Hamilton Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Hamilton and surrounding areas
Hamilton celebrates the festive season with sparkling Christmas lights across Dundurn Castle, Locke Street and the waterfront, offering winter attractions and neighborhood charm. The calendar is full of festive events such as Hess Winter Village & Market, Winter Wander and the St. David CES Christmas Makers Market that showcase local vendors and seasonal performances. Plan family activities like skating, market strolls and light-viewing tours, then warm up with local eats as the city’s holiday attractions create cozy, memorable evenings for visitors and residents alike.
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Christmas Markets
28 eventsFestive market supporting local children and youth.
Christmas Lights
22 eventsAnnual tree lighting and holiday festival
Christmas Shows
18 eventsFestive holiday concert with renowned orchestra and guest artists.
Christmas Parties
6 eventsFestive breakfast with Santa Claus
Other Christmas Activities
26 eventsAnnual Santa Claus Parade with Santa's arrival
Editor's Picks (6)
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Cavalcade of Lights
(Toronto)
Annual tree lighting and holiday festival
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Christmas Town at Mountsberg Conservation Area
(Campbellville)
Magical woodland visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
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Milton Santa Claus Parade
(Milton)
Cartoon-themed parade and food bank drive
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The Original Santa Claus Parade
(Toronto)
Over 120 years of tradition
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Oakville Hometown Holiday
(Oakville)
Outdoor shopping experience with Winter Wonderland of Lights
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Burlington Festival of Lights
(Burlington)
Waterfront transformed into a winter wonderland with 60+ light displays.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Hamilton Christmas FAQ
The Hamilton Santa Claus Parade, CPKC Holiday Train, and the Hess Village Winter Village Kick-Off are among the city’s largest and most beloved holiday events, drawing crowds for parades, lights, and festive cheer.
Hamilton celebrates with events like Victorian Christmas at Dundurn Castle, Dickens of a Christmas in Dundas, and the annual Santa Claus Parade—blending historic charm with modern festivities.
Downtown Hamilton, especially Gore Park and surrounding shopping districts, is known for its festive displays. Neighborhoods like Westdale and Hess Village also feature charming light installations and community events.
The Hess Village BIA Holiday Market is a top spot, along with smaller craft fairs and artisan markets in neighborhoods across the city. These markets showcase local makers, food vendors, and unique gifts.
Enjoy free light displays in Gore Park, neighborhood walks to see holiday decorations, and community events like tree lightings and parades. Many markets and historic site tours offer affordable or donation-based entry.
Families will enjoy the Santa Claus Parade, festive train rides at the Royal Botanical Gardens, and kid-friendly markets with crafts and treats. Historic sites like Dundurn Castle also host special holiday programs for children.