8 Beautiful Small Towns In Ontario That Are Like Stepping Into A Sparkly Christmas Dream

Live like you're the main character of a Christmas film.

Woman standing on steps of a building. Right: Decorated street in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Woman standing on steps of a building. Right: Decorated street in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Lead Writer, Travel

You can live like you're in a real-life Hallmark movie at these beautiful small towns around Ontario. Filled with Christmas vibes, these spots will warm your heart as you wander through decked-out streets.

If you're looking for a festive day trip in Ontario, these small towns are worth keeping in mind.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Why You Need To Go: With a holiday market, festive theatre performances, and twinkly store windows, this "authentic Christmas village" is always a good spot to enjoy the holiday season.

Website

Almonte

Address: Almonte, ON

Why You Need To Go: This Ontario town is so charming, it's been the set for several holiday films. You can stroll the quaint streets and pretend you're the star of your very own Christmas film. You'll also want to stop by Hummingbird Chocolate, which is said to have the "world's best chocolate."

Website

Bayfield

Address: Bayfield, ON

Why You Need To Go: This beach town transforms into a "'Hallmark Christmas story" each holiday season. The snowy streets will take you back in time, and there are tons of local shops with festive windows to browse from.

Website

Collingwood

Address: Collingwood, ON

Why You Need To Go: You can wander along streets decked out in holiday splendour at this spot. Collingwood is a dreamy place to visit during the holiday season, and it's just a short trip away from Blue Mountain Village. You can enjoy a Christmas market, festive music, and more.

Website

Perth

Address: Perth, ON

Why You Need To Go: If you've ever wanted to spend Christmas in Europe, then look no further than this fairytale town. From a dazzling festival of lights to visits with the Grinch, this town lets you live your best Christmas life.

Website

Blue Mountain Village

Price: Free

When: November 18, 2022, to January 8, 2023

Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON

Why You Need To Go: The Holiday Magic at Blue Mountain event is like stepping into the North Pole. The village is draped in garland and you can follow a sparkling light trail through the area.

Website

Uxbridge

Holiday Trail in Uxbridge, Ontario.

Holiday Trail in Uxbridge, Ontario.

@tracywalkerphoto via Discover Uxbridge

Address: Uxbridge, ON

Why You Need To Go: This twinkly town is a cute spot to grab a drink and window shop. You can also head to the nearby Fantasy of Lights and enjoy free Christmas displays.

Website

Gananoque

Address: Gananoque, ON

Why You Need To Go: You can visit a beautiful lake town and enjoy Christmas treats, a Santa Claus parade, twinkly lights, and more this holiday season.

Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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