What to do in Stratford for Christmas on a Holiday Getaway
Want to get in the holiday spirit? Then consider a winter getaway in Ontario that will have you singing along with carolers, browsing an enchanted Christmas Market, and getting in the gift-giving mood with one-of-a-kind treasures. Where is this? Not the North Pole but Stratford Ontario. There are endless reasons to visit Stratford for Christmas, from its Victorian Christmas feel to the warm and inviting people. But in case you needed more, here are 6 festive things to do in Stratford for Christmas.
There are always endless things to do in town and the fun doesn’t stop when Festival Season has come to a close. Every season in Stratford lends to a new mix of incredible experiences, memories to be had, and fun for all ages. But November and December in Stratford sparkles with the hint of magic. While there’s so much going on in Stratford, from tea parties at Revival House to festive concerts, the following are my top picks for things to do in Stratford for Christmas!
If you’re looking for amazing winter getaways in Ontario then add Stratford Ontario to your list of places to go! This charming city with a small town vibe is full of festive activities. Start planning your holiday getaway with this list of the best things to do in Stratford for Christmas.
Shop the Christmas Trail
One thing I love about Stratford is its desire to encourage visitors to wander its downtown and support local businesses. And a great way to do this is on one of their many trails, there’s the Chocolate Trail and the Bacon & Ale Trail which both run all year long. But for those looking for something festive to do in Stratford, there’s the Christmas Trail which only runs from November through December.
How does it work? You can purchase your Christmas Trail package online or at the Stratford Tourism building downtown. The package comes with 6 vouchers and a trail map and pamphlet with all of the businesses participating. Most are within Stratford’s downtown and a few are located just outside Stratford in neighbouring St. Marys and Shakespeare. Each business participating offers a specific item that you can get in exchange for one of your vouchers.
Some of my favourite finds on the Christmas Trail include a lovely Lucia candle from Bradshaws, a fun and handy foldable tote from Touchmark, and an ornament from the Stratford Festival Shop that is stuffed with fabric from the Festival’s costumes.
Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone or for yourself, the Christmas Trail is an incredible value. The package costs $40 but within a few items it pays for itself. And it’s a lovely way to explore downtown Stratford’s shops, especially at this time of year when they’re all dressed in cedar, big bows, and sparkling lights.
TIP: If you are visiting Stratford for the day and planning to do the Christmas Trail try to do it during the week or on a Saturday. Some shops are not open on Sundays and Mondays.
November 1 – December 20, 2025
Related Post: Things to do in Perth County
Visit a Stratford Christmas Market
There’s no better way to get in the festive spirit than with a visit to a Christmas market. And Stratford is home to a number of Christmas markets!
The Stratford Sparkles Christmas Market takes place at the Tom Patterson Theatre. It features over 50 vendors selling everything from handmade gifts to seasonal treats. November 30, 2025
At the Stratford Makers Christmas Market that takes place at the Stratford Rotary Complex is a great spot to shop for the holidays. November 21 – 23, 2025
Looking for more? Check out these Christmas Markets in Ontario
Attend Santa’s Parade of Lights
Nothing says Christmas is coming than a Santa Clause Parade. Stratford’s is called Parade of Lights and shows off over 50 floats parading through town. There’s also carolers singing, free hot chocolate and food in front of City Hall. It’s a great way to end the day as it starts as the Christmas Market wraps up.
December 7, 2025
Enjoy Lights on Stratford
It isn’t Christmas in Stratford without their latest festival, Lights On Stratford’s Winter Festival of Lights. This innovative festival brings a whole new meaning to enjoying festive lights.
Stratford comes alive with incredible and colourful light displays that range from structures, like 2021’s Sky Castle at Market Square to the fun bird theme of 2025. Plus, there’s fun displays lighting up buildings throughout town.
December 12, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Looking for more light displays? Check out these holiday lights in Ontario!
Christmas Craft Festival
Another great event in Stratford to help get you in the festive spirit and maybe even find a unique gift or two is at the Christmas Craft Festival. The annual event takes place the Stratford Rotary Complex.
Here you’ll find one of a kind, handmade gifts made by local artisans with over 50 vendors to browse. There’s everything from jewellery to clothing and paintings to festive décor items. Beyond the shopping for great gifts, there’s also plenty of treats too!
November 7 – 9, 2025
Do an Open Kitchen Class
Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or not, Stratford Chefs School Open Kitchen has an awesome way to try something new with their Holidays Hanukkah Party where you can enjoy cooking decorating, learn to play dreidel, and learn to make and try traditional Hanukkah foods like potato latkes and sfganiyot.
Festive Day Trips from Stratford
If you’re staying in Stratford on a winter getaway and looking for more festive things to do near Stratford then you’re in luck! There are a bunch of great small towns near Stratford that host an array of fun things to do for the holidays.
St. Marys
Whether you’re visiting Stratford for the weekend or just a day trip this holiday season consider popping over to St. Marys. Only a 20 minute drive from Stratford, St. Marys has their holiday light display up in Milt Dunnell Field. Enjoy over 100 displays either on foot or by car. And closer to Christmas their offering horse-drawn wagon rides.
November 24 – January 1, 2025
Another must-visit stop in St Marys for Christmas is at St. Marys Museum. They run an open house with festive treats, live music and crafts for kids.
December 7 2025
Baden
What’s more enchanting than a castle at Christmas? Castle Kilbride may not be your traditional castle but this grand Victorian mansion, which was built in 1877, is a dreamy day trip from Stratford. Only a half hour west of Stratford lies the small town of Baden where you’ll find Castle Kilbride all dressed up in her festive garb, with beautiful Christmas trees, sparkling ornaments, and extravagant décor. There’s also a special addition this year, a charming Dicken’s Village display.
November 19 – January 4, 2025
Blyth
If you’re looking to take in a play you’re in luck! While the Stratford Festival has wrapped for the season but is less than an hour drive away you can take in A Huron County Christmas Carol in Blyth. And this year the star is a blind, young boy playing Tiny Tim from Stratford that will knock your stockings off!
Select dates from December 3 – 21, 2025
Where to Stay in Stratford in Winter
If you’re looking to spend a weekend in Stratford or a few days you’ll need to find the perfect place to stay. There are so many great bed & breakfasts, inns, and hotels. I share all the best in my guide to hotels in Stratford. Many of these offer reduced rates during the off-season!
Looking for more ideas on what to do?
Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Stratford
Tips for Enjoy the Chocolate Trail in Stratford
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