This past weekend was a busy and magical one in Blenheim and the surrounding area, with multiple signature events and several smaller ones all coming together to create a weekend of wonder and fun for people of all ages.

Kicking off the Blenheim Santa Claus Parade

The festivities kicked off on the evening of Friday, December 5, 2025, with the Blenheim Santa Claus Parade. From farm to family, to businesses and community organizations, the event featured approximately 75 floats that showcased the diversity of life in the region. Thousands lined the streets to take in the show and cheer on the parade entries, including the main attraction: Santa Claus!

Immediately following the parade, Santa made his was to Talbot Trail Place park in downtown Blenheim to flip the switch and officially launch the Festival of Lights to an excited audience. The light display, set to music and narration, will run the entire month of December, with shows at 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 p.m. every night.

Kids in the Secret Shopping Experience being helped by an elf

On Saturday, the Festival of Lights Christmas Market welcomed the community with a variety of vendors, music, and festive magic. Visitors from Blenheim and beyond, including some who travelled several hours, enjoyed great shopping and the vibrant holiday spirit. A highlight of the market was the Children’s Secret Shopping Experience run by the Blenheim Youth Centre. Kids enjoyed a safe, guided shopping area where they could find reasonably priced gifts for friends and family, while their loved ones relaxed in a waiting area. Afterward, families could head over to watch the light show and enjoy the brilliant display.

Sunday rounded out the weekend with three local events for people to enjoy: Caroling in the Park in beautiful downtown Blenheim, the Erieau Christmas Market, and the Red Barn Holiday Market, giving visitors even more festive experiences to choose from.

While the weekend has drawn to a close, the fun and festive spirit is still going strong. Downtown businesses invite you to visit for amazing local shopping, filled with the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. There continue to be local events and activities happening throughout the season. Follow the Blenheim BIA on social media for updates. Thank you, and have a wonderful holiday season!

Thanking the Volunteers

On behalf of the Festival of Lights committee, we extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the individuals, businesses, and organizations who made these incredible community events possible.

The Blenheim Christmas Parade and the Festival of Lights Christmas Market were a tremendous success and it takes a dedicated team of volunteers, partners, and supporters working together to bring these experiences to life.

Thank you!!