Don’t forget to check out your local libraries (Idea Exchange, KPL, WPL, RWL) and museums for fun programs and events.
Are you getting a head start on your holiday shopping? ToDo Canada has a list of Christmas Markets & Holiday Craft Fairs in and around Waterloo Region – do check back often as the list will be updated.
December 1st – Moonlight Madness in Elmira
Ice carving, fire barrels, live music, shopping, and tree lighting!
December 1st to 4th – Christkindl Market
For 4 days in December, the streets of Kitchener transform into a traditional festival of Christmas that dates back 700 years. This event recreates the sights, sounds, smells and spirit of the Christmas festivals found across Germany.
December 2nd – Music and Lights in the Village
Gather in Hespeler Village to celebrate the festive holiday season. Holiday lights, tree lighting, food, musical entertainment, crafts and more!
December 2nd – Holiday Sip’N Shop Night Market
Come and enjoy the wonders of the Night Market with your friends, family, or special someone this holiday season!
December 2nd to 4th – Uptown Waterloo Winter Wonderland
Enter a season of wonder with a variety of activities and events including the Tree Lighting Ceremony, a new Holiday Pop-Up Art Market and SO much more!
December 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th – Lantern Lit Stroll at Doon Heritage Village
Step back in time to experience Christmas in the early 20th century. Enjoy the sights and sounds of decorated historic homes and shops, crackling bonfires and Christmas carols. Indulge in freshly made Christmas goodies and warm apple cider as you stroll the night away in the unique ambiance of a lantern-lit historic village.
December 3rd – 42nd Hespeler Santa Claus Parade
Get ready to take in the sights, sounds and excitement of the holidays with this annual family tradition. Watch for parade route details!
December 3rd, 10th, 17th – Kitchener Winter Artisan Market
Some of the best artisan vendors in the region, delicious food and drink, outdoor curling rink, live music, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus!
December 4th – New Hamburg Santa Claus Parade
December 9th – Christmas Tyme in Wellesley
Live Nativity, Christmas Parade, Tree of Light and Caroling!
December 10th – Community Carol Sing
Bring your flashlights and your singing voices to Centennial Park, all are welcome! “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”
December 10th to 11th – Cambridge Christmas Market
This award winning Christmas market has grown exponentially since its inception in 2012 and this year will offer almost 60 local artisans, crafters and makers.
December 31st – New Year’s Eve
Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo
Until December 18th – Waterloo Central Railway Vintage Christmas Trains
Ring in your Christmas Adventures with Carolers and Stories of the past. Take a Magical Journey with us in our delightfully themed fun filled Christmas Story Experience. Santa, the elves and the prancing reindeer await your visit at the North Pole.
Until December 31st – Gift of Lights
Gift of Lights is a family-friendly drive-thru holiday light display with two tunnels and over 300 animated and static light displays! Enjoy this holiday spectacle from inside the comfort of your own vehicle.
Until January 1st – Winter Ice and Lights
Take a walk through the beautiful light displays in Central Park in Preston during the month of December. On Thursday December 8, experience the lights in Central Park while enjoying the live concert and special visits from Santa, Mrs. Clause and Willy Melt.
Until January 1st – Wonders of Winter
Enjoy the sparkle of the lights and the excitement of the holiday season at Wonders of Winter in Waterloo Park. Stroll through over 100 colourful, fun displays designed with over 100,000 light bulbs!
Until January 7th – Jingle Bell Rock
Experience the magic and delight of Jingle Bell Rock. Wander through outdoor displays of dazzling light features surrounding a 40 foot dancing tree illumination, sequenced to contemporary holiday music. Take in spectacular walking tunnels, sparkling lighting decorations and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Relax at the open fire pits with some s’mores, decorate cookies in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen or listen to live entertainment on featured nights.
Until January 8th – Christmas at the Castle
The table is set, the trees are trimmed, and the warmth and charm will kindle your holiday spirit. This is the best time of year to visit the 1877 home and marvel at the lavish décor adorned in festive attire. Visiting Castle Kilbride National Historic Site is truly a magical time.