Last updated: November 11, 2024
Plan your festive fun in Kitchener with our detailed event guide. From Kitchener experts to wide-eyed newcomers, this guide illuminates the path to holiday magic.
Popular events during this season include the Christkindl Market, which transforms the downtown area into a vibrant European-style holiday bazaar, offering unique crafts and tasty treats. In addition, the intricately lit displays and cheerful atmosphere at the Gift of Lights and Jingle Bell Rock attract families looking for holiday cheer. And the St. Jacobs Sparkles is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring enchanting lights and local artisans showcasing their handmade goods. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Dazzling holiday light displays with synchronized music.
At Bingemans, explore over 300 animated and static light displays, including light tunnels, in a drive-through experience. Jingle Bell Rock offers a fully immersive walking experience with giant light sculptures and musical animations. A 40-foot twinkly tree centerpiece adds to the spectacle.
Where: Kitchener | More Info: Gift of Lights and Jingle Bell Rock
Synchronized digital light projections with music.
The Old Post Office in downtown Cambridge features digital light projection shows that run four times a night, Thursday-Sunday, at 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm, and 8:30pm. Located at 12 Water Street South, the approximately 15-minute shows are accompanied by music.
Where: Cambridge | More Info: Light Shows at the Old Post Office
Traditional European market with over 80 vendors.
Christkindl Market is an annual holiday market in downtown Kitchener, featuring traditional European sights, smells, and fun. Over 80 vendors sell handcrafted items, Christmas decorations, and baked goods, recreating the spirit of German Christmas festivals.
Where: Kitchener | More Info: Christkindl Market
Holiday shopping with live music and strolling carollers.
St. Jacobs Sparkles is an annual holiday shopping event featuring extended hours at unique shops, live music, and festive activities amidst thousands of twinkling lights.
Where: St. Jacobs | More Info: St. Jacobs Sparkles
Unique gifts and festive beverages in a holiday shopping setting.
The Holiday Sip ‘n Shop at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market offers a delightful shopping experience with handpicked vendors selling unique and exquisite gifts. Enjoy a variety of festive beverages while exploring the market, perfect for finding special items for your holiday list.
Where: St. Jacobs | More Info: Holiday Sip ‘n Shop at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
Traditional British pantomime with audience participation.
Peter Pan at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse is a traditional British panto featuring incredible musical numbers, slapstick comedy, outrageous costumes, and audience participation. The show boasts a winning combination of theatrical magic, making it a delightful experience for all ages.
Where: Waterloo | More Info: Peter Pan at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, a timeless ballet adaptation of the Brothers Grimm's classic tale. Follow Snow White's journey as she navigates love, friendship, and witchcraft, all set to beautiful music and stunning costumes.
Where: Kitchener | More Info: Snow White at Centre In The Square
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
The Nutcrackers of Castle Kilbride is a captivating holiday performance featuring a classic ballet with elaborate sets and costumes, set in the historic Castle Kilbride.
Where: Baden | More Info: The Nutcrackers of Castle Kilbride
Diverse community events celebrating the season.
Cambridge Winterfest is a month-long celebration featuring various events for all ages, including volunteer opportunities and festive activities.
Where: Cambridge | More Info: Cambridge Winterfest
Holiday celebration with historic mansion decorations and themed exhibits.
Celebrate the holiday season at Castle Kilbride, where the Livingston family's beloved home is beautifully decorated with trees, ribbon, and garland. The Fabled exhibit, co-curated by the Stratford Festival Archives, adds to the festivities with costumes from classic children's books.
Where: Baden | More Info: Christmas at the Castle
High-stakes bingo with exclusive raffle items and specialty beverages.
Join the wildly fun Christmas Toy Bingo fundraiser to win the hottest toys of the season, supporting the Caledonia Agricultural Society and Mary Poppins Cooperative Preschool. Each ticket includes 3 cards for 10 games, with prizes like an Xbox Series X, Kids Ride-On Vehicle, and Barbie Dream House. Additional raffle tickets offer chances at Nintendo Switch, AirPods Pro, and Apple iPad. Specialty beverages are available, and VIP experiences include exclusive food and snacks.
Where: Caledonia | More Info: Christmas Toy Bingo
Family-friendly breakfast event with Santa Claus.
Join us for a delicious eat-in breakfast featuring Santa Claus, supporting Senior Support Services and the Caledonia Agricultural Society. Enjoy a hearty meal with your family, including fluffy pancakes, savory sausages, and crispy bacon.
Where: Caledonia | More Info: Caledonia Breakfast With Santa
Victorian-themed holiday activities in a historic setting.
Woodside National Historic Site offers a variety of holiday events, including Victorian-era themed activities, festive feasts, and Christmas celebrations. Explore the beautifully decorated King Family home, participate in traditional games, and learn about historical customs.
Where: Kitchener | More Info: Woodside National Historic Site Holiday Events
Miniature village with intricate details inspired by Dickens novels.
Herner’s Victorian Village is a miniature village inspired by Dickens novels, featuring tiny homes, shops, and British landmarks in intricate detail.
Where: Baden | More Info: Herner’s Victorian Village
Victorian-themed holiday decorations and activities.
Celebrate the holiday season at Castle Kilbride with beautifully decorated rooms, costumed staff, and festive activities inspired by Victorian traditions.
Where: Baden | More Info: A Merry Victorian Christmas
Yuletide tour with costumed guide and festive treats.
Embark on a yuletide tour of the 1877 mansion, guided by a costumed guide, followed by treats like cranberry-white chocolate scone and shortbread cookie paired with gingerbread house fruit tea.
Where: Baden | More Info: Sugarplum Tea and Tour
