Don’t forget to check out your local libraries (Idea Exchange, KPL, WPL, RWL) and museums for fun programs and events, and there’s always our region’s parks and trails.
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.
November 4th – Dance Mix Y2K: Vol. 1
Grab your closest peeps and join us at THEMUSEUM for a poppin’ night of nostalgia! Featuring a music video dance, hosted by DJ J Hillis, of your favourite 2000s songs! You can also enjoy throwback activities, wicked 2000s trivia, games & prizes! Cash bar and snacks available. Tickets are non-refundable. 19 + event.
November 6th – Clocks change! Fall Back one hour at 2am
November 11th – Remembrance Day
November 12th to 13th – The Etsy Market
Join us, with all your enthusiasm, for our FIRST two-day show! Featuring more than 75+ makers over the weekend! We’ll also have raffle draws, all the festive feels, and smiles from ear to ear.
November 12th to 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.
November 12th to 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.
November 16th to 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.
November 17th to 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.
November 17th to 20th and November 24th to 27th – St. Jacobs Sparkles
Join us for our annual holiday shopping event amid thousands of twinkling lights in the village – a true holiday experience! Shop into the evening on select nights and take in the holiday festivities and entertainment!
November 19th – Cambridge Santa Claus Parade
Since 1972, the City of Cambridge has been welcoming Santa and the holiday season. Our parade is one of the few in Ontario to be held at night-time, giving everyone involved the opportunity to light up their entries and make the parade sparkle.
November 19th – KW Santa Claus Parade
Join in the spirit of the season, delight in the Santa Run that starts at 9:45am, bring your letters to Santa for Canada Post to deliver, donate to the Food Bank of Waterloo, and help your local Firefighters collecting for the Knights of Columbus’ Toy Drive!
November 25th – Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night
A modern twist on caroling, all ages can enjoy walking through downtown Cambridge with thousands of participants. Over 30 light installations will be illuminated along the route for attendees to enjoy and interact with at your leisure.
November 26th – Ayr Santa Claus Parade
The Ayr-North Dumfries Club is pleased to once again host a traditional Santa Claus Parade. More details to follow…stay tuned!
November 26th to 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!
November 26th to 27th – Paw-Liday Festival
The festival is for dog owners, dog lovers, families, and community members alike. There will be opportunities to shop for the holidays at unique, hand-selected, hyper-local businesses. Expect a diverse offering of food, drink and entertainment for all ages with a festive flare.
November 30th – CP Holiday Train
The CP Holiday Train is happy to be back for its 24th year supporting food banks and food shelves across our network by raising money, food and awareness for food insecurity issues.