These 20 destinations were named the best places for Christmas in Canada by Reader’s Digest Canada. Celebrating Christmas in Canada offers an array of experiences from twinkling lights to cozy markets. Each location offers unique holiday magic, creating an unforgettable festive season. Whether you’re exploring historical streets or immersed in holiday events, these destinations demonstrate that Christmas in Canada is unlike anywhere else, and you don’t even need your passport.
1. Quebec City, Que.
Quebec City consistently tops the list of the most festive destinations in Canada. It’s no surprise that Travel + Leisure also chose it as their top pick. The charming downtown area and holiday markets are sure to put anyone in the festive mood.
2. Dawson City, Yukon
Dawson City, a former gold rush town known for the midnight sun, is also a magical Christmas destination. This year’s winter events include the Christmas Tree Ski and the Dawson City Ice Bowl winter disc golf challenge.
Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village is a quintessential Canadian Christmas destination. Photo by Fareen Karim
3. Toronto, Ont.
Toronto offers a plethora of holiday activities. The world-renowned Distillery Winter Village, skating at Nathan Phillips Square, and Winterfest at Harbourfront Centre are must-visits for anyone in town during the holiday season.
4. Almonte, Ont.
Almonte is so enchanting that it has served as the backdrop for numerous Christmas movies. Visitors can stroll historic streets where old mills have been transformed into boutiques, and sample a wide range of dining options.
5. Ottawa, Ont.
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa provides the perfect backdrop for the holidays. Visitors can skate on the historic Rideau Canal and enjoy the Ottawa Christmas Market.
Niagara Falls lights up every winter. Photo by Billy McDonald/Shutterstock.com.
6. Niagara Falls, Ont.
Experience the breathtaking Niagara Falls during the holidays. The Winter Festival of Lights, Canada’s “largest free outdoor light festival,” runs until Jan. 4. Local restaurants and bars also host events to celebrate the season.
7. Saskatoon, Sask.
Saskatoon may not be the first city that comes to mind for Christmas, but it has plenty to offer. The BHP Enchanted Forest light display and The Jolly Jumble, an indoor market and light festival, are just a couple of the holiday attractions.
8. St. John’s, Nfld.
St. John’s, with its colorful historic buildings and dramatic landscape, is a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas. The city also hosts Mummers, a quirky Christmas festival where locals disguise themselves in costumes.
9. Vancouver, B.C.
Vancouver hosts several Christmas events, such as Lights at Lafarge, a free outdoor winter lights display, and the Shipyards Christmas Market. Visitors can enjoy gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate at the Vancouver Christmas Market.
10. Calgary, Alta.
Calgary is brimming with holiday activities. Highlights include Zoolights at the Wilder Calgary Zoo, a visit to Santa’s Polar Palace, and a stroll through the Holiday Gardens.
11. Bay Roberts, Nfld.
The 28th annual Bay Roberts Festival of Lights illuminates this town located on the north shore of Conception Bay. The festival, home to over 40,000 lights, features events for visitors of all ages and is open every night until Jan. 4.
12. Edmonton, Alta.
Edmonton hosts numerous events during the holiday season. The Edmonton Christmas Market offers family-friendly workshops, and there are plenty of places to view Christmas lights.
Midland, Ontario is full of small-town charm year-round. Photo by @townofmidland/Instagram.
13. Midland, Ont.
Midland, located on Georgian Bay in Simcoe County, Ont., is known for its rich Indigenous history. Visitors can dine inside a crystal cabin or explore the newly renovated King Street.
14. Airdrie, Alta.
Airdrie’s annual holiday celebration, the Airdrie Festival of Lights, is a highlight of the season. Located in Nose Creek Park, the event features a million dollars’ worth of displays, mini train rides, and bonfires for sipping hot chocolate.
15. Victoria, B.C.
Victoria, known for its historic architecture, bustling harbour, and beautiful gardens, is a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas. Don’t miss the Festival of Trees Victoria and Merridale’s Annual Christmas Light-Up & Shopping Night.
16. Mont-Tremblant, Que.
In winter, Mont-Tremblant transforms into an enchanting Christmas village, offering music, storytelling, and entertainment. After enjoying winter activities, check out any of the nearby cozy restaurants for a variety of cuisine.
Simcoe is home to Ontario’s oldest light festival. Photo by Simcoe Christmas Panorama/Facebook.
17. Simcoe, Ont.
Simcoe is home to the Simcoe Christmas Panorama, an annual event that transforms the community’s downtown area into a winter wonderland. Visitors can view themed displays and thousands of lights.
18. Barkerville, B.C.
Barkerville, located in the Cariboo Mountains of British Columbia, is a historic town full of Christmas charm. With 125 heritage buildings, period displays, and satellite museums, there’s plenty to see and do.
19. Saint-Thérèse, Que.
Saint-Thérèse is an unforgettable winter getaway. Enjoy Gai-Luron’s ski, fatbike, and snowshoeing trails. In December, the town hosts Little Christmas Saturdays, featuring cookie decorating and Christmas plays for children.
20. Fernie, B.C.
The holiday season is the perfect time to hit the slopes in Fernie. The town hosts multiple holiday events, one of which includes a chance to ski and take photos with Santa himself.
Lead photo by Lopolo/Shutterstock.com
