Annual
Candlelight Walk
in the Maitland Woods
Embark on a captivating journey as the Maitland Woods Trail is transformed into a glittering forest. The trail will come alive with the flickering of over a hundred candles, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere complemented by artful lantern installations hidden throughout the woods.
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Join us for a magical evening and an enchanted forest experience!
The Maitland Trail Association is excited to host this family-friendly event as part of Goderich Winterfest (exploregoderich.ca).
If you have a candle lantern, whether handmade or store-bought, bring it along and help light up the trail!
NEW FOR 2025
EXTENDED HOURS
CHANGED TO SATURDAY NIGHT - ON FAMILY DAY WEEKEND
DATE: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2025
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TIME: Participants may start at the Trail Entrance any time between 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm (trail closes at 9:00 pm)
TRAIL DISTANCE: 1.5 KM
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LOCATION: Maitland Woods behind Columbus Centre, 390 Parsons Court, Goderich. Participants will set out from the trail entrance at the southwest end of the Columbus Centre parking lot.
VOLUNTEERS: If you’d like to help light candles or assist with other aspects of this event, including lantern workshops, please contact Con Melady at 519-524-8730. About 30 volunteers are needed for this event.
REFRESHMENTS: Available at the Columbus Centre after the walk (donations welcomed)
WASHROOMS: Available at the Columbus Centre
DRESS: Trail surface and boardwalk conditions vary according to snow or ice accumulations. Dress warmly and appropriately for the weather, including winter footwear.
LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOP - 2025 date TBD
The unique lanterns lining the trail are the result of an MTA community art project.
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2025 Date TBD
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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Goderich Parks Shed
371 Parsons Court, Goderich
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Participant fee: $10
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This is a drop-in event.
Lantern building demonstrations will occur at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
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Make a lantern for the annual Candlelight Walk event happening during Goderich’s Winterfest weekend!
This is a great activity for the new or seasoned crafter. Materials are provided.
For workshop questions, contact Brian Cox at brianfcox@gmail.com
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This event is so rewarding – please consider participating this year!
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WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE CANDLELIGHT WALK!
ABOUT THE MAITLAND WOODS TRAIL
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The Maitland Woods is a wetland located within the town boundaries, situated on town-owned land. The trails are carefully maintained by volunteers from the Maitland Trail Association. For over 30 years, the MTA has proudly offered the unique experience of a candlelit winter walk, fostering a deeper appreciation of this woodland within the community. This increased awareness has been vital in securing the long-term health of the ecosystem. Encouraging residents to connect with this urban wetland is the first step in ensuring its protection for future generations. We invite everyone to get outside, walk, stay healthy and happy, and help preserve these special places in our community.
