Looking to make the most of the holiday season in the SDG Counties? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these 15 festive activities will help you soak up the charm, tradition, and magic this region has to offer. From sparkling light displays to cozy winter markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Dive in and discover how to make this holiday season the best one yet!
Must attend events around SD&G Counties
This holiday season, the counties are buzzing with festive cheer, from charming Christmas markets to joyful musical performances that capture the holiday spirit. Be sure to kick off the celebrations with the CPKC Holiday Train, stopping in our very own town of Finch on its North American tour! Don’t miss live performances by Tyler Shaw and Shawnee Kish, making this a magical moment to remember.
Love holiday musical performances? You’re in luck! The counties are hosting four incredible shows this season, each offering a unique experience guaranteed to get your toes tapping. One highlight is the Upper Canada Playhouse’s production of Miracle on 34th Street, running from November 28th to December 15th on select nights. This timeless Christmas classic, paired with all your favorite holiday songs, is a must-see for the season! Music & Mayhem, Celtic Christmas Kitchen Party and Christmas in the Old Town are performances sure to make an unforgettable evening, be sure check out these Musical Performances!
Starting November 29th, the one-of-a-kind magical A light at Night Festival returns where over one million lights illuminate Upper Canada Village, creating a true winter wonderland! Experience the magic of the festival, where you can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, snap a photo with Santa, indulge in festive dining, and check off your holiday shopping list. End your evening on a high note with a dazzling ride aboard a life-sized train, beautifully illuminated as it glides through the village, bringing the holiday spirit to life!
On the hunt for the perfect holiday gift? Dive into our roundup of festive markets, where local artisans and creators showcase their talents. Whether it’s handmade clothing, beautiful pottery, original art, vintage finds, or delectable artisanal foods, you’re bound to discover something truly unique for every taste.
North Glengarry’s, Baby, Please come home shopping event is a great night out experience where you can tackle your shop-local list and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant! The Baby, Please Come Home event is a celebration of Alexandria’s independent businesses and the vibrant spirit of Main Street, brought to life by the dedication of local shopkeepers, service providers, and restaurants. Started during the darker days of the pandemic to revive the retail scene, the event has become a tradition of solidarity and support for small, local businesses. Now in its fourth year, with Doreen and Business Sisters stepping in to continue this meaningful effort, the event highlights the importance of shopping local and showcases unique vendors and artisans, all while fostering a sense of community and holiday cheer.
Ultimate Winter activities Guide
The counties are the perfect destination to embrace the season and enjoy exciting winter activities. From ice fishing adventures with Relic Outfitters to enchanting horse-drawn sleigh rides at Strathburn Farm, there’s something for everyone to experience and love this winter!
Countryside adventures in Moose Creek is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unique and memorable winter activities. The highlight is a stunning 3-kilometer skating trail that winds through a serene forest, offering a magical experience for skaters of all ages. For those looking for variety, the site also features snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, a thrilling tubing hill, and a delightful petting zoo that’s a hit with children and animal lovers alike. Visitors rave about the cozy bonfire areas, perfect for warming up after outdoor fun, and the convenience of the on-site food truck, serving up delicious bites to keep everyone energized. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a romantic escape, or a fun day with friends, Countryside Adventures provides the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and charm, making it a must-visit spot during the winter season.
If you love skating, the counties offer plenty of outdoor rinks for public use. Whether you’re gliding solo under the winter sky or gearing up for a friendly game of hockey with friends, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the ice! For a comprehensive list of outdoor rinks in the area, be sure to visit the local municipalities’ websites.
The SDG Counties transform into a winter paradise when the snow falls, offering an extensive network of trails perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or simply hiking amidst nature’s serene beauty. These trails, which wind through forests, open fields, and along scenic rivers, provide a peaceful escape and a chance to enjoy the crisp winter air. From spots like the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary to the trails at Charlottenburgh Park, you’ll find routes that cater to all skill levels. Keep an eye out for local wildlife tracks in the snow, adding a sense of wonder to your adventure. With so much to explore, the SDG Counties’ trails offer a perfect way to stay active, connect with nature, and soak in the winter’s beauty.
A great example of this is the Summertown Trails which offers over 20 km of groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing, along with 10 km dedicated to fat biking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, there’s a trail for every skill level. Plus, you can rent snowshoes, skis, and fat bikes right on-site, making it easy to jump into the fun.
As the holiday season unfolds, there’s no shortage of festive activities to enjoy across SDG Counties. Whether it’s enjoying the crisp air or savoring warm moments with loved ones, the holidays in SD&G are sure to create memories to cherish. Stay up to date here for a detailed weekly guide to all the events happening in our region—there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!
Here’s to a joyful season—and fingers crossed for a White Christmas!