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Things to do this Christmas across Kitchener-Waterloo Region – 2018
Christmas celebrations, Santa Claus Parades, holiday family fun events, festivals, weekend activities in and around Kitchener-Waterloo Region.
You may also like
– Christmas Markets in Kitchener-Waterloo Region
– Family Fun Things to Do During Christmas Holidays in Kitchener-Waterloo Region
Contents
- Christmas Lights & Santa Claus Parades
- Christmas Carols & Holiday Concerts
- Christmas Theatre & Other Events
I. Christmas Lights & Santa Claus Parade across Kitchener-Waterloo Region
Gift of Lights
Weekends & Holidays | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMWalk only Night | Sunday, December 2, 2018
Walk only Night: $15/family
Kitchener Santa Claus Parade
This one and a half hour parade, which brings much excitement and joy to not only the young but the adults, has grown in the number of participants and those who straddle King Street to watch the event. Details
Cambridge Santa Claus Parade
Christmas parade puts a smile on each and every person’s face with the meaning of peace, joy and happiness at this special time of year. See over 100 floats lit up with lights and decorations this year at the Cambridge Santa Claus Parade. Details
Ayr Santa Claus Parade
Santa is coming to downtown Ayr. Greeting children at the Watson Pond Pavilion and taking letters after the parade. Details
Puslinch Santa Claus Parade
Come and join us at the parade. Meet Santa and enjoy free hot dogs and hot chocolate. Details
The parade begins at the Fire Hall, then east on #34 to Brock Rd then south on Brock to Maple Leaf Lane, west to Maple Leaf Lane and into the back of the Community Centre grounds
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
The Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train program is returning to the rails for a 18th year to raise money, food, and awareness for food banks and hunger issues across Canada and the United States. Holiday Train is about 1,000 feet in length with 14 rail cars decorated with hundreds of thousands of technology-leading LED lights and a modified boxcar that has been turned into a traveling stage for performers. Details
Show from 4:15 PM – 4:45 PM
Elmira Kiwanis Santa Claus Parade
Santa Claus Parade. Details
Wonders of Winter
The Wonders of Winter (WOW) has been a beloved holiday tradition in the Region of Waterloo. We have over 100,000 lights and more than 100 displays. Come and join us and be a part of it – bring the family! Look for our new displays. See the Nativity Scene at the Wonders of Winter which has been a highlight for many years. Details
Lights on every night | 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Circus Carousel | Daily | 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Animated Movies | Friday & Saturday | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Circus Carousel is located in Front of the Llama Enclosure
Drinks: $1 each
Festive Lights in Cambridge
Enjoy spectacular Christmas lights in four locations throughout Cambridge during the month of December. Take a walk through the interactive light displays in Central Park, visit one of four magical Christmas trees or take a selfie with the illuminated CAMBRIDGE sign in front of City Hall. Details
Central Park Lights, 615 King Street East
Hespeler Village Christmas Tree, 11 Tannery Street East
Queen’s Square Fountain Christmas Tree, Queen’s Square Fountain on Melville Street
City Hall Christmas Tree and illuminated CAMBRIDGE sign, 50 Dickson Street
Christmas Fantasy
Christmas Fantasy is a family event featuring entertainment, carollers, hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides and of course, the ceremonial lighting of the Victoria Park, signalling the start of the holiday season. Details
Light display are turned on at 6:00 PM
Old Post Office Light Show
Watch visual effects transform the Old Post Office!
This spectacular light show is projected on the Water Street side of the digital library. All shows will have audio and will run every 30 minutes. Details
Daily, December 25 – 31, 2018
Runs every half hour from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (last show at 9 PM)
Runtime | 16 minutes
Hespeler Santa Claus Parade
Baden Santa Claus Parade
Come on out to the Baden Santa Claus Parade and then head over to the Senior’s Woodworking shop located at 27 Beck Street (behind EJs) to visit Santa in-person! Details
New Hamburg Santa Claus Parade
We are very happy to invite you to participate in the upcoming New Hamburg Christmas Santa Claus Parade.
Christmas Tyme Parade
By Wellesley & District Lions Club. Details
St. Clements Santa Claus Parade
By St Clements Recreation Committee. Details
II. Christmas Carols & Holiday Concerts across Kitchener-Waterloo Region
Verdi’s Rigoletto
2 Grand Ave S, Cambridge
Jeremy Fischer Jr
JUNO-nominated and multi-award winning folk singer Jeremy Fisher brings his catchy songwriting to circle time with his very first collection of music aimed at young listeners, Jeremy Fisher Junior – Highway To Spell.
The folky acoustic instrumentation, punctuated by whimsical horn arrangements and DIY percussion recalls the work of classic children’s entertainers such as Raffi, Fred Penner and Sharon, Lois and Bram. Details
Sounds of the Season
It’s an exciting time of the year at the Kitchener Market. Enjoy the Sounds of the Season while dining at one of our many, delicious food vendors in the upstair Food Hall. Enjoy some traditional, and not so traditional, music over your lunch break. Details
November 17: Vieanna (10:30 AM)
November 29: Julia Appleton
November 30: David Gallagher
December 1: Jessie T (Romanian Kids Choir will also be performaing from 9:30 – 10 a.m.)
December 4: Jo Jo Worthington
December 5: David Gallagher
December 6: Matt Weidinger
December 7: Tea for Two
December 8: Suzuki School of Music (begins at 10:30 a.m.)
December 11: Tim louis
December 12: Jessie T
December 13: Matt Weidinger
December 14: Tea for Two
December 15: Jazz trio
December 18: Erick Traplin
December 19: Juneyt
December 20: Jo Jo Worthington
December 21: Rhythms of Steel
December 22: Waterloo County Carollers
December 29: Rhythms of Steel celebrating Kiwanza
The Legendary Gordon Lightfoot
Mr. Lightfoot has won 15 Juno Awards and been nominated for 5 Grammy Awards. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame in 2001. In May 2003 was made a Companion of the Order of Canada and is also a member of the Order of Ontario. In 2004 was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and, in 2012 into the U.S. Songwriters Hall of Fame. Details
Retro Christmas with the Stars
Join us for our nostalgic Christma show, (last show was sold out) full of Hollywood Stars, glitz and glamour! Highlighting great holiday tunes and legendary singers mostly from the 50’s & 60’s. A special tribute to the Movie “White Christmas” Light refreshments included! Details
Trinity Anglican Church, 12 Blair Rd, Cambridge
A Night in Vienna
Join new KWS Music Director Andrei Feher for a classic Viennese-style Pops celebration as he makes his debut on the Pops Series. The program will feature many famous and elegant Viennese waltzes by the Strauss family and other favourite light classics. Vocalist Aline Kutan will perform some of the most charming and entertaining arias from operettas like Die Fledermaus and The Merry Widow. Don’t miss this lighthearted night of fun! Details
$15.00
Sultans of String: Christmas Caravan
Unique, original arrangements of Christmas favourites from Canada’s worldbeat ambassadors. Huron Carol, Little Drummer Boy and many more! Two of Canada’s finest vocalists, Rebecca Campbell and Amanda Martinez join the Sultans. A Sunday matinee for the whole family. Details
Hope Comes to Earth: Music for the Christmas Season
Spiritus Ensemble’s choir, orchestra and soloists perform J.S. Bach popular Magnificat in D and Cantata 140, “Wachet auf” alongside Zachary Wadsworth’s moving and inspiring ‘The Temple’ (2018). With soloists Sheila Dietrich, Jennifer Enns Modolo, Daniel Cabena, Bud Roach and Daniel Lichti; Kenneth Hull conducting. Details
‘Tis the Season’ Christmas Show
Join us for an afternoon of Christmas music by our chorus and quartets. We will have Christmas goodies to eat as well light refreshments! Details
Wonderful World of Christmas: Graceland Edition
Celebrate the holidays with a yuletide spectacular that will have you dancing in your “Blue Suede Shoes”! Backed by a five-piece band, three-piece horn section, four singers and a church choir, international award-winning Elvis tribute artist Steve Michaels serenades with the King’s best holiday offerings.
Sacred songs of the season along with classic Elvis renditions of tunes like “Blue Christmas,” and “Santa, Bring My Baby Back To Me” celebrate this most wonderful time of the year. Details
Saturday, December 1, 2018 | 2:00 PM
Rockway Entertainers Christmas Dreams Concert
The Rockway Entertainers Choir, comprised of older adults singing four part harmony are pleased to present their annual Christmas Concert series. All ages are invited to attend this festive event and get into the holiday spirit, Bring the whole family! Details
Saturday, December 8 | 2:00 PM @ Breithaupt Centre
Thursday, December 6 | 2:00 PM @ Rockway Centre
In December
with the Grand Philharmonic Youth Choir and Grand Philharmonic Children’s Choir. Details
First United Church, 16 William Street West, Waterloo
Christmas Festival 2018 – The Prince of Peace
A Big Band Christmas with Big Band Theory
Sunday, December 2, 2018 | 3:00 PM
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Join the 50-piece Waterloo Concert Band for a family-friendly program of old, new and even surprising music to celebrate the holiday season. Details
Messiah
Whether this is your very first Messiah, or whether you have heard it countless times, this is a very special experience. Every year, it is fresh and full of wonder, yet timeless and traditional. Just like the Christmas season itself. Details
Perhaps Your Christmas Present
Wellington Wind Symphony Concert. Since some of the repertoire will be chosen by our guest conductors, there will be a few surprises on this program! Expect some traditional favourites, and a contemporary piece or two that might become a future treasure. Also, don’t be alarmed if some whimsical elements are thrown into the mix. Because giving is such a significant part of a Canadian Christmas, we would like you to perhaps consider this our Christmas gift to you. Details
A Nashville Country Christmas
Spend a Nashville afternoon with us in Cambridge. Some of your favourite Country stars will be there, possibly Minnie Pearl, Loretta Lynn, Dolly & Kenny, George Straight, Patsy Cline, Johnny & June & more! ! Details
David Durward Centre, 62 Dickson St, Cambridge
A Celtic Christmas
This very special holiday concert will be sure to lift your holiday spirits. Details
2 Grand Ave S – Cambridge
Yuletide Spectacular
This year, Waterloo Region’s favourite holiday tradition features highlights from the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol, narrated by host Mike Nadajewski and accompanied by images and live music played by the KWS. With dancers, choirs, special guests, a sing-along and other holiday favourites, this concert is sure to get you in the spirit of the season!! Details
EAST WEST Christmas Concert
First On Stage presents The Waterloo Chinese Music Orchestra combining with TM JAZZ to present a contrast in musical styles and instruments with traditional Chinese instruments and a North American jazz combo Details
Boreal – A Folk Night Special
Celebrate the season with Jude Vadala, Tannis Slimmon and Katherine Wheatley. Their welcome winter songs conjure up vivid sights and sounds that every Canadian would fondly recognize; pine branches bending low, squirrels’ footprints in the snow, winter’s hush, shovelling, the sound of slap shots off the boards. Their rapport, both with each other, and with the audience, is warm, friendly, and genuine. With a multitude of instruments, and the soaring vocals of three of Canada’s finest harmony singers, Boreal is the ideal concert to get you in the mood for the Christmas season. Details
A Celtic Family Christmas
This holiday season join Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, the award-winning fiddle virtuosos, in an intimate and unique Christmas album and concert series you will never forget. With the duo accompanied by an incredible array of talented musicians – and their children – A Celtic Family Christmas will guide you into the wonderful world of a true MacMaster Leahy Christmas celebration. Details
The Tom Nagy Christmas Experience
Have you heard the Fake News?
Join Derek HInes, Rob Gellner, Jason White, Don McDougall and, yes, Tom Nagy for what the Globe and Mail may one day refer to as “perhaps one of… the top 18 biggest frauds perpetuated on an unsuspecting public in ( Tom Nagy’s) history”. With dancing bears (fake news) samples of snake-flavoured jello (fake news) and a full set of all new-old tunes (this is actually real) the 2018 Tom Nagy Christmas Experience promises to be the everything you never wanted to write home about!
Come hear why this show IS the fake reason for the season! Also, come for our FREE CAKE (this sounds fake but is actually true). Details
Jason White plays the complete “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Jason White operates at the forefront of music-making and teaching in Waterloo Region. A co-founder of the acclaimed Jazz Room music venue, a resident pianist with the K-W Symphony, and a frequent collaborator with dancers, visual artists, architects, actors, and playwrights, his various performance projects have been seen in many venues running from jazz clubs and art galleries to 2,000-seat concert halls and back yards. Details
Advent & Christmas Carols & Readings in the German Language
K-W’s German cultural roots are celebrated in this non-denominational service of readings and music to mark the Christmas season. Guest musicians are members of the Leupold Chorale, directed by Don Nevile. Details
Let it be Christmas
Let it Be Christmas is packed with memorable Beatles tunes and “Beatleized” Christmas carols that serenade you through the story of the nativity on the long and winding road to Bethlehem. Back for our 11th year, Let it Be Christmas is an enjoyable event for all ages and one of the best Holiday shows in K-W. Details
III. Christmas Plays & Holiday Theatre across Kitchener-Waterloo Region
Shear Madness
Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as America’s longest running play, Shear Madnesscontinues to delight audiences with its unique blend of madcap improvisation and spine-tickling mystery.
Hairdresser Tony Whitcomb and manicurist Barbara DeMarco comb through the tasks of a normal day until concert pianist Isabel Czerny is murdered. Tony, Barbara, and the Shear Madness customers – Eleanor Shubert, Eddie Lawrence, Nick Rosetti and Mikey Thomas – are all suspects.
But whodunit? Witness the fun, put your detective skills to the test, and take a stab at solving the crime! Recommended for all ages. Details
Peter Pan
Wendy Darling is sad to learn that she’s growing too old to stay in the nursery any longer and must move to the adult wing of the house. But when an adventurous young boy offers to fly her to Neverland where she can stay young forever, Wendy is catapulted into an adventure filled with magic pixies, charming pirates and talking trees! As Peter Pan battles his arch-nemesis Captain Hook in DuffleBag Theatre’s fun version of J.M. Barrie’s beloved classic, even grown-ups will feel like kids again! Details
Holiday Inn
Check in for a tap-happy musical about a crooner and a hoofer vying for the affections of a beautiful up-and-coming performer in this new stage adaptation of the beloved 1942 Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire film.
Twenty iconic songs from Irving Berlin’s phenomenal musical catalogue are featured in this celebratory musical spanning four seasons, including “Blue Skies,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “White Christmas,” and more. Details
Beach Boys: A Christmas Murder Mystery
The Beach Boys produced some of the sweetest pop confections of the ’60s, and their classic Christmas album is no exception. But with a troubled genius steering the ship, his domineering dad as their meddling manager, and a greedy cousin for a lead singer, this is one family gathering they’ll be lucky to survive. Pass the stuffing. Details
Mocha Shriners Holiday Magic Show
The Mocha Shriners Present The Holiday Magic Show in support of Shrine activities. Details
HH – J.G. Hagey Hall of the Humanities, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo
Cirque Musica Holiday Presents WONDERLAND
CIRQUE MUSICA presents WONDERLAND is a concert and visual experience where audiences will journey into a world of high-flying adventure with amazing acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks and holiday cheer that is Wonderland. The show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of a symphony orchestra performing the greatest holiday music of all time. Details
Jack and the Beanstalk: The Panto
Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, a giant panto your way comes!
Bring the entire family and cheer for Jack and boo the evil giant as one of the most popular children’s stories of all time becomes larger than life. Details
Swan Lake
This full scale production, set to the music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky and based on Russian folklore and German legend, follows a heroic young prince as he works to free the beautiful swan maiden from an evil spell. Details
The Nutcracker
Come and celebrate a Cambridge seasonal tradition of a timeless classical masterpiece. Michele Hopkins will once again provide colourful choreography along with her Academy Ballet Classique students and special professional guests. Details
455 Myers Road – Cambridge
Support the K of C New Toys for needy Kids Campaign; bring a new unwrapped toy.
The Nutcracker
Come and join the Carousel Dance Company on a magical journey through the land of the sweets as they perform “The Nutcracker”. This classic Christmas show is suitable for all ages. Details
HH – J.G. Hagey Hall of the Humanities, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo
For more information or to buy tickets please contact the Box Office: 519-888-4908
A Cozy Country Christmas
Enjoy some Yuletide cheer and christmas turkey while beiing entertained by some of Country music’s all-time greatest stars and singing traditional Christmas songs along with some of their greatest hit songs. Featuring perfect soundalike and lookalike tributes to Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, Tammy Wynette, Hank Williams, Ray Prince and many more great country stars. Details
Bingemanhans Conference Centre, 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener
Best Christmas Ever Musical
Take a peek into the home of Carol and Brian as they prepare to have “The Best Christmas Ever” with teenagers Ben and Ava. There will be ugly Christmas sweaters, classy umbrellas, and even painted pasta in this fun-filled musical. This is a perfect way to kick off the Christmas season and ponder what a baby in a manger has to do with you.
After the performance, join us for some wonderful Christmas cookies, warm beverages and a photo booth. Details
Sunday, December 9, 2018 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Temple Baptist Church, 400 Holiday Inn Dr., Cambridge
Free; Register
donation of canned food items or mittens appreciated
A Lost & Found Christmas
Popular holiday variety show returns featuring musical guest Michael Kelly Cavan, a gifted KW singer-songwriter. Details
Saturday, December 15, 2018 | 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Emmanuel United Church, 22 Bridgeport Road West, Waterloo
$22 adults, $18 students with ID and children
PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate adventure
X barks the spot in the new tour PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure”! It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration! But first, Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescue Cap’n Turbot from a mysterious cavern. When they do, they also discover a secret pirate treasure map! The PAW Patrol set out over land and sea to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway’s celebration before Mayor Humdinger finds it first! The pups will need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including some help from the newest pup … Tracker! Details
Saturday, December 15, 2018 | 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM
A Very Leila Christmas
Green Light Arts presents the award-winning, lovable, and effervescent artist Leila in her hit show about the adventures of her first Christmas in Canada.
There will be dancing, singing, tree decorating, and sugar cookies… No matter who you are, where you come from, or what you celebrate Leila will capture your heart and show you how we are all much more similar to each other than we are different. A Very Leila Christmas will get you in the Holiday spirit, make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and absolutely leave you in stitches. Details
Sunday, December 23, 2018 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Handel’s Messiah with Joseph Sharon
Join us at Clair Hills Retirement Community for the historical and musical story of the Messiah. Joseph Sharon will be conducting a unique oratorio of the birth, passion, resurrection and second coming of Christ with an educational twist. Details
530 Columbia Street West, Waterloo, ON
The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition
Step into Klara’s magical dream journey as she experiences the Canadian winter landscape for the first time in Canada’s Ballet Jörgen’s holiday classic, The Nutcracker, A Canadian Tradition. Created by acclaimed choreographer Bengt Jörgen to Tchaikovsky’s well-loved score, the show is a holiday favourite for families across Ontario. Details
IV. Other Christmas / Holiday Events across Kitchener-Waterloo Region
Holiday Themed Workshops
- Workshop: Wreath Making on Sunday, November 18, 2018 @ McDougall Cottage Historic Site
- Clay Ornaments on Thursday, November 8, 2018 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM @ Homer Watson House & Gallery
- Simple Gifts Workshop Series: Small Batch Preserves on Saturday, November 17, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Holiday Card Making on Sunday, November 18, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Winter Wreath Decorating Workshop I & II on November 23 – 24, 2018 @ John’s Nursery | $75
- Winter Planters on November 25 & December 2, 2018 @ John’s Nursery | $95
- Simple Gifts Workshop Series: Twig Ornaments on Saturday, November 24, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Winter Crafternoon on Saturday, December 1, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Simple Gifts Workshop Series: Wreath Making on Sunday, December 2, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Snowfolk Workshop on Tuesday, December 04 & 11, 2018 @ The Clay and Glass
- Crafty Christmas on Saturday, December 8, 2018 @ Waterloo Public Library, 35 Albert Street, Waterloo | Drop-in
- Simple Gifts Workshop Series: DIY Spice Blending (Dry Rubs) on Saturday, December 8, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Evergreen Centrepieces on December 9 & 16, 2018 @ John’s Nursery | $65
- Workshop (Family): Paper Ornaments on Saturday, December 15, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
- Workshop (Adults): Paper Ornaments on Saturday, December 15, 2018 @ Schneider Haus National Historic Site
23rd Annual Rotary Tour of Homes
Santa’s Arrival and Free Skate
Be there as the big man in red arrives at the mall for the Christmas season. He’s left his sleigh behind and is riding in on the Cambridge Ice Centre zamboni! Details
Santa’s arrival | 6:00 PM
Free General Public Skate | 6:10 PM – 7:30 PM
Polar Express
St. Jacobs Sparkles
Lighting of the Tree | Thursday 6:30 PM @ St James Lutheran Church
Carol Sing at Red Coral “Jingle on the Square” | Thursday 7 – 9 PM; Friday 7 – 9 PM; Saturday 1 – 6 PM
Brentwood Livery’s Limbusine when you park at nearby Calvary United Church on Thursday & Friday 4:45 – 9 PM
Where to Park (Free)
• Municpal parking lot, 27 Albert Street, St. Jacobs
• Thursday and Friday 6 – 9 PM @ Calvary United Church and take the free Luxury LimoCoach to downtown (approx. 1 km)
Luxury Shuttle: Free
PD Day Activities – Frosty the Snowman
All kids are welcome to drop in for some fun games, crafts ‘n more on your day off school! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Details
Santa Trains
HO HO HO! ROCKIN SANTA’S ONBOARD! An incredible 12 TRAIN DAYS OF CHRISTMAS upbeat family fun Holiday Season must do event! Celebrate the Christmas holiday season with us while onboard our historic train for a fun, lively ride with Santa and his helpers singing all your holiday favourites! Colouring books & crayons provided for all the kids. A reading of a Christmas story. Details
Christmas at the Castle
What is your favourite recipe for Christmas? Here at Castle Kilbride we like to take a whole lot of old and a little bit of new and mix it together for the perfect holiday setting. This is the best time of year to visit the 1877 home and marvel at the lavish décor adorned in festive attire.
Herner’s Victorian Village – After your tour of the elegant Livingston home, continue your experience with a visit to the attic and the Belvedere Gallery, where you’ll see Dave Herner’s miniature Dickens Village on display. This fascinating array of tiny homes and shops will delight visitors with its detail; be sure to stop by, and imagine yourself walking the streets of Victorian England. Details
Workshops at the Museum
Take part in the various workshops at the Waterloo Regional Museum. Details
Tots Workshop: Holiday Ornaments on Saturday, November 24, 2018 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Sock Snowman/Holiday Ornaments: $10 + HST
Winter Centrepiece: $65 + HST
Santa at the Kitchener Market
Saturday, November 24, 2018 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 1, 2018 | 12:30 – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 8, 2018 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Saturday, December 15, 2018 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Friday, December 21, 2018 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 22, 2018 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Pre-registration required
Sensitive Santa
This sensory friendly environment provides lower lightening and a quieter surrounding. Each family that attends will receive a complimentary photo with Santa to commemorate this magical holiday season. This special time to visit with Santa is reserved for children with social, emotional or behavioural needs. Details
Christmas in The Village
Get the spirit of Christmas early with Christmas in the Village, an annual celebration of family and holiday fun. We decorate the village and the businesses setup games for kids and adults alike to enjoy. Grab our fun passport and get it stamped at all participating retailers to be entered into a draw for hundreds of dollars of Belmont Village gift cards. Bring the kids and the pooches for pictures with Santa and get in on horse-drawn carriage rides. Kids will love writing letters to Santa. Details
Christmas in Cambridge
Christmas in Cambridge is a festival of events held annually to celebrate the holiday season. The festival involves several separate activities that are spread out from late November to late December.
Events include Music and Lights in the Village, CP Holiday Train, Candyland, and Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night. Details
The Lights | Friday November 23, 2018 | 8:15 PM @ Hespeler Town Hall
CP Holiday Train | Thursday, November 29 | 3:15 – 4:45 PM @ Malcolm Street Train Station
Candyland | Saturday, December 1 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM @ Central Park, 615 King Street East
Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night | Thursday December 6 | 7:00 PM @ Cambridge City Hall, 50 Dickson Street
Christmas at Woodside National Historic Site
Lamplight– Behold the splendour of a Woodside Christmas by the soft glow of lamplight. Cozy up under the mistletoe and enjoy hot apple cider. Warm up by the crackling fire and sample roasted chestnuts outside on the grounds.
Christmas Mementos– Discover the enchantment of a Victorian Christmas morning. Dip a pen in ink and write a letter to Santa Claus while sampling seasonal cookies and apple cider. Decorate a cookie ornament to take home and hang on your tree.
“In Time for Christmas”: A Christmas Adventure presented by Live History– Experience Christmas in a new way as Woodside’s incredible historic house provides the festive setting for a unique and interactive theatre experience! As you are guided through the house by Live History actors you will work together to solve puzzles and unravel a story. Details
Christmas Mementos | Saturday – Sunday, December 1 – 2, 2018 | 10:00 AM – Noon
“In Time for Christmas”: A Christmas Adventure presented by Live History | Saturday – Sunday, December 8 – 9, 2018 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Experiences start every 15 minutes and last approximately 1 hour, with the last admittance at 4:15 pm)
Christmas Mementos: General admission plus $7.80; Requires registration
In Time for Christmas: $14.70 per person. This program requires advance registration
Book your tickets by calling 519-571-5684.
Christmas at Snyder’s Farm
Join us for an Old Fashioned Christmas at Snyder’s Farm! Visit the farm and create a NEW holiday tradition! Stop in at the North Pole, and enjoy this indoor Christmas Wonderland as your child visits with Santa, don’t forget your camera! Spend family time around a camp fire enjoying complimentary S’mores with us, then end the visit playing in the Candy House Jumper and outdoor Snyder Tree Fort* and Peddle Carts. Details
$7.00 + tax; 2 and under free
Candlelight Christmas Celebration
Dressed for the Christmas season in traditional Victorian style, the Bell Homestead comes to life amid the glow of candles and oil lamps on the first two Saturdays in December. Both evenings feature entertaining tours of the Homestead and Henderson Home by students of local schools, dressed in their finest 19th century attire. In Eliza Bell’s kitchen you’ll enjoy tempting treats prepared in our 1880’s woodstove. The drawing room is the place to be to hear the seasonal sounds of Brantford’s own celtic duo, Cymer on December 1st. Our younger visitors will enjoy a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and making a take home Christmas ornament to put on their own tree. Details
2018 Santa Shuffle
A festive 5K Fun Run or 1K Elf Walk for all ages! Teams, families and individuals all welcome! Raise funds in support of your local Salvation Army in the fight against poverty. Details
Waterloo Park (Westmount North Entrance) Parking is available along Father David Bauer Drive, in the Park and Waterloo Rec Centre.
Milk & Cookies with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Ho Ho Ho! Santa is coming to the Butterfly Conservatory! Have fun decorating your own cookie and get a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and take photos. A great photo opportunity! Details
Children (3-12) $13.00 +HST;
Children (1-2) $6.00 +HST
Flight of White: Experience a Snowfall of Butterflies
This truly unique holiday exhibit transforms the tropical butterfly conservatory into a magical oasis featuring 1000’s of additional Rice Paper butterflies flying freely through the Conservatory. With a wingspan of up to 14cm, the Rice Paper Butterfly, a large white relative of the Monarch, is impossible to miss as it floats through the air moving gently from flower to flower. The Flight of White experience also includes lush white poinsettia flowers, 1000’s of sparkling white lights, and soft strains of classical music playing in the background. Details
Cambridge, ON
FunworX Lunch & Bowl with Santa
Santa is coming to FunworX!!! Lunch and Bowl with Santa! Details
Santa Photos
A great way for kids to give Santa their wish list without the long lines at the mall! Details
Country Christmas
Skate with Santa
Jolly St. Nick will be strapping on his skates and hitting the ice for our annual Skate with Santa! Details
Christmas Open House
Join us for some festive cheer. The historic house will be aglow with Christmas treats to nibble on and live musical entertainment with the Playford Players. This evening will also see the announcement of the 2019 Folk Artist-in-Residence and the Edna Staebler Research Fellow. Details
A Merry Victorian Christmas
For one evening only, visitors can marvel at the glitter and glamour of the decked out 1877 home at night. Live entertainment by Celtic Crossing will bring the house to life. Meet with Mrs. Claus and afterwards enjoy a cup of good ol’ fashioned hot apple cider. Looking for a special present to give? Place a bid on one of our fabulous silent auction items. Details
Christmas Grand Trivia Night
Looking to celebrate the holiday season and need a turn-key Christmas Party solution for your work group, sports team, friends, or family? We’ll do all the work and you’ll have all the fun, at the Christmas Grand Trivia Night. Details
Grand River Raceway, 7445 Wellington County Road 21, Elora, ON
Pizza with Santa
Santa is coming back for another fun filled afternoon! Everyone can enjoy pizza, music, interactive games, prizes and of course Santa!
Adults must attend with children under the age of 10 for the duration of the event. Details
Forest Heights Community Centre, 1700 Queens Blvd
Kitchener, ON
Breakfast with Santa
The snow is falling, fingers and toes are cold; Santa’s Breakfast will warm up both young and old!
Bring the whole family down for a breakfast at the market this year. We will have delicious food, crafts for kids, and Santa Claus himself will be stopping in for a photo-op. Please bring a camera for pictures! Ages 1 and up. Details
Pre-registration required
Breakfast with Santa
Join us for a great breakfast with Santa. Breakfast includes, eggs, sausage, hash browns, baked beans, and pancakes. Details
Creation Station: Jingle Bell Bracelets on December 12 – 16, 2018 | 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM @ TheMuseum
Holiday Open House & Kids in Kilts
It’s our chance to thank you for another unforgettable year and wish you all the best for the holiday season. We’d love it if you would stop in this afternoon to join us for a cup of cheer, a few tasty treats and plenty of Scottish hospitality.Musicians Peter and Potter (Peter Light and Gwen Potter) will be on hand to provide the festive mood. Details
Kiwanis Family Christmas Party
Santa’s Coming to Town. Details
December Holiday Poker
We are keeping our pot-luck style for the food and drink. Bring your favourite snack to share (home made baking, veggies, popcorn, crackers, tim bits, candy – whatever you like!) and bring your favourite drink (wine, pop, water etc.) to share (or don’t)! Details
Axonify, 450 Phillip St, Waterloo
Annual Christmas Walk
As the holiday season approaches, The Dog Haus invites you & yours to join our pack for a winter walk through the twinkling lights of Victoria Park. Put your pup in their most festive gear and bring along your family and friends. We will have some hot cocoa on hand to keep you warm and cozy so grab a travel mug if you have one. Details
Meet outside The Boathouse Victoria Park (57 Jubilee Drive)
Decorating Cookies with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to town – and he wants cookies! Please join us for this fun family event to decorate delicious Christmas cookies. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here as well so bring your cameras for a photo. Details
Pre-registration required
Creation Station: Celebrate Winter Solstice on December 19 – 23, 2018 @ TheMuseum
Visit with Santa
Santa and Mrs Clause will join us to celebrate the season. Don’t forget your camera for a picture. Details
Lunch with Santa!
Join us to meet the one and only Santa Claus, Live in person! Bring your cameras! We’ll have a special Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt with prizes, Colouring Contest, and giveaways to all the kiddies! Plus, Santa’s special helper elf, Lionel, will be here too! Details
Kids Meals are only $4.99!
Call ahead to reserve your spot!
Ugly Holiday Sweater Party
Teens! Get ready to make your cheesiest, tackiest, ugliest holiday sweater. You bring the sweater. We’ll provide the all the ugly for your creation. Ugliest sweater wins a prize.
We’re also making fun cards and DIY gifts that will “sleigh” your holiday shopping list. Details
Special Santa Claus Kids Hop
Erick Traplin and Santa sing Christmas classics for the kids. Details
Starry Night
Enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of a Christmas past as you see the village in its finest lamp-lit beauty. Over 100 lanterns and lamps light up the village and buildings so you can visit each building and activity at your leisure. We invite you to stroll through the grounds and take in the music, food and good cheer under the stars, a sure way to get you and your family into the spirit of Christmas. Seasonal clothing recommended. Details
Child – ages up to 2 Free; Child – ages 3 to 12 $12; Adult – ages 13 and over $25. Advance tickets only. Prices plus HST
Let it Be Christmas
Let it Be Christmas is packed with memorable Beatles tunes and “Beatleized” Christmas carols that serenade you through the story of the nativity on the long and winding road to Bethlehem.
Back for our 11th year, Let it Be Christmas is an enjoyable event for all ages and one of the best Holiday shows in K-W. Details
Christmas in MetroWest
Join Milestone Church as they host a very special Christmas eve service for the whole family. Live music, candlelight Christmas message, and don’t miss a massive cookie bar with a variety of cookies, hot cocoa, apple cider, and more! Details
Christmas Day Buffet
Annual Christmas Day Buffet – a huge buffet loaded with roast beef, ham, turkey and all the trimmings, and yummy desserts. Details
Adults: Early Bird $34.95, After December 14, 2018: $38.95; Kids (4 – 11) $14.95; Kids (3 and under) Free
The Holiday Train reads Dec 29 – should be Nov 29
Thank you – Corrected.
Under Christmas Plays, you have the title of ‘Honk!” but the description is “Beauty and the Beast”. The details are correct for “Beauty…”. “Honk!” is playing at St Jacobs Country Playhouse and is the story of the ugly duckling.