Celebrate the season with your Gatineau neighbors! Explore all the community events with our guide. For Gatineau regulars and holiday explorers, this guide is your companion for festive fun.
One highlight of the season is the dazzling Christmas Lights Across Canada, which brightens the winter evenings in Gatineau. The festive spirit continues at the Canadian Museum of History's Christmas Market, where unique gifts and artisanal treats await. And Christmas at the Mackenzie King Estate is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a charming historic setting for holiday activities. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Got questions? Like to help? Check out our Gatineau Holiday discussion here!
The Top Christmas Events in Gatineau
- Christmas Lights Across Canada
- Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market
- Christmas at the Mackenzie King Estate
- Aylmer Christmas Market
- Festibiere Winter Edition
- Petits Ballets de Noël
- Gatineau Santa Claus Parade
Gatineau Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Lights Across Canada
What to Expect:
Nationwide light display connecting Canadian cities
Description:
Illuminating the winter sky, Christmas Lights Across Canada unites the nation in a dazzling display. This coast-to-coast celebration transforms Gatineau's Confederation Boulevard into a glowing tapestry of lights. Visitors can stroll along the illuminated pathways, taking in the crisp winter air. The event, which began in 1985, symbolizes the unity of Canadian provinces and territories during the holiday season.
Website:
Christmas Lights Across Canada
Gatineau Holiday Markets and Shopping
Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Market set against backdrop of Canadian history
Description:
The Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market blends holiday cheer with cultural heritage. Set against the stunning architecture of the museum, this market offers a unique shopping experience. Browse through stalls featuring handcrafted goods inspired by Canada's rich history. The market pays homage to traditional Indigenous winter celebrations, offering visitors a glimpse into diverse Canadian holiday customs.
Website:
Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market
Aylmer Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Quaint market in historic Aylmer district
Description:
Aylmer's Christmas Market captures the essence of small-town charm in Gatineau's historic district. Local artisans and farmers showcase their wares in this intimate setting. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air as you peruse unique, locally-made gifts. This market continues a tradition dating back to Aylmer's founding in the early 19th century, blending modern holiday spirit with historical significance.
Website:
Gatineau Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Petits Ballets de Noël
What to Expect:
Youth ballet performance of Christmas classics
Description:
Petits Ballets de Noël showcases the talent of young dancers in a heartwarming holiday performance. These budding artists bring classic Christmas tales to life through graceful movements and expressive choreography. Watch as they pirouette and leap across the stage, embodying the spirit of the season. This event continues a long-standing tradition of nurturing young artistic talent in the Gatineau region.
Website:
Gatineau Other Holiday Activities
Christmas at the Mackenzie King Estate
What to Expect:
Historical estate transformed for Christmas
Description:
Step back in time at the Mackenzie King Estate, where Christmas traditions of the past come alive. The former residence of Canada's tenth Prime Minister transforms into a holiday haven. Explore the beautifully decorated rooms, each reflecting the estate's 1930s heyday. The event highlights King's own Christmas traditions, offering a unique perspective on Canadian political history during the festive season.
Website:
Christmas at the Mackenzie King Estate
Festibiere Winter Edition
What to Expect:
Winter beer festival with holiday twist
Description:
Festibiere Winter Edition brings a frosty twist to craft beer appreciation. This unique event combines the art of brewing with winter festivities. Sample a wide array of seasonal brews, each crafted to complement the cold weather. The festival showcases Quebec's thriving craft beer scene, which has roots dating back to the early French settlers who brought their brewing traditions to New France.
Website:
Gatineau Santa Claus Parade
What to Expect:
Bilingual Santa Claus parade reflecting local culture
Description:
Gatineau's Santa Claus Parade marches through the streets, bringing bilingual holiday cheer to all. Colorful floats and costumed characters delight spectators with both French and English festivities. Children can wave to Santa as he passes by in his sleigh. This parade celebrates Gatineau's unique cultural identity, blending French-Canadian and English-Canadian holiday traditions.
Website:
Nearby Events
Christmas Fair at Le Fairmont Château Montebello (Montebello)
What to Expect:
Luxury Christmas fair in world's largest log castle
Description:
Le Fairmont Château Montebello hosts a Christmas Fair that exudes elegance and rustic charm. Set in the world's largest log castle, this event offers a sophisticated holiday experience. Indulge in gourmet tastings while browsing high-end artisanal products. The château, built in 1930, provides a stunning backdrop that combines Quebec's logging history with holiday opulence.
Website:
Christmas Fair at Le Fairmont Château Montebello
Wakefield Christmas Market (Wakefield)
What to Expect:
Picturesque market in charming Wakefield village
Description:
Wakefield's Christmas Market nestles in the heart of this picturesque Gatineau Hills village. Local artisans display their crafts against a backdrop of historic buildings and natural beauty. Visitors can find unique gifts while soaking in the quaint atmosphere of this former lumber town. The market reflects Wakefield's artistic community, which has flourished since the village's founding in the 19th century.
Website:
Christmas at the Canadian Museum of Nature (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Natural history-themed Christmas activities
Description:
Christmas at the Canadian Museum of Nature intertwines holiday spirit with scientific wonder. Explore exhibits adorned with nature-inspired decorations, bringing a unique twist to traditional ornaments. Participate in hands-on activities that reveal the science behind winter phenomena. This event highlights Canada's diverse ecosystems and their adaptations to the winter season, offering an educational holiday experience.
Website:
Christmas at the Canadian Museum of Nature
Orleans Christmas Choir Show (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Community choir performance with local flavor
Description:
The Orleans Christmas Choir Show resonates with the voices of local talent, filling the air with melodious holiday tunes. This community-driven event showcases a diverse repertoire, including traditional carols and contemporary compositions. Listen as the harmonies blend, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The show reflects Orleans' strong musical heritage, which has been an integral part of the community since its early days.
Website:
National Gallery of Canada Holiday Activities (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Art-inspired holiday activities in national gallery
Description:
The National Gallery of Canada infuses art into holiday celebrations with unique, creativity-focused activities. Explore specially curated exhibits that highlight winter themes in Canadian art. Create your own masterpiece inspired by the gallery's collections during interactive workshops. This event connects Canada's artistic legacy with contemporary holiday expressions, offering a culturally enriching experience.
Website:
National Gallery of Canada Holiday Activities
Alight at Night Festival at Upper Canada Village (Morrisburg)
What to Expect:
Historical village illuminated for Christmas
Description:
Upper Canada Village transforms into a luminous spectacle during the Alight at Night Festival. Nearly one million lights adorn this 19th-century village, creating a breathtaking display. Ride in a horse-drawn wagon through the glowing streets, experiencing Christmas as it might have been in pioneer times. This event brings to life the holiday traditions of early Canadian settlers in a uniquely immersive way.
Website:
Alight at Night Festival at Upper Canada Village
Ottawa Christmas Market (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
European-style Christmas market in Canada's capital
Description:
The Ottawa Christmas Market brings old-world charm to the heart of Canada's capital. Wooden stalls line the streets, offering artisanal goods and seasonal treats. Warm yourself with a cup of mulled wine as you browse through unique gifts. This market draws inspiration from traditional European Christmas markets, blending international holiday customs with Canadian hospitality.
Website:
Christmas at Saunders Farm (Munster)
What to Expect:
Farm-based Christmas activities and light display
Description:
Saunders Farm embraces the holiday season with rustic charm and agricultural flair. Wander through illuminated trails, each telling a different Christmas story. Participate in farm-themed holiday activities, connecting visitors with rural traditions. This event showcases the farm's 200-year history, blending modern holiday celebrations with a glimpse into Canada's agricultural past.
Website:
Christmas Lights at Wesley Clover Parks (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display in equestrian park
Description:
Wesley Clover Parks presents a unique drive-through Christmas light experience. Navigate through a dazzling array of light installations, each telling a different holiday tale. Marvel at the twinkling displays from the comfort of your vehicle. This event transforms the park's equestrian facilities into a winter wonderland, highlighting the versatility of this community space.
Website:
Christmas Lights at Wesley Clover Parks
Christmas Glow (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Indoor Christmas light garden and market
Description:
Christmas Glow creates an indoor oasis of light and warmth, perfect for escaping the winter chill. Wander through illuminated gardens, each themed to represent different cultures and traditions. Explore the market area, featuring local artisans and their unique creations. This event brings together diverse holiday celebrations from around the world, offering a global perspective on Christmas traditions.
Website:
Vintage Village of Lights (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
1920s and 1930s themed Christmas village
Description:
The Vintage Village of Lights transports visitors to the festive ambiance of the 1920s and 1930s. Stroll through streets adorned with period-appropriate decorations and lights. Engage with costumed interpreters who bring the era to life with stories and demonstrations. This event offers a unique glimpse into Canadian holiday celebrations during the interwar period, highlighting the cultural shifts of that time.
Website:
Ottawa Pops Orchestra Holiday Concert (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Pop-infused orchestral holiday performance
Description:
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra Holiday Concert invigorates classic Christmas tunes with a contemporary twist. Listen as familiar melodies blend with modern arrangements, creating a fresh take on holiday music. The orchestra's dynamic performance style brings new life to traditional carols. This event represents the evolution of classical music in Canada, showcasing how traditional and popular music can harmoniously coexist.
Website:
Ottawa Pops Orchestra Holiday Concert
Carp Christmas Farmers' Market (Carp)
What to Expect:
Rural Christmas market with focus on local produce
Description:
The Carp Christmas Farmers' Market celebrates the bounty of local agriculture with a holiday twist. Browse stalls filled with fresh, seasonal produce and artisanal food products. Sample locally-made holiday treats that showcase the region's culinary traditions. This market continues a long-standing tradition of supporting local farmers, dating back to the area's early agricultural roots in the 19th century.
Website:
Carp Christmas Farmers' Market
Christmas Cheer Board's Christmas Hamper Drive (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday food and gift drive
Description:
The Christmas Cheer Board's Christmas Hamper Drive embodies the spirit of giving in Ottawa. This grassroots initiative collects food and gifts for families in need during the holiday season. Contribute to hampers filled with essential items and festive treats. The drive, which began in the early 20th century, reflects Ottawa's long-standing commitment to community support and social welfare.
Website:
Christmas Cheer Board's Christmas Hamper Drive
Enchanted Ottawa (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Interactive light and sound installations across city
Description:
Enchanted Ottawa transforms the city into an interactive playground of light and sound. Explore various installations scattered throughout Ottawa, each offering a unique sensory experience. Interact with light displays that respond to movement and sound. This event showcases Ottawa's commitment to public art and innovation, blending technology with holiday spirit in unexpected ways.
Website:
Manotick's Olde Fashioned Christmas (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Victorian-era Christmas celebrations in historic village
Description:
Manotick's Olde Fashioned Christmas revives the charm of Victorian-era holiday celebrations. The historic village comes alive with period decorations and costumed characters. Participate in traditional activities like caroling and horse-drawn sleigh rides. This event pays homage to Manotick's founding in the 1850s, offering a glimpse into Christmas celebrations of 19th-century Canada.
Website:
Manotick's Olde Fashioned Christmas
Centrepointe Theatres Holiday Shows (Ottawa)
What to Expect:
Diverse lineup of holiday-themed performances
Description:
Centrepointe Theatres Holiday Shows present a varied array of seasonal performances to suit all tastes. From classic ballet to contemporary music, the lineup offers something for everyone. Enjoy performances that range from traditional to innovative interpretations of holiday themes. This event showcases Ottawa's vibrant performing arts scene, which has flourished since the theatre's opening in the late 20th century.
Website:
Centrepointe Theatres Holiday Shows