Toronto 
There are many parts of Stratford that make it worth a weekend trip almost any time of the year. This includes the exciting arts, culture, and history around the city, as well as the many events and celebrations. And winter season in Stratford is no exception.
Credit: Lights On Stratford
This time of the year promises those events, different ways to explore the city, food and drink experiences, and all of this among beautiful winter scenery. Take in more of the snowy scenery from the Avon River Valley, Stratford Trails, the Wildwood Conservation Area to the south, or the Huron shoreline about an hour to the west.
Lights on Stratford
The Lights on Stratford is a winter and holiday celebration that creates a merry, bright atmosphere in town through January 18, 2026. There will be several displays across Stratford, from the artistic to the immersive, and the interactive exhibits. This self-guided light tour brings you through the town’s major parks or historic areas like the Avon River Valley and downtown Stratford.
More Winter Events in Stratford
As Lights on Stratford winds down for January, more events will begin in town! These winter events in Stratford include activities for all ages, and more celebration of the local arts scene.
- Celebrate winter during Stratford Winterfest with ice sculptures, food trucks, and fun activities for all ages. Enjoy live shows, blacksmith demos, alpacas, mini putt, snowshoeing, scavenger hunts, and more. Highlights include maple taffy, children’s games, and the Great Canadian Lumberjack Show. Warm up by fire pits or explore food vendors and activities for a memorable winter day!
- The town of Stratford is known for a bustling arts scene with festivals, galleries, exhibits, and more, to celebrate local culture. Escape indoors this winter to the Gallery Stratford to view rotating exhibits, or the Starlight Pub for weekly live music.
- Shop local goodies, food, art, décor, and much more, from the Saturday morning Farmers’ Market in Stratford.
The Best of Winter Dining in Stratford
The local cuisine in Stratford includes almost anything for preferences, tastes, and different types of atmospheres. You’ll find international dining, cafes, the world-famous bakeries and confectioneries, pubs and breweries, and quick takeout spots.
- There are two major self-guided dining/drink tours to take in Stratford: the Chocolate Trail, or the Bacon & Ale Trail. These trails conveniently combine and make it easy to follow both on foot at the same time. Purchase special Trail Passes from the local vendors listed here; passes include vouchers for a certain number of stops along the Chocolate or Bacon and Ale Trails and more insight into the local vendors you’re about to meet.
- Winter recreation or activities usually call for a warm or cozy drink. There are several options within Stratford for these warm winter drinks, plus fresh food and hearty meals: try the Buzz Stop Fine Coffees & Teas, The Ashborne Cafe, Balzac’s, or the Livery Yard.
- Downtown Stratford is where you can find a great number of local restaurants, from fast and casual food to fine dining. This includes locations like Downie Street, Wellington Street, or Ontario Street.
The History of Stratford
The best way to discover the historical sites and attractions around Stratford is a self-guided walk.
- There are a lot of well-preserved examples of late-19th-century architecture around town, including the centrally located City Hall and National Historic Site. The sidewalks and trails from City Hall can take your trip into historic downtown, along the historically significant Avon River, or to the edge of town.
- At the edge of Stratford is where you’ll get to discover more history with the Stratford Perth Museum. The museum offers exhibits and information on an array of local history, from the railway history, to quilt art, to Justin Bieber’s local connections. Also available from the museum this winter are free snowshoe rentals for exploring the grounds.
Outdoor Winter Fun & Recreation
The trails surrounding the Avon River Valley are the best place to start for a winter walk. These walking trails run along both sides of the river and connect to the North Shore & Avon Loop. Travel further west along the river’s edge to the local gardens. While not in bloom, these areas are equally scenic in winter as in spring and summer.
The T.J. Dolan Trail offers a scenic route for walking or cross-country skiing.
Outside Stratford and into the more rural parts of southern Ontario, hikers and snowshoers can find additional trails at the Wildwood Conservation Area (on the north side of Wildwood Lake). These trails are long and extensive enough to fill a full day of adventure.
15+ Things to Do Outdoors During Winter in Stratford and Perth County
Winter Stays
- The Bruce invites you to a luxurious Winter Escape. Enjoy up to 40% savings on extended stays with flexible booking. Discover the charm of Stratford’s historic streets, fine dining, and boutique shopping. Relax in elegant comfort with personalized service tailored to ensure your stay is memorable and serene.
- The Parlour Inn offers boutique accommodations near Stratford’s renowned theatres and attractions.
Come back in Spring for a more fabulous experience.
