Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year, so be sure to spend it in the most enchanting town of Stratford, Ontario. Whether you’re visiting for a festive getaway or just for the day, The Parlour Inn offers the perfect home base for your holiday adventures. Here is a preview of the seasonally-inspired Stratford holiday activities that will be taking place this holiday season.
Stratford Santa’s Parade of Lights
After you enjoy a hearty breakfast, take part in a variety of festive activities throughout Stratford, including one of Southern Ontario’s best Santa Claus parades at Stratford’s Santa’s Parade of Lights. Starting in the late afternoon, you can hear carolling at City Hall and indulge in free refreshments. At 5 PM, the first float, expertly designed by Christmas enthusiasts, will arrive. From that moment on, you and your family will get to see a parade of beautiful and illuminated floats that aim to warm attendee’s hearts and remind them what the holidays are all about.
The Stratford Santa Claus parade will run for just over an hour, and the final float will feature the main event – Santa and his reindeer! Don’t miss the unparalleled Santa’s Parade of Lights, it’s sure to brighten your evening and get you all ready for a fabulous Christmas season.
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024, 5PM-6:30PM
Cost: Free
Santa and His Reindeer Sleigh at Stratford Market Square
Santa is back in Stratford for the Winter Wander-land weekend, and he’s bringing his reindeer sleigh to Market Square! Sponsored by Sutton Group, this festive event invites kids (and kids at heart) to visit Santa from 11 AM to 3 PM and share their holiday wishes. Don’t forget your camera for a special photo opportunity with Santa—whether you’re making your wish list or introducing your pets to the jolly old elf himself.
While you’re there, be sure to bring your Letters to Santa (addressed to: Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0, Canada) so his elves can make sure they’re delivered straight to the North Pole.
Date: November 30th-December 1st, 11AM to 3PM
Cost: Free
St. Marys Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade and Lighting of the Festive Outdoor Light Display
The holidays are just around the corner, so it’s time to start the festive fun. Make the 15-minute drive to St. Mary’s to enjoy a wonderful Christmas tradition – the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade and festive outdoor light display. Santa and his holiday-themed floats will brighten up the centre of St. Mary’s, traveling from James Street South through the downtown core. This is a great event for families, and it’s a crowd-pleaser year after year. Don’t forget to bundle up, and get ready to enjoy handcrafted decorations that will transform the floats into conduits of the Christmas spirit.
Date: The Santa Claus Parade takes place on November 15th, 2024, 7:00PM and the festive light displays will then be lit each evening from 5:00 to 11:00 pm from November 15th, 2024, until January 1st, 2025.
Cost: Free. You can also support the WinterLights by sponsoring a display or donating.
Horse-drawn wagon rides at Milt Dunnel
After the Santa Claus Parade, check out the amazing light display at Milt Dunnel. Also known as the Flats, Milt Dunnel is decorated by passionate community members each year with thousands of stunning Christmas lights. From Nativity scenes to dinosaurs, you will find countless sparkling scenes that will highlight the enjoyment of a lively and festive sleigh ride throughout Stratford’s winter wonderland. You can experience the light displays by car or on foot, but we highly suggest opting for a horse-drawn sleigh ride instead.
There is nothing more festive (or romantic) than a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the brightly lit field where you’ll be treated to the townspeople’s awe-inspiring creativity and dedication to making Christmas in Stratford a spectacular event for guests from far and wide.
Date: Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7, 2024, 5PM-8PM, and Saturday, December 14, Saturday, December 21 and Tuesday, December 24, 2024, 6PM-8PM
Cost: Free
St. Mary’s Museum Christmas Open House
The St. Mary’s Museum is a celebrated heritage site with quality displays that pay homage to a simpler time. During the Christmas season, the museum looks back to long before online shopping when Christmas catalogs were a very popular way to shop for loved ones, as you flipped through the pages to find the perfect gift from local artisans, bakers and more. During the Open House, you’ll be treated to live music, festive treats, a silent auction and wonderful door prizes.
Date: Sunday, December 1st, 2024, 2PM-4PM
Cost: Free
WinterLights Night Market
Experience the magic of the season at the WinterLights Night Market! Held at the beautiful Milt Dunnell Field, this enchanting event invites you to explore a stunning display of winter lights while enjoying a cozy, festive market atmosphere.
Stroll through the intimate market, where you’ll find a curated selection of local vendors and artisans offering unique gifts, crafts, and holiday treats. As you wander through the sparkling lights, hop on a free horse and wagon ride around the loop road or gather around the firepit for a warm and festive experience. Plus, enjoy complimentary smores kits—perfect for roasting by the fire. With a food truck on-site serving delicious bites, this is a great way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Date: Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7, 2024, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
The Parlour Inn’s Christmas Day Brunch
For a holiday dining experience you won’t forget, The Parlour Inn offers an indulgent Christmas Day Brunch that includes an assortment of seasonal delights to tempt every taste. The elegant and festive atmosphere of the Inn makes it the perfect place to enjoy a Christmas feast with family and friends.
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
Celebrate Christmas in Stratford with the Parlour Inn
Stratford is the perfect place to spend Christmas. There are so many amazing family-friendly and romantic activities that you can take part in to ensure this is your brightest and best holiday season yet. You can have the perfect Christmas getaway by booking accommodations at The Parlour Inn, located within walking distance from many of Stratford’s Christmas events. Be naughty or nice in Stratford this Christmas – we promise you’ll enjoy great food, special beverages, and festive activities regardless of which list you’re on.
Book your stay at The Parlour Inn today and make this Christmas one to remember!