Christmas lights and crowd in a Canadian winter market

Top 10 Things to do on Christmas in Canada

November 24, 2024

Posted in Seasonal Travel

🎅 1. Visit a Traditional Christmas Market

Step into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, warm drinks, and handmade gifts. Canada’s top markets include:

  • Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District
  • Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza
  • Christkindl Market in Kitchener

Enjoy hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, mulled wine, and handmade ornaments. These markets offer local crafts and a cozy atmosphere perfect for families and couples.

📍 Explore more Christmas events in Canada →

⛸ 2. Go Ice Skating Outdoors

Skating outdoors under festive lights is a classic Canadian Christmas experience. Top spots include:

  • Rideau Canal Skateway – Ottawa
  • Nathan Phillips Square – Toronto
  • Lake Louise Ice Rink – Alberta

Dress warmly and rent skates on-site. The scenery is magical, especially at night.

❄️ 3. See Christmas Lights and Festivals

Holiday light shows bring cities to life. Must-see displays include:

  • Capilano Suspension Bridge (Canyon Lights) – Vancouver
  • Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights
  • Parliament Hill Lights – Ottawa

These free events are family-friendly and perfect for an evening stroll.

🏱 4. Shop Local for Canadian Gifts

Support small businesses and avoid the mall. Look for:

  • Handmade jewelry and art
  • Maple products
  • Cozy socks and gear from Temu or other local stores

Tip: Shop early to avoid delays in holiday shipping.

🎄 5. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

Create a fun tradition by visiting a local tree farm. You can cut your own spruce or pine tree.

  • Check listings in rural Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec
  • Bring gloves and rope to secure your tree

It’s a memory your family won’t forget.

⛷ 6. Hit the Slopes on Christmas Day

Ski resorts stay open during the holidays and often host festive events. Top picks:

  • Whistler Blackcomb – BC
  • Banff & Lake Louise – Alberta
  • Mont-Tremblant – Quebec

Some resorts feature night skiing, torchlight parades, and special meals.

🏖 Read our full Lake Day Packing List here →

🕧 7. Attend a Candlelight Church Service

On Christmas Eve, attend a local candlelight service for a calm and beautiful moment.

  • Many churches offer caroling, live nativity scenes, and warm drinks
  • Everyone is welcome, regardless of beliefs

It’s a peaceful way to connect with the season.

☃️ 8. Build a Snowman or Go Tobogganing

Grab your mittens and head to a snowy park. Build a snowman or slide down a hill with a sled.

This low-cost activity is fun for all ages and perfect during holiday breaks.

🍽 9. Host or Attend a Canadian Holiday Feast

Enjoy classic holiday dishes like:

  • Roast turkey or glazed ham
  • Mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy
  • Tourtière (Quebec meat pie)
  • Butter tarts and Nanaimo bars

Tip: Bring a small gift or dish if you’re invited to someone’s home.

👛 10. Take a Mini Winter Getaway

Escape the city for a cozy winter trip. Ideas:

  • Rent a cabin in the Rockies
  • Visit Old Quebec for a fairytale vibe
  • Relax in Banff’s hot springs

You can add affiliate hotel and car rental links here once traffic increases.


🙋‍♀️ FAQs About Christmas in Canada

When is Christmas celebrated in Canada?

December 25 is the main day, but many events run from early December to New Year’s.

Is it always snowy during Christmas in Canada?

Most provinces have snow — especially Alberta, Quebec, and the territories

What should I wear on Christmas in Canada?

Warm layers, snow boots, gloves, and a thermal hat. It can be very cold!

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