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 7, 2025, 5PM-6:30PM
Cost: Free
Santa and His Reindeer Sleigh at Stratford’s Winter Wander-land
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.
Located across Market Square, Memorial Gardens, and York Street, Winter Wander-land transforms the heart of Stratford into a holiday wonderland filled with cheer. 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: Saturday, November 29th &Sunday, November 30th, 11AM-5PM
Cost: Free
St. Marys Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade and WinterLights Festival
Make the 15-minute drive to St. Marys to enjoy a wonderful Christmas tradition – the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade followed by the WinterLights outdoor light displays at Milt Dunnell Field. Santa and his holiday-themed floats will brighten up the centre of town, traveling from James Street South through downtown.
The WinterLights Festival features over 100 colourful displays, lit each evening from November 15, 2025 to January 1, 2026, 5 PM – 11 PM. Stroll or drive through the festive displays and enjoy a free, family-friendly atmosphere.
Date: Friday, November 14, 2025 | Parade 7 PM
Cost: Free – Donations welcome to support WinterLights.
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 5 & Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5 PM – 8 PM
Saturday, December 13, Saturday, December 20 & Wednesday, December 24, 2025 | 6 PM – 8 PM
Cost: Free
St. Mary’s Museum Holiday 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, November 30, 2025 | 2 PM – 4 PM
Cost: Free
WinterLights Night Market
Held at Milt Dunnell Field, the WinterLights Night Market is one of St. Marys’ most anticipated events. Explore a cozy outdoor market surrounded by more than 100 dazzling light displays, local artisan vendors, and festive food. Enjoy free horse & wagon rides, a firepit with complimentary s’mores kits, a food truck, and even a Santa Shuttle taking guests between the market and the King Family Christmas House.
Date: Friday, December 5 & Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5 PM – 8 PM
Cost: Free
Holiday Light Tour Map
Add to your WinterLights experience with the Holiday Light Tour Map, featuring the best-decorated homes around St. Marys. Pick up a map at local spots including the St. Marys Museum, Pyramid Recreation Centre, and Public Library starting November 28. Homes will be lit nightly through January 1.
Date: November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Cost: Free
Lights On Stratford
Experience Stratford like never before during Lights on Stratford, the city’s award-winning winter light festival that transforms the downtown core into a radiant outdoor art gallery.
Whether you’re strolling through downtown with a hot cocoa in hand or exploring Stratford’s riverside parks, Lights on Stratford offers a one-of-a-kind experience that brings warmth and wonder to cold winter nights.
Date: December 12, 2025 – January 18, 2026 | Thursday to Sunday, 5 PM – 10 PM
Price: 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: Thursday, December 25, 2025, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Price: $55 per person (plus applicable taxes)
The Parlour Inn’s Christmas Day Dinner
For a more intimate holiday experience, The Parlour Inn also offers a Christmas Day Dinner, featuring a thoughtfully crafted menu that highlights the best of the season. Guests can enjoy an elegant and festive meal in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the Inn, perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Price: $55 per person (plus applicable taxes)
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 Stratford Christmas getaway at The Parlour Inn today and make this Christmas one to remember!