This magical Christmas town near Toronto will sweep you away to a sparkling European village

You can enjoy twinkly streets and trolley rides.

A street with Christmas lights. Right: A person standing outside of a store at Christmas.

A small town in Ontario. Right: An Ontario bakery.

Lead Writer, Travel

This small town near Toronto is transforming into an all-out Christmas wonderland. With sparkling streets, glowing shops and festive cheer, you'll feel like you're in a European Christmas village at this spot.

St. Jacobs Village is bringing back its Sparkles experience on select dates from November 14 to 24, 2024.

The annual shopping event features thousands of twinkling lights and festive activities.

Highlights include strolling Victorian-era singers, horse-drawn trolley rides, letters with Santa and cookie decorating.

The Village will be adorned in sparkling decor and holiday magic, making you feel as if you've stepped into a mini Christmas town.

With its historic buildings and old-world charm, the area is brimming with European vibes.

Both weeks on Thursday nights to Saturday nights, some stores will be open until 9 p.m. so you can get lots of holiday shopping done while enjoying the enchanting atmosphere.

There will also be a number of deals and specials happening at shops throughout the Village, such as tax-free shopping and scratch-and-save opportunities.

St. Jacobs has lots of other magical things to experience during the holiday season.

According to the website, you can enjoy "sipping hot apple cider in front of a bonfire at Canada’s largest farmers' market, listening to a carolling quartet as you shop main street or a visit with Santa on the heritage train" throughout the Christmas season.

If you're looking for a touch of Christmas enchantment, this cozy village outside of Toronto is a hidden holiday gem.

St. Jacobs Sparkles

Price: Free

When: Select dates from November 14 to 24, 2024

Address: St. Jacobs, ON

St. Jacobs Village 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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