The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year, along with one of the busiest times ones. There are many family fun activities and events taking place across the Annapolis Valley this holiday season. As it gets closer to Christmas, you should watch social media because even more events may be scheduled. Here are great things to do during Christmas time in the Annapolis Valley.
You may like: Christmas Markets in Annapolis Valley
Santa Claus Parades & Light Displays
New Minas Rotary Parade of Lights
27th annual parade of lights organized by the Rotary Club of New Minas.
Details
Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Crescent Drive, New Minas – Kings Transit/Department of Transportation
New Ross Christmas Festival
New Ross boasts a spectacular weekend of Christmas fun, which is held annually on the first weekend of December. This Christmas celebration begins with hundreds of people gathering at the heart of New Ross to countdown the lighting of the tree, while sipping hot chocolate after having a full belly from the earlier potluck supper. This is followed by a weekend of craft fairs, home-cooked meals, carollers, Christmas tree U-picks, children’s fun and visits to local artisans, topped off with magical entertainment, wonderful singers, and dancing the night away.
Details
December 4 – 6, 2026
Tree Lighting at Bandstand at the Cross | Friday, December 4 | 7 PM
New Ross, NS
Free
Festival of Trees & Dickensville
It is our favourite time of year … when the Museum is filled with gorgeous Christmas trees, and the delightful Dickensville village display. Get into the festive spirit by wandering around our sparkling trees. Let your imagination step back into the time through the Dickensville display of 80 little buildings, in an intricate streetscape. Details
2026 dates TBA
Usaually November 23 to December 23
Tuesday to Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Queens County Museum, 109 Main St., Liverpool
Free
Weymouth Santa Claus Parade
Santa is arriving at Weymouth with floats! The Hillbilly Band and Santa & Mrs Claus will be at the Mercantile after the parade.
Details
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5:30 PM
Downtown Weymouth
Free
Tree Lighting Weymouth
Organised by the Southville & Area Fire Dept. in memory of Warren & Joyce Cromwell. Enjoy hotdogs & hot chocolate. All welcome to bring a Christmas ornament to hang on the tree.
Details
November 21, 2026 | 6:00 PM
717 Langford Rd, Weymouth
Free
Holly Days Festival
Join us for this year’s Kentville Holly Days Festival, hosted in partnership by the Town of Kentville and the Kentville Business Community! A fun, festive weekend jam-packed with holiday activities for you and your friends. Details
November 20-22, 2026
Christmas Tree Lighting @ Centre Square | Friday, November 20 | 6 PM
Various streets and neighbourhoods in Kentville
Free
Christmas Carols & Holiday Concerts
Matt Andersen
When Matt Andersen steps on stage, he brings a lifetime of music to every note he plays. His latest album, The Hammer & The Rose, is a veritable garden of heart; a (mostly) delicate collection of tender folk and stirring soul numbers that find the New Brunswick-born songwriter thoughtfully tending to the most important things in life. Details
December 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
$30 – $60 + HST
A Gunning & Cormier Christmas
Two of Atlantic Canada’s most celebrated performers, Dave Gunning and J.P. Cormier, return to the stage this holiday season with A Gunning & Cormier Christmas – an evening of music, stories, laughter, and festive spirit. Details
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, 106 Gerrish Street, Windsor
$49.99 – $55.99 + tax
André Rieu’s 2026 Christmas Concert: Let it Snow
This holiday season, celebrate the most wonderful time of the year on the big screen with André Rieu’s 2026 Christmas Concert – Let It Snow. This heartwarming festive spectacular, filled with beloved Christmas classics, enchanting waltzes, and magical surprises, will leave you smiling long after the final encore. Joined by his world-famous Johann Strauss Orchestra, exceptional sopranos, and a powerful 120-voice male choir, André brings the spirit of Christmas to life in an unforgettable musical event. Overflowing with music, laughter, and holiday cheer, this concert is perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re surrounded by snow or simply dreaming of it, experience the magic of Christmas on the big screen with those you love. Wrap up your year with Let It Snow. Details
December 5, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
Adult $20, Youth $5
Choose Joy
The Annapolis Basin Community Band presents “Choose Joy”, directed by Jolene Buchholz and guests: The AWEC Concert Band. Details
December 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
Adult $15, Youth $5, 12 and under free; Donations to the Annapolis Food Bank encouraged
Christmas at Acadia
Welcome the season with an afternoon of music spanning the centuries. The Acadia University Chorus (Michael Caines, director) and the Acadia Orchestra (Dr. Tristan De Borba, director) are joined by University Organist John Scott and harpist Deanne van Rooyen. Details
December 6, 2026 | 3:00 PM
Acadia University – Convocation Hall, 550 Main Street, Wolfville
Admission is $10 at the door. Free for students and youth.
LENNIE GALLANT
Lennie Gallant and band return to King’s Theatre with The Innkeeper’s Christmas!
The highly popular multimedia show will feature songs from Lennie’s Christmas record, as well as favourites from his extensive catalogue of original songs. It’s an evening full of original Christmas songs, (and some traditional ones), a lot of laughs, great tales, and occasional surprises that will definitely put you in a Yuletide state of mind. Details
Friday, December 11, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
$20 – $50 + HST
Matt Andersen – Making Spirits Bright!
When Matt Andersen steps on stage, he brings a lifetime of music to every note he plays. His latest album, The Hammer & The Rose, is a veritable garden of heart; a (mostly) delicate collection of tender folk and stirring soul numbers that find the New Brunswick-born songwriter thoughtfully tending to the most important things in life. Details
Friday, December 18, 2026 | 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, 106 Gerrish Street, Windsor
$59.99 – $74.99 + tax
Wassail! Manning Chapel Choir
From medieval to marvellously unexpected! The glorious voices of the Chapel Choir, extraordinary folk musicians, ancient carols, and contemporary favourites, all with the warmth, humour, and wonderful excess that have made Wassail one of Wolfville’s favourite Christmas traditions. Details
December 11 & 12, 2026
Manning Memorial Chapel at Acadia University – Convocation Hall, 550 Main Street, Wolfville
Advance $25; Door $30; Kids 12 and under $10 with adult.
Mall Santa – A Christmas Musical Comedy!
Remember the glory days of the Mall? No time was better than Christmastime. Well, we’re bringing it back! With a few of Santa’s rocking elves. Now the fans have arrived, but Santa’s a no-show! Can our Merry band of Elves save the day AND the mall??? Featuring some of your favorite Christmas songs, played by a live band! Details
Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Al Whittle Theatre, 450 Main Street, Wolfville
A Christmas with The Turnbull Brothers
with special guest Ruth Manning. Details
Thursday, December 17, 2026 | 7:00 PM
CentreStage Theatre, 61 River Street, Kentville
$25; cash, debit or credit at the door
TARA MACLEAN & the Bayfield String Quartet
A cozy and elegant evening of glistening winter music and storytelling with one of Canada’s foremost award-winning vocalists and best selling author, Tara MacLean. Joined by the Bayfield String Quartet, Tara will share a luminous blend of classic, contemporary, and original songs, curating an unforgettable night. Through song and story, On This Winter’s Night will wrap the audience in the magic of the season — weaving warmth, wonder, and holiday spirit into every heart. Details
Sunday, December 20, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
$10 – $40 + HST
Holiday Theatre
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Herdmans are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, they steal, they bully… and now they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are in over their heads, especially against a town that wants them to kick the Herdmans out. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Details
November 27, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
A FREE movie, with donations for the Foodbank welcome. General admission at the door.
YES VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUSE
Christmas was coming and all was right with the world … until her friends mischievously fill her in on the “facts” about Old Saint Nick. Who could tell her the truth? Not her father, mother, or teacher. So Virginia writes a letter to the editor of The New York Sun, for her father always said, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Virginia’s letter falls into the hands of Francis P. Church, a veteran editorial writer who knows he must answer, and must answer truthfully. And so he begins his reply, which becomes one of the most memorable and cherished editorials in newspaper history. A heartfelt Christmas story. Details
November 26 – 29, 2026
Al Whittle Theatre, 450 Main Street, Wolfville
$15 – $25; Pay What You Can NOV 25
A Rainbow’s End
Step into a whimsical world bursting with colour, music, puppetry, laughter, and delightful surprises! Join us for a heartwarming theatrical adventure that will spark imaginations, inspire wonder, and bring joy to audiences of all ages. Be among the first to experience this original creation, two years in the making, by Aurora Scott and Stuart Hiduk, in collaboration with Jim Morrow and Kate Church. Details
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Al Whittle Theatre, 450 Main Street, Wolfville
Free Admission
THE POLAR EXPRESS
A young boy beginning to eschew the idea of Santa Claus is shuttled on Christmas Eve on a magical journey to the North Pole to become a believer. Details
December 5, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
Free
SPARKLE DANCE: CHRISTMAS ICON TALENT SEARCH
Get in the spirit of Christmas with this dazzling Christmas show from the Sparkle Dance Academy!
Who will be the face of Christmas 2026? Punk rock reindeer rebels, prim and proper angels, health food obsessed nutcrackers, disgruntled elves….Seven Christmas figures bring their talent to the Christmas Icon stage in the hopes of becoming the Face of Christmas 2026. The live panel of Christmas Icon judges will select the top three finalists and the audience will choose the 2026 Face of Christmas! Details
December 6, 2026 | 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
Adults: $22 for one show / $35 for two shows; Youth (Under 18): $5 for one show / $8 for two shows
Elf – Screening
Spread the holiday cheer this season with Buddy the Elf! Join us for a special screening of the beloved Christmas classic, Elf, starring Will Ferrell. Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves, journeys to New York City to find his biological father. Bursting with laugh-out-loud comedy, holiday charm, and enough maple syrup to satisfy any sweet tooth. Grab your tickets now and discover the best way to spread Christmas cheer—singing loud for all to hear! Details
Sunday, December 6, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, 106 Gerrish Street, Windsor
$17 (including tax)
Puss In Boots – A Pantomime
Billy Butterbean, son of the now demised Miller of the Village of Much-Muffin-in-The-Marsh. Has no job and no money all he has is his trusty cat Mr. Whiskas. His Auntie Flora Flapjack, who owns the local bakery, takes pity on her nephew and decides she is going to make him into “A Pillar of the Community”. With the help of Auntie Flora and Mr. Whiskas, Billy soon sets out to become rich and a suitable husband for the beautiful Princess Gwendoline. But first he must defeat the jealous noble suiter, his two henchpersons and a hideous Ogre. Details
November 26 – 29, December 3 – 6, 10 – 13, 2026
CentreStage Theatre, 61 River Street, Kentville
$10 – $15
It’s a Wonderful Life
George Bailey has spent his entire life giving to the people of Bedford Falls. All that prevents rich skinflint Mr. Potter from taking over the entire town is George’s modest building and loan company. But on Christmas Eve the business’s $8,000 is lost and George’s troubles begin. Details
Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Al Whittle Theatre, 450 Main Street, Wolfville
Free Admission
Puss in Boots: A Christmas Tail of Annapolis Royal
This festive panto follows the quick-witted Puss in Boots and a cast of colourful local characters on a quest to save Annapolis Royal’s Christmas feast from the villainous Captain Gloom.
This production showcases an all-AWEC student cast, working hand-in-hand with dedicated community mentors who have helped guide and inspire these young performers every step of the way. Come out for an evening of laughter, music, and Maritime holiday cheer. Details
December 17, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
Adults: $15; Youth: $5
A Christmas to Remember
A full length original Christmas Musical Comedy written by Melissa Vidito & Mike Butler featuring the music of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers
Join us this December for our brand-new original musical comedy show about family, forgiveness, and the magic of coming home. Featuring the music of Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers’ beloved album Once Upon a Christmas.Written By Melissa Vidito & Mike Butler. Details
December 18 – 19, 2026
CentreStage Theatre, 61 River Street, Kentville
$28.27
The Muppet’s Christmas Carol (1992)
A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during nighttime visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Details
Sunday, December 20, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Al Whittle Theatre, 450 Main Street, Wolfville
Free Admission
THE NUTCRACKER
The magician Herr Drosselmeyer is on a quest to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker doll by the wicked Queen of the Mice; the only way to break the spell is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him. A flicker of hope comes to Drosselmeyer in the form of the young Clara, whom Drosselmeyer meets at the Stahlbaum’s Christmas party. With a swish of Drosselmeyer’s cape and a little bit of magic, a cosy festive gathering turns into a marvellous adventure. Details
December 23, 2026 | 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM
Kings Theatre, 209 St George Street, Annapolis Royal
$7.95 Youth (under 18); $18.95 Adult; + HST
Other oliday-Themed Events
Holiday Craft Expo
Shop for everyone on your shopping list from local vendors at the holiday craft expo. Support local artisans, find unique handmade gifts, and kick off the holiday season in style! Details
Sunday, November 15, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Louis Millett Community Complex, 9489 Commercial Street, New Minas
$2 admission; Under 5 is Free
Acadia Craft Expo
The Acadia Craft Expo is one of the longest running Christmas Craft Fairs in Nova Scotia. Join us, featuring hand-made Atlantic Canada crafts, this show is known for its welcoming, family-like atmosphere and a variety of items from glass to wood carvings, jewelry, knitting, wools and more. A little bit of food, spirits and Christmas music make the attendance for this event in the top three Christmas Craft Fairs in Nova Scotia. Details
November 20 – 22, 2026
Acadia Athletics Complex, 550 Main St, Wolfville
Adults $8.00, Student/Senior $6.00, Children 12 and under FREE.
Victorian Christmas
Step back in time to the late 19th century and join us for our annual Victorian Christmas celebration at the O’Dell House Museum! Enjoy a warm cup of mulled cider and a homemade cookie while taking in the beautiful decorations and being greeted by our costumed interpreters. Details
November 27 – 29, 2026
O’Dell House Museum, 136 St George St, Annapolis Royal
By Donation
Gingerbread Competition
Put your creativity to the test this festive season with the fifth annual AHS Gingerbread Competition! Gingerbread artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to compete for prize ribbons in several unique categories. Gingerbread creations will be on display at the O’Dell House Museum from November 27th-29th as part of our Victorian Christmas celebrations. During this time, the public is encouraged to visit the museum and vote for their favourite entry. Details
November 27 – 29, 2026
O’Dell House Museum, 136 St George St, Annapolis Royal
Participants must register by 4pm on Monday, November 23rd. Entries must be dropped off at the O’Dell House Museum on November 26th.
Festive Trivia Night
Gather your team for a night of seasonal questions. Details
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sissiboo Landing, Weymouth
Teams of 4 – $10 per person; Complete registration and send via Messenger or email to sissiboolanding@gmail.com
Little Makers Workshop
Enjoy some holiday fun, crafts, and treats. For Children Pre-K to Grade 6. Details
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 10 AM – 11 AM & 12 PM – 1 PM
Sissiboo Landing, Weymouth
Register
Santa Drives Through Kingston
Santa’s visiting the Village of Kingston! Wave at him from the comfort of your own home or at the end of your driveway.
He will collect non-perishable food items for the Upper Room Food Bank as he passes by! Details
2026 dates TBA
Friday, December 12, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
655 Main Street, Kingston
Free
HOHOHoliday 5k
November 28 – December 31, 2026
Nationwide/Virtual Run
Register