Discover the Magic of the Holidays in Oakville: Festive Events, Lights and Santa Await!
OAKVILLE – This holiday season, Visit Oakville invites visitors to experience the festive charm of the town. From twinkling lights and tree lighting ceremonies to boutique shopping, delicious dining, and exciting holiday events, Oakville offers a magical holiday experience for all. Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario with picturesque streets and vibrant business districts, Oakville is the perfect destination for those looking to celebrate the season in style.
“Oakville truly shines during the holidays,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director of Visit Oakville. “From our festive events to our welcoming atmosphere, there’s something special about celebrating the season here. Whether you’re enjoying our stunning waterfront, shopping at our local boutiques in our charming downtown area, or dining at one of our exceptional restaurants, we welcome visitors to come and experience the joy of the holidays in Oakville.”
Here are Oakville’s top must-see holiday events for 2024:
• Light up the Night – November 15, 5:00-9:00 p.m. – Join in for the kick-off to Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday as they light up the night. The heart of Oakville’s historic downtown will come alive with holiday cheer as the community gathers to light the town’s Christmas tree. Towne Square will also have live entertainment featuring the CW Carolling Champions The Sugar Plums.
• Oakville Santa Claus Parade – November 16, 9:00 a.m. – A highlight of the holiday season, the Oakville Santa Claus Parade brings joy to families and visitors alike. Watch as festive floats, local performers, and, of course, Santa himself parade through Oakville’s streets, spreading holiday cheer to all.
• At Home in Bronte for the Holidays – November 23, 3:00-7:00 p.m. – Bronte’s charming Market Square will sparkle as the village hosts its annual tree lighting, a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
• 30th Annual Kerr Village Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market – November 30, starts at 2:00 p.m. – Join the festive spirit in Kerr Village for a joyful tree lighting event that brings the community together. Enjoy the Holiday Pop Up Market and the live musical entertainment that will take place. Featuring the tree lighting ceremony at 5:45 p.m.
• Holiday Lights by the Lake – December 1 – February 2025 – One of Oakville’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Holiday Lights by the Lake at Coronation Park, will illuminate the waterfront with thousands of sparkling lights. Stroll or drive through the park with family and friends and enjoy the enchanting holiday display and music, which runs throughout the festive season.
Downtown Oakville’s Holiday Cheer – Various dates.
➢ Winter Wonderland of Lights – December 1 – January 2025 – Take in the wonder of the season at the Winter Wonderland of Lights. Displays throughout Downtown from Towne Square to Centennial Square (Navy/Lakeshore).
➢ Silent Holiday Disco – November 23, 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. – Back with a beat, this Silent Disco night is all about grooving and moving under our twinkly festive tree lights to iconic Christmas Tunes in Towne Square.
➢ The Nutcracker – November 29-December 1 – Experience the magic of The Nutcracker this holiday season with the Oakville School of Classical Ballet’s elaborate production at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts.
➢ Free Hot Cocoa & Fire Pits – November 30, December 7, 14, 2:00-6:00 p.m. – Stop by Downtown Oakville’s vintage airstream in Towne Square to pick up a free hot cocoa and warm up by the fire pits.
➢ Visit with Santa in Centennial Square – December 7,8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 2:00-6:00 p.m.
– Meet Santa in his Cozy Cottage in Centennial Square (Navy/Lakeshore). From 2:00-3:00 p.m., Santa will walk the streets of Downtown Oakville before settling in at his cottage for booked appointments.
Holiday festivities at the Oakville Museum – Various dates. The Oakville Museum is getting into the holiday spirit with many events including:
➢ Visit with Santa – November 23 – Don’t miss Santa’s special visit! Start your adventure at Oakville’s First Post Office, where you can write a letter to Santa. Then, take a tour of the Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for Christmases past. Create magic in the Coach House before meeting Santa in his cozy sitting room.
➢ Winter Craft & Tour – November 29, 30, December 27, January 3 – Take part in the Winter Craft & Tour where you and your child can create a special craft and enjoy a guided tour of the museum.
➢ Christmas Tour & Treat – December 7 – Enjoy the historic Erchless Estate beautifully decorated for an 1800s Christmas, ending with a festive treat and hot beverage.
Holiday markets – Be sure to check out the various holiday markets and bazaars happening throughout the season for unique gifts, festive treats and local treasures including:
➢ Holiday Market at Film.ca Cinemas – November 16, 10:00-5:00 p.m. – Get ready to shop unique gifts, artisanal goods, and other holiday goodies.
➢ The Bronte Historical Society’s Christmas Show – November 16 – Showcasing a beautiful collection of arts and crafts perfect for holiday gifting and festive cheer.
➢ The Oakville Art Society’s Christmas Art Market – November 23-24, 11:00-4:00 p.m.
– Find unique artisanal gifts such as cards, jewellery, baked goods, art, books, fashion and more!
➢ Bronte’s Annual Handmade Market – December 1, 10:00-4:00 p.m. – Small intimate market with a variety of vendors.
In addition to these festive events, Oakville’s boutique shopping and amazing dining experiences make it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can find unique gifts, explore one-of-a-kind shops, and enjoy local cuisine that caters to every palate. With its charming downtown areas and stunning waterfront views, Oakville is the perfect place to enjoy the magic of the holiday season.
Looking for a place to stay in Oakville? With so many great hotel options to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay is easy. Explore our accommodations and book your stay today to experience the best of Oakville during the holidays!
For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website:
www.visitoakville.com/events.
About Visit Oakville:
Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry.
For more information, please contact:
Christa Poole
Visit Oakville
christa.poole@visitoakville.com
