Event Details
Winter Light Festival at Nikka Yuko Japanese GardenCelebrating 10 Years of Lights and Friendship!
Dates: November 28 – February 28
December: Wednesday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (8:30 PM last entry)
January & February: Thursday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (8:30 PM last entry)
Experience winter magic at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden as the garden transforms into a glowing dreamscape of lights, lanterns, and warmth. Stroll through illuminated pathways, discover shimmering installations inspired by Japanese design.
Inside the Bunka Centre, warm up with seasonal treats, explore cultural activities, and browse unique items in the gift shop. Outdoor fire pits, photo spots, and special programming on select nights make this festival one of Lethbridge’s must-see winter traditions.
Highlights include:
Thousands of brilliant lights across the garden
Japanese cultural experiences and activities
Family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for all ages
Whether you’re returning for your annual tradition or visiting for the first time, the Winter Light Festival promises a magical evening you’ll remember all season long.
Tickets: Available online at Showpass or at the Bunka Centre during open hours.
Meet the Organizer
Established in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s Centennial, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden stands as a tribute to the contributions of Japanese Canadians to Lethbridge, Alberta, and as a lasting symbol of international friendship. The name “Nikka Yuko” blends elements of both Japanese and English: Ni (from Nihon, meaning Japan), Ka (from Canada), and Yuko (meaning friendship), representing the deep connection between the two nations.
Opening Day and Hours
Opening day for 2025 is Thursday, May 8th.
The garden is open five (5) days a week:
- Monday: 10-6pm
- Tuesday/Wednesday CLOSED
- Thursday: 10-6 pm
- Fridays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
- Saturdays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
- Sunday: 10-6 pm
Daily Programming
- Daily Garden Tours at 11, 1 & 3 pm
- Thursday: Tea: 2 pm & 4 pm Pavilion/Ceremony (Program)
- Friday: Food Truck Fridays/Sumo/Anime/Wild Nights; Ceremonies 2pm & 4pm
- Saturday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program)
- Sunday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program)
- Monday: Meiso (Relaxation) Mondays
Performances and Presentations: 3:00 pm
Yukata Dressing:
Guests can wear Yukata around the Garden and community 5 days per week.
📅 Date & Time: November 29, 2025 5:00 pm
📅 Ends: February 28, 2026 8:30 pm
📍 Location:
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Event Details
Winter Light Festival at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden
Celebrating 10 Years of Lights and Friendship!
Dates: November 28 – February 28
December: Wednesday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (8:30 PM last entry)
January & February: Thursday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (8:30 PM last entry)
Experience winter magic at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden as the garden transforms into a glowing dreamscape of lights, lanterns, and warmth. Stroll through illuminated pathways, discover shimmering installations inspired by Japanese design.
Inside the Bunka Centre, warm up with seasonal treats, explore cultural activities, and browse unique items in the gift shop. Outdoor fire pits, photo spots, and special programming on select nights make this festival one of Lethbridge’s must-see winter traditions.
Highlights include:
Thousands of brilliant lights across the garden
Japanese cultural experiences and activities
Family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for all ages
Whether you’re returning for your annual tradition or visiting for the first time, the Winter Light Festival promises a magical evening you’ll remember all season long.
Tickets: Available online at Showpass or at the Bunka Centre during open hours.
📅 Date & Time: November 29, 2025 5:00 pm
📅 Ends: February 28, 2026 8:30 pm
📍 Location: Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr S, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K 0C6, Canada
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Organizer
Established in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s Centennial, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden stands as a tribute to the contributions of Japanese Canadians to Lethbridge, Alberta, and as a lasting symbol of international friendship. The name “Nikka Yuko” blends elements of both Japanese and English: Ni (from Nihon, meaning Japan), Ka (from Canada), and Yuko (meaning friendship), representing the deep connection between the two nations.
Opening Day and Hours
Opening day for 2025 is Thursday, May 8th.
The garden is open five (5) days a week:
- Monday: 10-6pm
- Tuesday/Wednesday CLOSED
- Thursday: 10-6 pm
- Fridays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
- Saturdays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
- Sunday: 10-6 pm
Daily Programming
- Daily Garden Tours at 11, 1 & 3 pm
- Thursday: Tea: 2 pm & 4 pm Pavilion/Ceremony (Program)
- Friday: Food Truck Fridays/Sumo/Anime/Wild Nights; Ceremonies 2pm & 4pm
- Saturday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program)
- Sunday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program)
- Monday: Meiso (Relaxation) Mondays
Performances and Presentations: 3:00 pm
Yukata Dressing:
Guests can wear Yukata around the Garden and community 5 days per week.