Winter Happenings in Niagara USA

Despite Mother Nature’s attempts, little can be done to harness the beauty and power of Niagara Falls.

It only enhances it.

A stroll through Niagara Falls State Park is never as magical as it is during the winter months. The trees glisten with a misty shimmer, the mighty cataracts roar and more than 600,000 gallons of water per second flow over the brink into the icy Niagara River below.

During the winter, visitors can still experience an intimate view of Niagara Falls, as various viewing platforms remain open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The majestic Falls is the perfect start to any winter vacation to Niagara USA.

However, throughout the holiday season, there are numerous happenings across Niagara USA that will get families in the holiday spirit. From shopping at a premier outlet mall to meeting Marty the Zebra at Erways Christmas Tree Adventure, the region is complete with unique one-of-a-kind attractions during the winter season.

Here's a breakdown ov events taking place in the coming months:

Fatima Shrine Festival of Lights (Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Rd. Lewiston, N.Y. 14092 www.fatimashrine.com) Our Lady of Fatima Shrine is an awe-inspiring domed basilica and place of renewal and communal prayer to those who visit the unique buildings and grounds each year. During the holiday season, more than 75 displays, along with the beautifully illuminated basilica and nativity scene transform the shrine into a beautiful exhibit of light and color. Open daily from November 20 to January 2, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

Holiday Lights of Niagara Trail (Hyde Park, Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14303) The trail is a fun-filled activity for families looking to explore the Niagara Region and enjoy a beautiful display of holiday lights. Area businesses and homes will dress their properties with various lighted displays. In the City of Niagara Falls, Pine Avenue and Hyde Park will feature nearly 40 impressive displays. The illumination is held daily daily from November 23 to January 31, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Erways Christmas Tree Adventure (4202 Willow Rd. Wilson, N.Y. 14172) When it comes to holiday experiences, Erways is a horse of a different color. Visitors can feed and interact with wildlife including Marty the Zebra, elk, white-tail deer and other animals at the farms winter petting zoo. Complete with a 2,00-square-foot warming lodge and educational center, Erways is a great way to spend a winter day with the family. The farm is open daily from November 25 to December 24. Weekdays noon to 8 p.m., Saturday at Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Santa on a Carrousel- (Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, 180 Thompson St., North Tonawanda, NY 14120) Join Old St. Nick at the historic Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum for a day of fun-filled activities. Decorate your own stocking, make a holiday ornament, warm up with some hot chocolate and s’mores, or go for a ride on the 1916 carousel. The event is held November 26, December 3, 10 and 17 from noon to 3 p.m. 

The following series of events are being held at Old Fort Niagara (2 Scott Ave. Youngstown, N.Y. 14174, 716.745.7611, www.oldfortniagara.org)

The Castle by Candlelight (Dec 10 & 17, 2011) Tour the French Castle by candlelight, meet characters from the 18th century and see a grand feu de joie in honor of the holiday season.

Twelfth Night Ball (Jan 7, 2012) Celebrate the traditional end of the holiday season with 18th century country dancing, live period music, libations, food and merriment. 7:00 - 11:00 pm

Snowshoe Festival (Jan. 14, 2012) Experience the American frontier in winter. Accompany the troops on a snowshoe patrol, play the Hodenosaunee game of snow snakes, learn how our ancestors survived the winter without electricity and central heating.

Holiday Shopping Options 

Fashion Outlets Niagara Falls USA (1900 Military Rd. Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14304, 1.800.414.0475. www.fashionoutletsniagara.com) features more than 150 designer and top-brand name stores just five minutes from downtown Niagara Falls. Featuring stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Nike, Barney’s, Coach and more at up to 75 percent off retail prices, there are few better options when completing your holiday shopping.

Niagara Holiday Market: (Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14303, www.niagaramarket.com) With more than 80 unique merchants featuring their products in an outdoor, holiday themed spectacle, the Niagara Holiday Market is one of the regions premiers stops for shopping this holiday season.

Seneca Niagara Casino: (310 Fourth Street Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14303, 716.299.1100, www.senecaniagaracasino.com) From men's and women's apparel, jewelry and accessories to Native American art and high-end electronics, Seneca Niagara Casino and Hotel features premier retailers such as Yankee Candle, Swarovski and Watson’s Chocolates among others.

Falls Region Shopping:  In addition to premier retail shopping, major department stores such as Target, Wal-Mart, TJ Maxx and Hobby Lobby can all be found within a short drive of downtown Niagara Falls.

Lewiston Shops: (Center Street Lewiston, N.Y. 14092) From boutique clothing retailers to antiques and independently owned shops and art galleries, Center Street in the charming Village of Lewiston is a great stop on any shopping excursion in Niagara USA.

For more information on the events listed above, or to find additional events in Niagara USA visit www.niagara-usa.com or call 1.877.FALLS US