal Lovers:
The holiday season is all about warm, fuzzy feelings… and Jingle Falls USA takes that literally! Pet a variety of furry friends at Old Falls Street’s petting zoo, including Jacob sheep, miniature goats, miniature cows, alpacas, bunnies and silky chickens. (December 3: 1-6pm)
Also on Old Falls Street, meet alpacas (November 26 & December 10: 12-4pm), huskies (December 10: 12-4pm), and Santa’s reindeer! (December 10: 2-6pm)
For Food and Drink Enthusiasts:
Step into a sweet setup at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute‘s annual Gingerbread Wonderland! See life-sized gingerbread displays and enjoy face painting, live music, crafts and more. (All Dates: 11am-7pm)
Sip and stroll through a variety of bars in downtown Niagara Falls during the Jingle Falls USA Santa Con. Enjoy drink specials, snacks, and, of course, Santa costumes. (December 10: 4-10pm)
There will be live holiday music, food, fire pits, outdoor games and Christmas card-worthy photo ops on Old Falls Street throughout Jingle Falls USA! For the full Jingle Falls schedule, click here.
