This Ontario city has a 'Hallmark holiday movie vibe' with twinkly trolleys and cozy cafes

You can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides through glittery streets.

A person standing outside a store. Right: A Christmas tree in a town square.

Madeline in an Ontario city. Right: Christmas in an Ontario city.

Lead Writer, Travel

Twinkling streets, glowing cafes, horse-drawn wagons and more await at this enchanting Christmas destination in Ontario. You'll feel like you've stepped into a cozy Christmas film as you wander through the town square and around the glittering shops.

Kingston, Ontario is getting a magical makeover for the Christmas season. The lakeside city is brimming with European charm and is just a road trip away from Toronto.

According to a press release from Visit Kingston, the city features "twinkling lights, warm drinks, seasonal displays in store windows, and intimate dinners in cozy restaurants."

Downtown, you'll discover "that Hallmark holiday movie vibe" that will whisk you away to a Christmas wonderland.

There's lots to enjoy during the holiday season. On Saturdays from December 7 to December 21, you can experience free horse-drawn wagon rides that take you along the festive streets.

The Santa Claus Parade is taking place on November 23, as well as the Christmas tree lighting in Springer Market Square.

On Saturdays from November 30 to December 21, you can hop on the twinkly Christmas trolley and enjoy a free ride around the downtown.

Other festive events include the Christmas Light Tour, Holiday Shopping Passport and and Christmas concerts.

There are several Christmas markets happening throughout the season, such as the German Christmas Market at Amadeus Cafe.

Kingston's downtown is full of glittering shops where you can get all your holiday shopping done. There are also lots of cozy cafes where you can grab a seasonal drink, such as CRAVE and Northside.

If you're looking for a Hallmark-worthy experience, Kingston is a magical spot to visit.

Visit Kingston 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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