First Light

Evenings November 23-25, November 30 and December 1-2 & 7-9, 2017
5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.  

Admission $10.00 per person, with a donation of a non-perishable item, 

Kids under 5 are FREE! 

Fireworks are Thursday Evenings at 7:00pm Only 

Now in its 18th year, Sainte-Marie’s “First Light” is a must-see event with a great line-up of family activities and performers, all amidst the spectacular glow of over 5,000 candles.

The magic begins when visitors approach the candlelit historic site, as a beautiful amber glow illuminates the famous 17th-century mission.  Visitors can stroll the candlelit paths which lead to a variety of fun family activities.
The cookhouse is filled with the sights and smells of delicious baked goods and cookie samples available for tasting. Historic blacksmithing will also be demonstrated, and a Nativity crèche will be on display in the stables near the Farmer’s Dwelling. Always popular with little folks, corn husk doll making will be offered in the Sainte-Marie foyer.

“First Light” has strong ties to community groups, and many will be involved in this year’s celebration, offering special “hands-on” children’s crafts and historic demonstrations. An abundance of music will also fill the air, including Native drumming and singing, lively Franco-Ontarian folksongs, and delightful community and school choirs performing seasonal music over the nine evenings.

For some early holiday shopping, 20 exceptional artisans will be in the Sainte-Marie museum, and the themed Sainte-Marie gift shop will be open each night.

Please be advised that with the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed on the historic site for this event.

Special First Light Event Package!
Illuminating History!

Stay tuned for the 2017 First Light Package