Holiday events in Northern Ontario to make your season bright
13 Minute Read
Summary
- Northern Ontario communities host vibrant holiday events including light displays, parades and festive concerts.
- Local food banks, artisans and charities will benefit from donations and seasonal markets supporting regional makers.
- Events across Sudbury, Thunder Bay, North Bay and beyond offer family-friendly ways to celebrate with crafts, music and lights.
Let the glow of twinkling lights, the sound of Christmas carols and the magic of the season lead you across Northern Ontario this holiday season. From enchanting Christmas markets and dazzling light displays to Santa Claus parades, festive concerts and family-friendly activities, there are plenty of ways to make merry.
Bundle up and discover some of the best holiday events in Northern Ontario, with experiences in and around Sudbury, Thunder Bay, North Bay, Kenora District, Algoma District and Manitoulin Island.
Holiday events and Christmas activities in and around Sudbury
Discover some of the best holiday events in Sudbury, including festive markets, dazzling light displays, Christmas concerts and family-friendly activities.
Holiday Train
https://www.instagram.com/p/C0NCyyOrrnn/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
Where: Various locations, including Sudbury, Marathon, Thunder Bay and Kenora, ON
When: November 21 to December 20, 2026 (select Canadian dates)
Travelling through cities across Canada and the USA, the Holiday Train features free concerts from brightly lit stages as the festive colours and sounds pass by. The railway tour raises money to support local food banks, donating at each stop, and encouraging attendees to do the same. You can look forward to performances by musicians like Jamie Fine, Chase Rice, Sam Roberts Band, American Authors and Tyler Shaw.
Sudbury Santa Claus Parade
Where: Starting at Notre Dame Ave. onto Ste. Anne Rd., Sudbury, ON
When: November 21, 2026
Pick a viewing spot along the route, such as Ste. Anne Road or Elm Street, to enjoy while a parade of glowing, festive floats cruises by. Wave to Santa and some familiar city characters, as this year’s theme is A Very Merry Sudbury Christmas. Fireworks kick off the festivities just before the parade begins.
Handmade Holiday Market
Where: Collège Boréal, 21 Lasalle Blvd., Sudbury, ON
When: November 21 and 22, 2026
Start checking off gifts on your holiday shopping list as you discover a marketplace of beautifully crafted handmade goods. Grab some tasty food and enjoy live entertainment while you browse.
Festival of Lights at Science North
Where: 100 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON
When: November 22 to December 31, 2026
Stroll or cruise along a magically lit holiday trail where colourful lights and festive displays fill you with Christmas cheer. Sudbury Charities Foundation creates a glowing holiday scene on the Science North grounds, featuring a mix of 2D and 3D silhouettes. There are reimagined displays this year, as well as a 35-foot-tall tree strung with lights. Admission is based on voluntary donations of cash or non-perishable food items.
Christmas in the Park
Where: Kivi Park, 4472 Long Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON
When: December 5 and 6, 2026
Kivi Park transforms into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy holiday activities from day into the evening when you’ll be surrounded by twinkly light displays. Bring your kids for a free Santa photo, indulge in festive treats by a crackling fire, create Christmas ornaments and other fun crafts and listen to story time with Santa’s elves.
Magic of Christmas
Where: 154 College St., Greater Sudbury, ON
When: December 5, 2026
A symphony of sounds will fill your soul with warm, holiday cheer as you listen to music from the Nutcracker and other festive classics.
Santa Shuffle Sudbury Fun Run & Elf Walk
Where: Starting at 100 Ramsey Lake Rd., Greater Sudbury, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Register and join a community of fundraisers, running or walking with holiday warmth to provide food and shelter to families experiencing hardship. There are limited edition Santa- themed merch items if you raise a certain amount of money. Sport some festive, sparkling gear as you enjoy the fresh air and support The Salvation Army.
Winter WonderLIGHTS
Where: Whitewater Lake Park, 535 Laurier St. W., Azilda, ON
When: December 12, 2026 to January 1, 2027
Immerse yourself in two enchanting holiday worlds — Christmas Nativity and Santa’s Village — brought to life with dazzling light displays. Admire the scene of the birth of Jesus, walk through sparkling light tunnels and take photos by giant holiday ornaments, toy bears and other glowing scenes as carols play in the background.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Where: The FROMO, 80 Elgin St., Sudbury, ON
When: December 12, 2026
Gather your friends and dust off your ugliest Christmas sweater for a night of food, drinks, music and holiday cheer. A DJ will spin beats all evening, and there will be prizes for the tackiest sweater. Tickets are required.
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Where: Knox Hall, 73 Larch St., Greater Sudbury, ON
When: December 18, 2026
A string quartet will fill the hall with magical holiday sounds while you’re surrounded by the warm glow of thousands of candles. Songs featured include 12 Days of Christmas, Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, O’ Christmas Tree, and Silent Night.
Holiday events and Christmas activities in and around Thunder Bay
Celebrate the season with holiday events in Thunder Bay, from Christmas markets and illuminated parades to festive concerts and family activities.
Holiday Artisan Market
Where: Creekside Nursery, 683 Woodcrest Rd., Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 14 and December 5, 2026
Check off people on your gift list as you browse a festive market filled with unique local vendors. Say hello to Santa and Mrs. Claus during their visit. Holiday décor and magic are around every corner.
Sip n' Shop Local Artisan Holiday Market
Where: Delta Hotels Thunder Bay, Marina Park Dr., Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 15, 2026
Sip on your favourite holiday beverage (from the cash bar) and browse more than 60 local artisans. Get some of your Christmas shopping done and bring the little ones to participate in crafts and enter a colouring contest.
Santa Claus Parade
Where: Starting at Real Canadian Superstore, Carrick St., Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 21, 2026
A lineup of festive floats and holiday scenes will parade down Memorial Avenue during the morning event, ideal for little ones. A Santa and Mrs. Claus sighting will be the finale, and you can grab a hot chocolate and head inside The Auditorium to visit with them afterward.
The Holiday 2026 Craft Revival
Where: Waterfront District and Prince Arthur’s Landing, Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 22, 2026
You’re sure to find some unique gifts for those on your holiday shopping list, from this grand market pop up that takes over multiple venues. Experience live performances and a festive winter atmosphere as you browse more than 200 local vendors.
December Dreams Christmas Market
Where: CLE Coliseum, 425 Northern Ave., Thunder Bay, ON
When: November 28 and 29, 2026
Wander through a lively atmosphere of regional vendors selling unique gifts and handcrafted goods. Sunday will be a family fun day at the market, featuring holiday activities and experiences for the little ones.
The Barra MacNeils: An East Coast Christmas
Where: Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, 1 Paul Shaffer Dr., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 2, 2026
A mix of storytelling, music and festive cheer, this harmonious event is inspired by Christmas ceilidhs, midnight Masses, and warm seasonal gatherings. Listen to performances of Christmas classics and East Coast favourites.
Thunder Bay Parade of Lights
Where: Start at Manitoulin Transport, 161 Main St., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 5, 2026
The community lights up for a magical tradition as decorated trucks, floats and vehicles parade along Main Street and Memorial Avenue. The evening parade is also an opportunity to give back and donate to local organizations.
A Christmas Carol Comedy
Where: 10 Algoma St. S, Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 10 to 20, 2026
A comedy duo blends holiday magic, quick wit and a little mischief to create a playful spin on the beloved Charles Dickens classic.
Thunder Bay's Community Nutcracker
Where: Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, 1 Paul Shaffer Dr., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 11 and 12, 2026
A night at the ballet awaits. Follow the story of Clara as her toy nutcracker comes to life and takes her on a magical Christmas Eve adventure. The performance features more than 150 local dancers of all ages with beautiful costumes and enchanting sets.
Candlelight Christmas
Where: Urban Abbey, 308 Red River Rd., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 12, 2026
Listen to a concert of holiday harmonies and Christmas classics performed by a live orchestra, surrounded by the warm flickering glow of countless candles.
Candlelight Christmas Classics
Where: St. Paul’s United Church, 349 Waverley St., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 18, 2026
Enjoy a concert of beloved Christmas songs, including Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, We Wish you a Merry Christmas and Last Christmas, reimagined and performed by a string quartet. You’ll be surrounded by thousands of candles, illuminating the venue.
Holiday Pops: The Christmas Songbook
Where: Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, 1 Paul Shaffer Dr., Thunder Bay, ON
When: December 19, 2026
A symphony orchestra will bring you into a festive musical celebration as the concert combines traditional holiday favourites with contemporary picks from a Christmas pop song book.
Holiday events and Christmas activities in and around North Bay
Make the season merry with Christmas events in North Bay, including winter markets, holiday performances, Santa Claus parades and hands-on workshops.
Fused Glass Christmas Workshop
Where: Incandescence Glass Studio, 910 Main St. N, Callander, ON
When: November 4 to December 23, 2026 (select dates)
Get yourself in the holiday spirit with a festive craft. Create a custom set of four Christmas ornaments in a beginner workshop where you’ll learn multiple glass techniques such as fusing and painting with glass powders.
North Bay Winter Outdoor Market Experience
Where: 100 Ferguson St., North Bay, ON
When: November 7, 14, 21 and 27, 2026
Visit a magical winter wonderland that is sure to fuel your festive spirit, with mini train rides, a maker’s market, Santa photos in a gingerbread house, a holiday film set photobooth, Santa’s craft workshop, twinkling light installations, live music and an Elf Academy.
North Bay Santa Claus Parade
Where: Starting at Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens, North Bay, ON
When: November 15, 2026
Keep watch for the appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus as they join a lineup of holiday floats parading along Chippewa Street West and Ferguson Street. Bring your letter to Santa if it still needs to be mailed. This year’s theme is Christmas at the Zoo.
Festival of Trees & All Things Christmas
Where: Gateway City Brewery, 490 Gormanville Rd., North Bay, ON
When: November 20 and 21, 2026
Live festive music will ring through the air during this community fundraiser where you can browse beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and other decorations as you take part in both a silent auction and a raffle.
Downtown Christmas Walk
Where: Downtown North Bay, 205 Main St. E, North Bay, ON
When: November 27, 2026
North Bay’s Main Street is transformed into a glittery holiday festival filled with fun for the whole family. There will be a tree lighting ceremony, mini trains to ride, photo opportunities with Santa and sweet treats to enjoy. Keep an eye out for holiday surprises, as nearby restaurants and shops are open late.
Indigenous Winter Market
Where: Elk’s Lodge No. 25, 325 Elks Ln., North Bay, ON
When: November 28 and 29, 2026
Indigenous artists, makers and vendors gather for a merry market where you’ll find gifts that you won’t see anywhere else. Grab a snack as you browse the booths.
HoHoHoliday Santa Walk/Run
Where: North Bay Museum, 100 Ferguson St., North Bay, ON
When: November 28, 2026
Register with your fellow North Bay Santas to fill the streets with cheer during a festive 3K or 5K, walk or run. Choose whether you’ll receive a Santa suit or bring your own ho-ho-holiday swag. Proceeds support Make-A-Wish Foundation and North Bay Food Bank.
Matt Dusk: A Very Sinatra Christmas
Where: The Capitol Centre, 150 Main St. E, North Bay, ON
When: December 3, 2026
You’ll be transported to the golden age of swing during a concert mixing Frank Sinatra hits and timeless holiday classics.
Christmas In Concert with the 22 Wing Band
Where: Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption, 480 McIntyre St., W, North Bay, ON
When: December 8, 2026
A Christmas concert fills the room with your favourite holiday tunes performed by the talented musicians of the 22 Wing Band.
The Glorious Sounds of Christmas
Where: The Capitol Centre, 150 Main St. E, North Bay, ON
When: December 12, 2026
Seasonal classics will be performed by multiple groups, including a children’s chorus from local school ensembles, and a symphony based on traditional carols by Victor Hely-Hutchinson.
Witty Artisans 18th Annual Christmas Craft Show
Where: North Bay Memorial Gardens, 100 Chippewa St. W., North Bay, ON
When: December 13, 2026
Browse a showcase of whimsical, creative handmade items from more than 40 vendors as you work on your holiday wish list. The North Bay Rock Choir will be singing carols for a couple of hours. The event is free but donations to the The North Bay Food Bank are greatly appreciated.
Holiday events and Christmas activities in Kenora District
Explore festive events in Kenora District, where Christmas markets and holiday performances bring seasonal cheer to Dryden.
Christmas Market
Where: DDAS Fairgrounds, 99 Scott St., Dryden, ON
When: November 27 and 28, 2026
Get a head start on your holiday shopping and browse a variety of local vendors in a festive atmosphere. The canteen is open for hot meals such as pancakes, chili or lasagna and sweet treats like cheesecake.
A Coast-to-Coast Cowboy Christmas Part 2
Where: Dryden Centre for the Performing Arts, 100 Casimir Ave., Dryden, ON
When: November 29, 2026
Canadian country stars George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett are spreading cheer across the country with a night of personal stories, classic holiday songs and their own country hits.
Holiday events and Christmas activities in Algoma District
Find holiday events in Algoma District, including a festive market featuring local makers, food and entertainment.
Algoma Makers Market Holiday Market
Where: 269 Queen St. E., Sault Ste. Marie, ON
When: December 5 and 6, 2026
Soak in the holiday magic as you browse more than 250 local makers, artisans, creators and bakers during the course of the market weekend. Find unique gifts, take photos with festive decorations and eat some tasty treats. Donations are accepted for the Sault Area Hospital Foundation NICU.
Holiday events and Christmas activities on Manitoulin Island
Enjoy Christmas events on Manitoulin Island, from local holiday markets and creative workshops to family-friendly celebrations with Santa.
Christmas Market at the Centennial Museum
Where: Centennial Museum Sheguindah, 10962 Hwy. 6, Sheguindah, ON
When: November 27 and 28, 2026
Discover unique makers and gift ideas for everyone on your shopping list. Visit Santa between 11 a.m. and noon.
Christmas Gnome Workshop
Where: Split Rail Brewery, 31 Water St., Gore Bay, ON
When: November 28, 2026
Create a Christmas gnome made with fresh seasonal greenery, perfect for your porch decor. Craft with friends as you munch on charcuterie, enjoy games and test your luck with a door prize.
Breakfast with Santa
Where: Gore Bay Legion, 26 Phipps St., Gore Bay, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Enjoy a breakfast with the man in red himself, all while taking photos and indulging in great food.
Fuel your holiday season with a CAA Membership
CAA Members can save wherever they adventure, and Memberships start from just $30 a year. Enjoy discounts when dining out on your day trips and save on fuel.
Compare Memberships and sign up online today or visit your nearest CAA Store in North Bay, Sudbury or Thunder Bay.
