Festivals | Kawartha Conservation

At Kawartha Conservation, we believe in bringing the community together to celebrate the beauty of nature and the joy of the seasons. Each year, we host two signature events - Christmas at Ken Reid and the Annual Fall Festival - both designed to create memorable experiences for individuals and families alike.

These free, family-friendly festivals are our way of giving back to the community, offering a chance to connect with others, enjoy the great outdoors, and celebrate the changing seasons. Whether you're sipping hot cocoa amidst twinkling holiday lights at Ken Reid Conservation Area or enjoying the crisp autumn air at our Fall Festival, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Join us for these special occasions and make lasting memories with family, friends, and neighbors—all while celebrating the natural beauty of the Kawartha region.

Important Parking Information for Christmas at Ken Reid

On-site parking at Christmas at Ken Reid is limited to 100 spaces, which must be pre-purchased in advance for $20.00 per car (HST included). No day-of onsite parking will be available. Tickets are non-refundable and sold on a first-come, first-served basis through the event website.

For all other attendees, we’ve made it easy and stress-free to get to the event! Enjoy our convenient off-site parking options with free shuttle buses running all day from multiple pick-up locations in Lindsay.

Secure your parking for Christmas at Ken Reid here.

Stay tuned for shuttle schedules and locations, and secure your spot early to avoid disappointment!

Get Ready for

Christmas at Ken Reid

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7, 2024 for the return of Christmas at Ken Reid. This is a FREE family event that is offered at Ken Reid Conservation Area each year on the first Saturday in December.

Enjoy a day full of free family activities (donations welcomed) including:

Horse-drawn Wagon Rides
Kids Crafts at Santa’s Workshop
Grinch-Guided Christmas Story Walk
Visits with Santa Claus
Live entertainment, including the Royal Canadian Falconry Birds of Prey show and a carving demonstration by SAW Woodworks

Explore our Vendors Market featuring favorites like Gangster Cheese, Muster Point, and more!

Join us from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for festive fun the whole family will love!

Activities are free to families and visitors (donations are appreciated and welcomed) and include horse drawn wagon rides, Christmas scavenger hunt, kids craft corner, Christmas story walks, visits with Santa Claus, musical entertainment, and much more.

If you would like to become a sponsor for Christmas at Ken Reid, and help support this free family event, email Melissa Alexander Creasy.

If you would like to Donate to Christmas at Ken Reid, you can do so by visiting our Donation page.

The Illuminated Forest

The Illunminated Forest at night with white lights on the trees illuminating the trail

Step into a realm of pure enchantment as you explore The Illuminated Forest at Ken Reid Conservation Area this December. This captivating trail, adorned by thousands of twinkling white lights, transforms the natural beauty of the forest into a magical experience.

Open nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. throughout the month of December, this illuminated pathway offers a truly wonderful experience that transcends the ordinary. Wander beneath the canopy of trees, among the shimmering cascade of white lights, creating a winter dreamscape that will leave you in awe.

Whether you're seeking a serene evening stroll or a festive adventure with family and friends, The Illuminated Forest promises a luminous journey through nature's wonder. And the best part? Parking is available for just $4, and admission to this radiant display is entirely free.

Come and immerse yourself in the breathtaking allure of The Illuminated Forest, where the delicate glow of lights transforms Ken Reid Conservation Area into a winter paradise like no other.

Kawartha Fall Festival

Each fall, Ken Reid Conservation Area transforms into a vibrant celebration of the season during the Annual Kawartha Fall Festival. This beloved event has become a cherished tradition, offering something for everyone to enjoy amidst the beauty of autumn.

This free, family-friendly festival showcases a mix of exciting activities, engaging demonstrations, and nature-inspired experiences. Visitors can look forward to live entertainment, seasonal crafts, interactive exhibits, and plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors. From local vendors to hands-on activities for kids, the Kawartha Fall Festival brings the community together to celebrate the best of fall.

Mark your calendars and join us as we embrace the colors, sights, and sounds of the season. Whether it’s your first visit or part of your annual tradition, the Kawartha Fall Festival is the perfect way to make unforgettable autumn memories. 🍁

Community Sponsorship Program

At Kawartha Conservation, we are driven by a vision that resonates deeply with our core values: 'Engaged communities that love, respect, and appreciate our natural environment.' It is this guiding principle that brings to life our annual, community-centric events - the Kawartha Fall Festival and Christmas at Ken Reid. These gatherings are not just events; they are a manifestation of our shared commitment to fostering a deep connection with nature, celebrating our environmental heritage, and building a strong, united community.

However, transforming this vision into reality comes with its own set of challenges. While we are dedicated to offering these events free of charge, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all, the financial and logistical demands are substantial. This is where we invite you, our potential sponsors, donors, and business partners, to join us in this noble endeavor. Your support can help sustain the magic of these events, enhance their reach and impact, and ensure they continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for everyone involved.

Imagine your contribution sparking joy in children's eyes, promoting a sense of belonging among community members, and heightening awareness of our precious natural environment. By supporting these events, you're not just funding activities; you're investing in the heart and soul of our community, nurturing a legacy of environmental appreciation and harmony.

We encourage you to be part of this transformative journey. Whether through sponsorship or donations, your contribution will be pivotal in enriching our community's cultural fabric and environmental consciousness. For more details on how you can make a difference, please contact Melissa Alexander Creasy. Together, let's turn our vision into a living, breathing reality for everyone to cherish.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to contribute to something truly special. Let's join hands in making the Kawartha Fall Festival and Christmas at Ken Reid symbols of our collective love, respect, and appreciation for our natural world.

Why not make a weekend of it?

Why not make a weekend in the Kawarthas of it, and use our discount promo code to stay at Days Inn and Suites by Wyndham Lindsay.

Call the hotel at 705-328.0100 and mention Ken Reid Conservation Area, or use Promo Code:

1000068806 at www.wyndhamhotels.com to get your special rate.

An image of trees with a 10% off code for Days Inn