The end of year celebrations in Canada are often memorable. Many events are organized to make you forget the cold and so that the holidays take place in a good mood. Enjoy the snow and nature or explore the towns decorated for the occasion: there are several ways to spend quality time at Christmas or New Year in Canada.
1 – Enjoy the snow and the cold
Winter means snow in Canada. If you're heading there for the holidays, take advantage of the abundant coverage to indulge in your favorite winter sports. Skiing and snowboarding are a must and you can practice them in one of the many Canadian ski resorts. Examples include the legendary Whistler Blackcomb near Vancouver, the Massif in Charlevoix, Blue Mountain in Ontario and even Mont-Tremblant in Quebec.
Snowshoeing or dog sledding are other unusual activities to try in Canada in winter, particularly in the Laurentians. For a fun family outing, try your hand at ice skating at a city rink or on frozen courtyards and water features, like in Ottawa on the Rideau Canal.
You can also simply opt to rent a chalet in Charlevoix for example. These beautiful houses in the heart of nature in a calm and soothing atmosphere will be perfect if you want to spend the holidays peacefully with your family. Shopping can be done easily in nearby towns.
2 - Fill up on lights in Ottawa
Canadians announce the arrival of the end-of-year holidays on November 1st. For this purpose, the fronts of houses and buildings are decorated and numerous Christmas markets are organized in almost every town. cities in Canada.
The Ottawa Christmas Market takes place from November to December on Aberdeen Square. You can attend live musical performances, taste local and international culinary specialties and attend unusual events.
Don't miss a visit to Byward Market which will be lit up for the occasion. Children will particularly enjoy taking a short ride in a horse-drawn wagon through the market.
During Christmas Lights, the city sparkles and Upper Canada Village is absolutely beautiful. Historic buildings, trees and gardens are decorated. This is also where the Alight at Night festival takes place. It will take you back in time with its horse-drawn carriages, visits from Saint Nicholas and delicious Christmas treats. Projections are also scheduled on Parliament Hill, for a nighttime spectacle of great beauty.
3 - Admire the Northern Lights away from the world
The end of the year is one of the best times to admire the Northern Lights, thanks to the absence of clouds and the long nights. You should ideally head north to give yourself the best chance of seeing them and above all not be in too much of a hurry.
They are often visible in the Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador or Nunavut. You can also go to the town of Kuujjuaq in Quebec, thanks to its airport. It is a little more than a two-hour flight from Montreal, ideal for a weekend.
To maximize your chances, consider consulting the forecast calendar and the interactive map of the most suitable places for observing the Northern Lights.
4 - Spend unforgettable holidays in Vancouver
If you are lucky enough to be in Vancouver during the holidays, don't miss its Christmas market from November to December. German-inspired, it is the perfect place to taste delicious specialties. Admire its imposing Christmas tree and attend different musical performances. Many activities for all ages are offered during this event.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is also decorated from start to finish for the occasion and offers a magical view. Continue with the VanDusen Light Festival in the botanical garden. More than a million lights illuminate the garden with different themes from one space to another. You can snack on specialties while enjoying the music. Finally, don't miss the PNE Winter Fair and its various events during your visit to Vancouver.
5 - Celebrate the holidays in Montreal
And why not choose to stay in Montreal for the end-of-year holidays? The most cosmopolitan of French-speaking cities of Canada offers many events and activities during this period.
The Santa Claus parade is the event not to be missed if you come to Canada with your family. It is a charming sight with its decorated floats. The Christmas Village and its Christmas market are also set up at Place des Arts from November. Another market of this type is also organized in Jean-Talon.
The city center is decorated and sparkles with a thousand lights. There are gigantic installations, entertainment of all kinds and also delicious things to snack on during the walks. Strolling around the Place des Festivals also allows you to try out various interactive activities.
Old Montreal - a must in all seasons - is also decorated for the end-of-year celebrations. The Notre-Dame Basilica is bathed in light and you can watch a show inside. The Grande Roue de Montréal is very popular with tourists towards the end of December. It offers a 360° view of the city and its millions of lights. Don't forget to try one of the city's ice rinks to complete your Canadian experience.
Complexe Desjardins is another popular destination in the city, along with Avenue du Mont Royal.
6 - Make your stay in Niagara Falls
This city made famous by its famous waterfalls is also of great beauty during the end-of-year holidays. The Winter Festival of Lights takes place there from November, and has been doing so for over 40 years. It’s an opportunity for the city to dress in its most beautiful lights. The road which leads to the falls then offers a particularly striking spectacle, being illuminated in its entirety.
The city also organizes its Christmas market from November. There we find local producers, artisans and artists in a joyful atmosphere. Also not to be missed is the Christmas Parade, an event that will particularly appeal to children!
To prepare for the holidays, stock up on Canadian products in our online store. Food, drinks and even cosmetics: you will find many gift ideas for Christmas.
