The holiday season is here and we know you are busy. There are trees to cut, gifts to buy, holiday parties to attend and lists to check ... twice. That is why we've rounded up our very own favorite and MUST-SEE Holiday & Christmas Season events taking place in Ontario's cottage country and central and northern Ontario .
In between the hustle and bustle of holiday cheer experience a new, or continue a long standing holiday tradition with loved ones. Discover the glow of the holiday season north of Toronto.
1. First Light at Sainte Marie among the Hurons
5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Now in its 17th year, Sainte-Marie’s “First Light” is a must-see event with a great line-up of family activities and performers, all amidst the spectacular glow of over 5,000 candles.
The magic begins when visitors approach the candlelit historic site, as a beautiful amber glow illuminates the famous 17th-century mission. A colourful historic encampment will greet visitors, set up by the popular “Survival In The Bush” group. Visitors can then stroll the candlelit paths which lead to a variety of fun family activities.
Find more info: First Light
Find more info: Midland Tourism
Alliston
Santa! I know him! We all love him. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, Santa Claus parades are the perfect family outing in November and early December. Excitement, joy and holiday spirit will have your family creating memories and having a wonderful time this season.
Find more info: Santa Claus Parades
Casino Rama Resort, December 1 & 2, 2016
The 4 stars from the original cast of the Broadway smash Jersey Boys, have blended iconic rock ‘n roll hits of the 1960’s with the all-time greatest Holiday classics adding their trademark sound to the mix. Favorites such as “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts),”“Baby, Please Come Home,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “California Dreamin” and “All I Want For Christmas Is You” will be performed with the group’s dynamic choreography, electrifying rock ‘n roll arrangements, and of course, signature four-part harmony.
The Midtown Men is not a performance of and not affiliated with the show Jersey Boys.
2. Sugar Plum Fairy Craft Show at Nottawasaga Inn Resort
Alliston
The highly anticipated 33rd Annual Sugar Plum Fair is taking place on Saturday, November 12, 2016 (9am-5pm) and Sunday, November 13, 2016 (10am-4pm)
Whether you’re a return or first time visitor you will experience a treat at this year’s show. We’re excited to welcome back some incredible vendors and introduce a line-up of new and talented crafters and artisans who will be displaying their creations during the two day show. The show features over 120 vendors from across Ontario selling a variety of items including chocolate, jam, fudge, sauces, quilts, candles, ceramics, stained glass, wreaths, folk art, woodwork, sewing, knitting, body care products and more! Santa will also be stopping by for a visit.
Once again this year we will be raffling off gingerbread houses, which have been decorated by the resort staff, in support of a local charity.
Whether you’re a return or first time visitor you will experience a treat at this year’s show. We’re excited to welcome back some incredible vendors and introduce a line-up of new and talented crafters and artisans who will be displaying their creations during the two day show. The show features over 120 vendors from across Ontario selling a variety of items including chocolate, jam, fudge, sauces, quilts, candles, ceramics, stained glass, wreaths, folk art, woodwork, sewing, knitting, body care products and more! Santa will also be stopping by for a visit.
Once again this year we will be raffling off gingerbread houses, which have been decorated by the resort staff, in support of a local charity.
Find more info: Sugar Plum Fair Craft Show
3. Santa Claus Parades and other Santa/Christmas Events
Santa! I know him! We all love him. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, Santa Claus parades are the perfect family outing in November and early December. Excitement, joy and holiday spirit will have your family creating memories and having a wonderful time this season.
Find more info: Santa Claus Parades
4. Midtown Med Holiday Show (18+ venue) at Casino Rama Resort
Casino Rama Resort, December 1 & 2, 2016
The 4 stars from the original cast of the Broadway smash Jersey Boys, have blended iconic rock ‘n roll hits of the 1960’s with the all-time greatest Holiday classics adding their trademark sound to the mix. Favorites such as “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts),”“Baby, Please Come Home,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “California Dreamin” and “All I Want For Christmas Is You” will be performed with the group’s dynamic choreography, electrifying rock ‘n roll arrangements, and of course, signature four-part harmony.
The Midtown Men is not a performance of and not affiliated with the show Jersey Boys.
Find more info: The Midtown Men Holiday Show
Find more info: Ontario's Lake Country
A farmers' market or a small town holiday fair bazaar are truly the best spots to find that perfect unique hand made gift. Whether you like food, art, decor or clothing you'll find thoughtful gifts that no big box store can match.
Find more info: Holiday Markets and Bazaars
5. Holiday Shopping - Artisan Craft Shows & Christmas Markets
A farmers' market or a small town holiday fair bazaar are truly the best spots to find that perfect unique hand made gift. Whether you like food, art, decor or clothing you'll find thoughtful gifts that no big box store can match.
Find more info: Holiday Markets and Bazaars
6. Santafest at Santa's Village
Santa's Village, Bracebridge
SantaFest Winter Edition 2016 - December 10, 11, 17, 18 and 23
Our annual Thank You Santa days will be held on December 28 and 29.
Join us for a fun filled Winter
Edition of SantaFest - with some of Santa's favourite winter activities like
Gingerbread cookie decorating, a petting farm, colouring and crafts,
marshmallow roasting and who could forget - a visit with Santa!!
New in 2016 - a spectacular light
display highlighting the natural beauty of our park!
Find more info: SantaFest
Find more info: Muskoka Tourism
December 2, 2016 - Januray 8, 2017 at Blue Mountain Village
Creating lasting memories at Blue Mountain this holiday season as the Village comes alive with Jingles & Joy. Thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and family-friendly entertainment make the perfect backdrop to shop, dine, and play.
Find more info: Jingles & Joy
Find more info: Blue Mountain Village
Find more holiday fun on our website, particularly:
More Events
Christmas & New Years Eve Getaway Packages
Winter Activity Getaways
Find more info: Muskoka Tourism
7. Jingles & Joy at Blue Mountain Village
Creating lasting memories at Blue Mountain this holiday season as the Village comes alive with Jingles & Joy. Thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and family-friendly entertainment make the perfect backdrop to shop, dine, and play.
Find more info: Jingles & Joy
Find more info: Blue Mountain Village
Find more holiday fun on our website, particularly:
More Events
Christmas & New Years Eve Getaway Packages
Winter Activity Getaways
