Barrie, ON – Barrie’s most magical night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, November 15, Downtown Barrie transforms into a festive wonderland for the annual Noella Tree Lighting Celebration — a heartwarming evening of music, lights, community, and holiday cheer.

Presented by the Downtown Barrie BIA, in collaboration with the Barrie Chamber of Commerce Santa Claus Parade, the Rotary Club of Barrie’s Festival of Trees, and the City of Barrie’s fireworks and event support, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

So bundle up, grab your mittens, and follow this easy guide for a night full of fun, lights, and festive magic!

3:00 PM – Festivities Begin at Meridian Place:

The celebration starts early with live performances from local talents Burke Erwin, Sammy, and Francesca Panetta, filling the air with holiday tunes and good vibes.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a hot chocolate and explore the downtown lights before the Santa Claus Parade rolls in!

5:00 PM – Santa Claus Parade Arrives:

The Barrie Chamber of Commerce Santa Claus Parade winds its way into Downtown Barrie, led by Choir Revolution — bringing joyful sing-alongs and holiday spirit to every corner of the route.
Best viewing spots: Along Dunlop Street and Meridian Place for the big arrival of Santa!

All Afternoon – Holiday Fun for the Whole Family:

 – Free Hot Chocolate! Thanks to local Tim Hortons franchise owners, visitors can warm up with a complimentary cup of hot chocolate by donating a non-perishable food item to the Barrie Food Bank or a toy to the Rock 95/KoolFM Toy Drive.

 – Kids’ Inflatables: Also sponsored by Tim Hortons, these family favourites will keep the little ones entertained all afternoon.

 – Kids’ Warming Tent: Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Barrie, families can enjoy hands-on art activities led by local artists, make ornaments for the Festive Tree in Meridian Place, and take part in crafts and creative fun all evening long.

Tip: Don’t forget to hang your handmade ornament on the tree before it lights up the night!

6:30pm – Tree Lighting & Fireworks Finale:

As Santa helps light the Downtown Barrie Christmas Tree, the night sky will erupt in a spectacular fireworks display over Kempenfelt Bay and Heritage Park.

Best Viewing Spot: Meridian Place — where the lights, music, and community spirit all come together for the perfect holiday moment.

6:45 PM – Headliner: Shake Your Money Maker – The Black Crowes Tribute:

Get ready to rock around the Christmas tree! Shake Your Money Maker, a powerhouse tribute band of local musicians, takes the Meridian Place Stage with their high-energy renditions of classic hits like Jealous Again and She Talks to Angels.

Tip: Bring your dancing shoes (and maybe a warm blanket) — this is one holiday concert you won’t want to miss.

Make It a Weekend to Remember:

Stick around Downtown Barrie to explore the Rotary Club of Barrie’s Festival of Trees along the waterfront, grab a bite at one of the cozy restaurants, and take in the glow of holiday lights all weekend long.

Because when the lights shine, the music plays, and the community gathers — Downtown Barrie truly comes alive.

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