Things to Do and See in Stratford During the Winter

Things to Do and See in Stratford During the Winter

The quaint town of Stratford is a wonderful place to spend the day or the weekend away in Ontario. A cultural mecca full of great places to explore, the winter season makes for a perfect time to visit the charming town of Stratford. Spend your wintertime in Stratford by taking part in your favourite things to do and see in our festive town. Nestled in Southwestern, Ontario, Stratford is a hub for foodies, theatregoers and those who are passionate about all the sights, sounds and smells that define a fantastic holiday season.

See all the great things to do and see in Stratford during the chilly winter season.

Explore Stratford’s Great Food and Drink Trails

Festive red and white scene, with hats and christmas treats.

Image courtesy of Destination Stratford
Stratford is a culinary haven in Southwestern Ontario and a must-see for craft beer connoisseurs and foodies alike. Take part in some of the great food and drink trails throughout our great town:

Stratford Bacon & Ale Trail

What could be better than a mixture of everyone’s favourite meat and beverage? Nothing, and that’s why this brewery tour is one of the most popular wintertime activities in Stratford. Choose five stops on a self-guided tour of different restaurants and retail locations and get to know the tastier side of Stratford.

Each stop will offer you a delicious ode to the coupling of beer and bacon. Plus, you’ll get to meet the brains behind these beautiful combinations, as our chefs and brewers warmly welcome you to each stop.

Stratford’s Chocolate Trail

Take part in a self-guided tour of Stratford’s greatest chocolate creations. There are countless businesses that participate in this chocolatey adventure, including Rheo Thompson, Black Swan Brewing Co. and Rocky Mtn Chocolate.

At each stop, you’ll be offered a chocolate treat and welcome to try anything else available on the menu – or in-store – dependent on whether you only have a sweet tooth or want to try something savoury.

Visit the Stratford Slow Food Market

If you’re visiting Stratford during the winter months, be sure to include a visit to the Stratford Slow Food Market. This great local market is a must-see all year-round, and the winter season is no exception. From early November until the end of April, this indoor market takes place inside the Festival Square at 10 Downie Street from 10am to 1pm.

Explore Stratford Winterfest

Family having fun at Stratford Winterfest

Once starting as a great one-day event, the Stratford Winterfest has now become an annual winter tradition in Stratford for over twenty years. The Stratford Winterfest  is a multi-day winter festival that takes place in January and features a number of exciting events, activities and displays that the whole family will enjoy. Bundle up, gather the family, and head to Stratford this January for a day of winter family fun.

Explore Downtown Stratford Shops and the Market Square

When it comes to winter, the whole of Stratford comes together to ensure our visitors feel warmly welcomed – no matter how cold it may be. Spend the weekend shopping in Stratford’s shops where you’ll find unique gift ideas and great treats for yourself.

The Market Square is a wonderful place to have a drink and walk hand-in-hand with your loved ones, as you enjoy the festive lights and light-hearted winter atmosphere our community enjoys creating.

Outdoor Winter Activities in Stratford

Family trying different outdoor activities, like ice skating, in Stratford

Stratford isn’t just about food and shopping during the winter – there are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From skating to snowy hikes, Stratford offers a variety of ways to embrace the winter season outdoors.

Ice Skating at Stratford’s Arenas

The City of Stratford boasts three public arenas with four ice surfaces, offering plenty of opportunities for winter fun ice skating. Whether you’re at the William Allman Arena, the Dufferin Arena, or the Stratford Rotary Complex, there’s a rink for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert, the rink is perfect for a leisurely skate with friends and family. Don’t forget to warm up with a hot drink afterward!

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing at Stratford Conservation Area

For those who love nature and winter sports, Stratford Conservation Area offers trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Explore the scenic winter landscape surrounded by trees and wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful winter experience just minutes from downtown.

Winter Arts and Entertainment in Stratford

People watching a Christmas concert for things to do in the winter in Stratford

Winter in Stratford is also an exciting time for those who love arts and culture. The town’s vibrant arts scene shines during the colder months, offering many opportunities to immerse yourself in local performances, galleries, and exhibits.

Stratford Festival Theatre Winter Performances

While the Stratford Festival Theatre is known for its summer productions, the winter months also feature a variety of performances. Whether it is a special holiday show, intimate productions, or concerts, the Festival Theatre offers an opportunity to experience world-class performances in the heart of Stratford.

Visit Local Art Galleries and Exhibits

Stratford is home to several art galleries that showcase works from talented local and regional artists. The winter season often brings new exhibits, so be sure to stop by galleries like the Gallery Stratford or the Stratford Perth Museum to experience the town’s creative spirit.

Plan Your Perfect Winter Getaway in Stratford

Family bonding during a winter getaway to Parlour Inn

Stratford offers the ideal mix of winter charm, from cozy cafes and festive events to outdoor adventures and world-class performances. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see that make the town a perfect winter destination. After a day of exploration, retreat to the comfort of your accommodations at the centrally located The Parlour Inn. With its welcoming atmosphere, historic charm, and convenient location, it’s the perfect place to warm up, unwind, and make your spirits bright. Book your stay today and experience the magic of winter in Stratford!