Holiday cheer awaits: Top Christmas events in Northern Ontario
5 Minute Read
Christmas in Northern Ontario is truly magical. It looks like a scene on a holiday card, with small towns covered in twinkling festive lights. It's the perfect backdrop for getting into the holiday spirit and exploring various seasonal events. Imagine cozying up with a rich peppermint hot chocolate, sporting your coziest Christmas sweater, and exploring everything from charming local markets to captivating holiday performances.
Ready to make some unforgettable memories? Here are some must-visit holiday events in Northern Ontario that you won't want to miss!
Greater Sudbury Santa Claus Parade
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Where: Elm St., Sudbury, ON
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Experience the magic of the Santa Claus Parade in Sudbury, a beloved annual tradition that brings the community together in festive spirit. This year's enchanting theme, The Lights and Sounds of Christmas, promises to dazzle with beautifully decorated floats that showcase creativity and dedication. Don't forget to wave to Santa and his reindeer.
North Bay Christmas Market
Where: 100 Ferguson St., North Bay, ON
When: November 23, 2024
Strolling through the North Bay Christmas market feels like stepping into a holiday Hallmark movie as it's so festive. So, it's no surprise that over thirty Christmas films have been shot in North Bay. One of the market's features is a self-guided holiday film tour, allowing you to immerse yourself in the festive spirit at your own pace.
Expect to enjoy live music throughout, various local vendors showcasing DIY crafts, visits from Santa, mini-train rides, and more.
Christmas DIY Sign Class
Where: La Fromagerie, 80 Elgin St., Sudbury, ON
When: November 24, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Craft your holiday decor by joining a winter sign-making class at La Fromagerie this year. Suitable for all skill levels, it's a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your home.
Elf The Musical
Where: Magnus Theatre, 10 South Algoma St., Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 28 - December 21
Don't miss Elf the Musical, a heartwarming holiday classic that captures the true spirit of Christmas! The musical follows Buddy, a young orphan who ends up in Santa's bag and is raised as an elf at the North Pole, unaware of his true identity. It is filled with catchy songs and a powerful message: the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear.
HO HO Holiday 5K
Where: North Bay Museum, 100 Ferguson St., North Bay, ON
When: November 30, 2024
It's not every day you get the chance to don a Santa Claus suit and run a marathon through the streets! This holiday season, you can do just that with Active Running from North Bay.
Upon registration, you'll receive a festive goodie pack with your Santa suit, a collector's medal, sunglasses, a temporary tattoo, and a holiday treat. This run is not only about festive fun; proceeds support the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
CPKC Holiday Train
Where: Various locations, including Sudbury, Thunder Bay and Kenora, ON
When: November 30 - December 3, 2024
The CPKC Holiday Train returns for its 26th journey this holiday season, illuminating the tracks with colourful lights and dazzling performances. Since 1999, this vibrant and beautifully adorned train has travelled across Canada and parts of the United States, spreading holiday magic to communities.
Each stop features live performances from talented musicians on board, with this year's headliners being Tyler Shaw and Shawnee Kish.
Sudbury Charities Foundation Festival of Lights at Science North
Where: Science North, 100 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON
When: December 1 – 31, 2024
Bask in the twinkling lights' holiday glow at the Science North Festival of Lights. Walk through the impressive displays that span 3.25 kilometres and have 55,000 lights.
Before visiting the Festival of Lights, which opens in the evening, don't miss exploring inside Science North, where CAA Members save 20% on general admission tickets.
Light Up Kivi Park
Where: Kivi Park, 4472 Long Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON
When: December 7, 2024
Light up your night at Kivi Park, where you can expect a complete winter wonderland experience with over 100 illuminated trees.
The lights aren't the only thing Kivi Park has planned; you can indulge in one of the s'more-making stations, reminisce in a Christmas storybook walk, snap a picture with Santa, or grab a beloved Beavertail for a treat.
Candlelight Christmas Classics
Where: Place des Arts du Grand Sudbury, 27 Larch St., Greater Sudbury, ON
When: December 13-14, 2024
Immerse yourself in an enchanting one-hour concert featuring your favourite Christmas tunes like never before. Candlelight offers a unique experience: live string quartet performances illuminated by the soft glow of hundreds of flickering candles, creating an unforgettable ambiance that captivates the senses.
The first show, on December 13, will feature songs from the Nutcracker. December 14 will feature a complete list of all the Christmas classics, including covers from favourite artists like Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, and Wham!
Northern Christmas Market
Where: 712 Macdonell St., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 15, 20, 21, 22, 2024,
Experience the magic of the Northern Christmas Market, now with a pet-friendly atmosphere! Explore the heated huts filled with unique gifts, enjoy delicious treats, and soak in the festive spirit with live entertainment and joyful holiday music.
Downtown Sudbury Christmas Market
Where: Elgin St. and Durham St., Sudbury, ON
When: December 15-16, 2024
Nestled in the heart of downtown Sudbury, their annual Christmas market is a festive delight you won't want to miss. Imagine the streets alive with local vendors offering a treasure trove of holiday goodies. You'll find cozy fire warming stations to keep you toasty while you shop, a merry-go-round that will make the kids smile, and an array of delicious festive food and drinks.
Elevate your holiday season with your CAA Membership
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members can enjoy discounts on everything from dining out to filling up on fuel, as well as other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and compare Membership plans online.
