Ontario has an 'authentic Christmas village' with sparkling streets and horse-drawn carriages
It looks like a twinkly Hallmark town.
A small town in Ontario.
There's a real-life Christmas town right here in Ontario, and it's every bit as magical as the ones you've watched in your favourite holiday movies. With shimmering streets, glowing shops, and Victorian-era charm, it's like stepping into a scene from a postcard.
You can wander along the snow-dusted sidewalks, sip festive-themed lattes, and glide around glistening ice rinks for a magical winter adventure.
Offering old-world vibes and a nostalgic holiday atmosphere, it's a magical place to visit this holiday season.
The destination
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picturesque small town located under 2 hours from Toronto.
According to Niagara-on-the-Lake Tourism, the area transforms into an "authentic Christmas Village" with sparkling shops, festive events, glowing cafes and more.
The Victorian-era streets are decked out in garlands and bows, making the downtown look straight out of a Hallmark film.
Quaint boutiques shimmer around every bend, and warm cafes with glowing windows are filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon.
Vintage Hotels says that "this Christmas in Niagara-on-the-Lake promises to be one of the most special yet," so it's worth planning that getaway.
From November 1 to December 21, 2025, Niagara-on-the-Lake becomes an "Ultimate Victorian Christmas Village" with "decorations, holiday cheer and all the fixings you'll be wishing for this Christmas season."
Things to do
There's no shortage of festive events to enjoy in Niagara-on-the-Lake during the holiday season.
One of the most magical experiences is the Candlelight Stroll, taking place on December 5. The event includes holiday performances and a magical candlelit walk through the enchanting village.
You can also catch some holiday shows at The Shaw Festival, including A Christmas Carol and White Christmas.
On December 13, you can celebrate the season at the Santa Claus Parade, which features festive floats and holiday cheer.
Another magical spot to check out is the Winter Wonderland Gardens at Pillar and Post. The venue transforms its gardens into a magical holiday oasis complete with illuminated pathways and a glistening skating rink.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is brimming with unique shops and boutiques where you can find all sorts of gifts.
It's a magical spot to get your Christmas shopping done while soaking in the town's twinkling holiday charm.
Don't miss out on a stop at Just Christmas, Canada's oldest year-round Christmas Emporium. You'll discover everything from Advent calendars to unique ornaments.
For an extra enchanting experience, you can book a horse-drawn carriage tour by Sentineal Carriages, which "typically goes to the waterfront, through the Historical District and down the main street of Old Town," according to the website.
Food experiences
Bring your appetite, because Niagara-on-the-Lake has lots of food events happening throughout the season, such as the Dickensian Feast and Breakfast with Santa at Prince of Wales Hotel.
For a fancy experience, you can also enjoy an Afternoon Tea for the Holidays at Prince of Wales Hotel.
Many of the surrounding wineries offer festive tastings and holiday events where you can enjoy specialty treats and icewine.
With old-world charm, Victorian-era streets, and holiday magic, this authentic Christmas village near Toronto is worth a festive road trip.
Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake 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.