Festivals

The winter magic returns this season as Kawartha Conservation’s Illuminated Forest once again transforms the front trails of Ken Reid Conservation Area into a glowing, white-light wonderland. From Friday, December 12 through Sunday, December 28, visitors are invited to wander beneath the shimmering canopy, take in the peaceful glow of the forest, and enjoy an inspiring seasonal experience with family and friends.

New for 2025: Free Transit to Ken Reid Conservation Area

To help even more residents enjoy the Illuminated Forest, Kawartha Conservation and the City of Kawartha Lakes are partnering to provide free public transit from Lindsay to Ken Reid Conservation Area on:

• Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13
• Friday and Saturday, December 19 and 20

Visitors taking the City’s public transit can enjoy the event at no cost, with only the regular $4 per vehicle parking fee applying to those driving.

Transit Schedule

Lindsay (Canadian Tire Rear Parking Lot) to Ken Reid Conservation Area
4:30 p.m. – First departure

• 5:30 p.m.
• 6:30 p.m.
• 7:30 p.m. - Last Departure

From Ken Reid to Canadian Tire (Rear Parking Lot)

• 5:00 p.m.
• 6:00 p.m.
• 7:00 p.m.
• 8:30 p.m. – Final departure
• Arrives at Canadian Tire (Rear Parking Lot) at 9:00 p.m.
  Location & Parking

This year’s Illuminated Forest will take place at the front of Ken Reid Conservation Area, with parking available in both the main dog park parking lot and the Administration Building parking lot, as needed.

• Illuminated Forest admission: Free
• Parking: $4 per vehicle, or free for transit riders

Donations

If you and your family have enjoyed the Illuminated Forest in previous years or would like to see it continue as a local holiday tradition, please consider donating to ensure Kawartha Conservation can continue to support community events, such as the Illuminated Forest.

Donate Here

Christmas at Ken Reid was an overwhelming success, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make the day so special. Thank you to our sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and all of the families and visitors who joined us for a memorable community celebration.

Stay tuned for details about Christmas at Ken Reid 2026.

If you would like to Donate to Christmas at Ken Reid 2026, you can do so by visiting our Donation page. Or reach out to Carolyn Snider at csnider@kawarthaconservation.com, or phone 705.328.2271 ext. 212.