Toronto 
Markham is welcoming the delightful Christmas and holiday season with tree lighting, grand fireworks and the official Santa Claus Parade.
Credit: Main Street Markham
Head to Main Street Markham on Friday, November 28th, for the Annual Festival of Lights, organized by Main Street Markham BIA. The BIA encompasses one of Ontario’s oldest communities.
From 5:30 to 9 p.m., visitors can explore three festive zones packed with entertainment.
The Main Street Central Stage sets the tone with performances from the Candy Cane Carolers, Unionville Theatre Co., and Markham singer-songwriter STEPH.
Santa makes his grand entrance at 8 p.m., just ahead of the annual tree lighting and fireworks at 8:15 p.m.
An outdoor artificial skating rink will be open all evening, complete with free skate and helmet rentals, cozy firepits and hot chocolate. Nearby, Canlan Sports hosts a sports play zone featuring hockey games and a Zamboni display. Santa’s Village offers photos with Santa, festival snacks and a trackless train ride through the village.
It’s a magical evening packed with holiday cheer, perfect for creating cherished memories with family and friends on Main Street.
Credit: City of Markham
The following day, line up the Main Street to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The Santa Claus Parade will begin at 11 a.m. on November 29th and feature fun floats, including marching bands.
The parade is organized by the Markham Sunrise Rotary Club and the city of Markham.
The parade will follow Main Street from the intersection of Main Street and Hwy 7 East to 16th Ave.
Main Street Markham will be closed from Highway 7 to Bur Oak Avenue, and Highway 7 from Major Buttons Drive to Main Street Markham will be closed from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All activities are free to attend.
Trip Planning – Markham
Markham Santa Claus Parade
Annual Festival of Lights
Start off the Holiday Season with live music, carollers, fire artists, and a visit from Santa to help light up the Christmas tree and Fireworks!
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 | 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
8:15 p.m.: Kick-off to the holiday season including tree-lighting & fireworks!
Where: Main St, Markham
Santa Claus Parade
51st Annual Santa Claus Parade.
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: From the intersection of Main Street and Hwy 7 East to 16th Ave.
