Kelowna Joins Abbotsford, Gatineau, New Westminster, Thunder Bay, Trois-Rivières, Burlington, Brampton, Sudbury, and Lethbridge in Bringing Holiday Magic Across Canada with Christmas Parades, New Year’s Eve Fireworks, and Festive Markets

Published on December 7, 2025

Kelowna joins Abbotsford, Gatineau, New Westminster, Thunder Bay, Trois-Rivières, Burlington, Brampton, Sudbury, and Lethbridge in bringing holiday magic across Canada with Christmas parades, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and festive markets, making these cities perfect destinations for celebrating the holiday season. Each city offers unique holiday experiences, from vibrant light displays and community parades to sparkling New Year’s Eve fireworks and bustling Christmas markets. With something for every traveler, these celebrations capture the essence of the season, making them must-visit spots for creating lasting holiday memories.

Canada is known for its winter wonderlands, and the holiday season is one of the most magical times to explore the country. From dazzling light displays to festive parades and exciting fireworks shows, Canada’s cities come alive during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly events or unforgettable New Year’s Eve experiences, these cities offer something for everyone.

Kelowna: A Winter Wonderland with Fireworks, Festive Markets, and Holiday Cheer

Kelowna is the place to be for anyone looking to experience a vibrant Christmas and New Year’s atmosphere. The Parade With a Purpose, held on December 6, 2025, will light up the downtown streets with over 25 festive floats, providing a perfect family outing. The parade runs from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM and showcases the city’s dedication to community and holiday spirit.

On New Year’s Eve, Kelowna’s Big White Ski Resort will host an exciting fireworks show at 9:00 PM, a sight not to be missed. For those staying closer to downtown, the Valley First New York New Year celebration in Stuart Park will feature live entertainment and fireworks at 9:00 PM, providing a perfect spot to ring in the new year.

The festive season in Kelowna extends beyond New Year’s Eve. Christmas light displays like Candy Cane Lane will continue to dazzle visitors until January 1, 2026, and the Craft Culture Holiday Market from December 6-8 at Prospera Place is the perfect place to shop for local artisan goods.

Key Highlights:

• Waterfront, Tree of Hope & Neighbourhood “Twinkle Tours”
  • Downtown Waterfront (Stuart Park & Kerry Park): The lakefront skating rink and light displays at Stuart Park are perfect for both Christmas ambience and New Year’s Eve fireworks at Stuart Park.
  • Tree of Hope & Landmark District: The illuminated Tree of Hope and surrounding office towers create one of the most photographed holiday skylines in Kelowna.
  • Candy Cane Lane (Rutland) & Kettle Valley: Decorated residential streets in Rutland and Kettle Valley bring holiday charm to the neighborhoods.
  • West Kelowna “Twinkle Tour”: A mapped self-drive route highlighting clusters of decorated homes, ideal for a scenic tour of the city’s best light displays.

Abbotsford: A Christmas Celebration with Parades, Markets, and Holiday Cheer

Abbotsford, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, offers an array of holiday events to enjoy. The 18th Annual Santa Shuffle, taking place at Mill Lake Park on December 6, invites families to join in a festive walk and run. The Trethewey House Historic Christmas Open House, also on December 6, offers a glimpse into Christmas traditions of the past.

Abbotsford also hosts a variety of holiday markets, such as the Christmas at Tanglebank market, which runs from November 28 to December 23. Here, you can find festive treats, unique gifts, and local crafts, making it an ideal place to shop for the holidays.

For New Year’s Eve, the Clarion Hotel is hosting a Groovy Disco Party, a perfect option for those looking to dance their way into 2026.

Key Highlights:

• Residential Shows & Farm Experience
  • Kensington Court & Bench Family Lights (Kaslo Court): Famous synchronized light shows with music and large inflatables, these displays are a local favorite.
  • City Light-Route Maps: A curated Google map by Tourism Abbotsford makes it easy to follow a self-drive route to explore the best holiday lights in the area.
  • Greendale Acres Light Experience: Located outside the city, this farm installation offers a historic train ride and large-scale farm lights, perfect for a family outing.

Gatineau: Light Shows, Christmas Markets, and New Year’s Eve Galas

Gatineau, just across the river from Ottawa, is a city known for its dazzling holiday light displays and festive events. Noël au Sanctuaire, which runs throughout the season, provides visitors with a magical experience, featuring family activities, a Christmas market, light shows, and illuminated gardens. The Christmas spirit is alive throughout the city with these enchanting displays.

The Marché de Noël du Carrefour Trois-Rivières, opening December 6, will offer visitors the chance to shop for holiday gifts and enjoy seasonal food and drinks. Other New Year’s Eve events, like the celebration at Club Electric Avenue starting at 10:00 PM on December 31, will provide music, dancing, and festivities to ring in the new year in style.

Key Highlights:

• Winter Lights Across Canada & Old Aylmer
  • Winter Lights Across Canada (Ottawa–Gatineau loop): The capital-region program illuminates nine national sites, including Jacques-Cartier Park, creating a breathtaking night-time corridor between Ottawa and Gatineau.
  • Old Aylmer (Christmas in Old-Aylmer): Walk along Principale Street in Old Aylmer, where market stalls and holiday decorations create a warm, festive ambiance perfect for holiday photos.

New Westminster: Sparkling Light Displays and Family-Friendly Fun

New Westminster, located in Metro Vancouver, is home to the annual Glow in the Park light display, which runs from December 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The free event at Tipperary Park offers family photo opportunities and is a perfect outing for those looking to enjoy the holiday lights.

New Year’s Eve celebrations in New Westminster feature a variety of local events, including gala parties and more casual gatherings at places like CRAFT Beer Market. These festivities will keep the holiday spirit alive as the city counts down to 2026.

Key Highlights:

• City Hall, Tipperary Park & Neighbourhood Lights
  • Bright in the Park, Tipperary Park: New in 2025, this walk-through light display near downtown features illuminated pathways and installations, ideal for families.
  • New Westminster City Hall & Queensborough Civic Sites: The “JOY” sign at City Hall and other civic buildings in Queensborough create beautiful photo opportunities for holiday visitors.

Thunder Bay: Festive Parades, Circus Performances, and New Year’s Eve Jazz Nights

Thunder Bay, located on the shores of Lake Superior, brings holiday cheer with events like the Rotary Christmas Parade, which took place on November 14, 2025. Featuring festive floats and the arrival of Santa Claus, it’s an annual tradition that families look forward to.

For a truly unique experience, Thunder Bay will host Santa’s Circus at the Community Auditorium on December 16. The performance will feature stunts, illusions, and meet-and-greets with Santa’s helpers, making it a must-see event for families.

On New Year’s Eve, Thunder Bay will host Mood Indigo Jazz at Delta Hotels’ Anchor & Ore, where guests can enjoy dinner and dancing. For families, Fort William Historical Park will be hosting a fun-filled event from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Key Highlights:

• Waterfront & Iconic Houses
  • Waterfront District & Holiday Tree: The waterfront area features sparkling light displays and a large lit holiday tree, making it the primary evening viewing spot for locals and visitors.
  • Smiley Face House: A quirky local landmark, the Smiley Face House has become a popular photo spot thanks to its fun and festive display.
  • Rotary Christmas Parade Route: While the parade itself takes place earlier in the season, the Memorial Avenue corridor and downtown areas continue to showcase holiday spirit.

Trois-Rivières: A Festive Haven of Christmas Markets, Concerts, and New Year’s Eve Parties

Trois-Rivières, located in Quebec, is filled with holiday magic this season. Noël au Sanctuaire is a key event, offering light shows, Christmas markets, and family activities. The city is also home to the Marché de Noël du Carrefour Trois-Rivières, which opens on December 6. This Christmas market will be a perfect stop for holiday shoppers, featuring local vendors and festive treats.

For New Year’s Eve, guests can enjoy parties at various venues, such as the electric celebration at Club Electric Avenue, which starts at 10:00 PM on December 31. For those who enjoy music, the QW4RTZ concert on December 20 at Théâtre du Cégep de Trois-Rivières is not to be missed.

Key Highlights:

• Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap & Historic Core
  • Christmas at Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap: The flagship Christmas attraction featuring illuminated gardens, a miniatures exhibition, and a beautiful cluster of lights.
  • Downtown & Historic District: Evening walks through Trois-Rivières’ historic district offer visitors the chance to enjoy the illuminated façades of the town center.

Burlington: A Festival of Lights, Santa Visits, and Holiday Markets

Burlington, a charming city on the shores of Lake Ontario, is home to the annual Festival of Lights, which runs from November 28, 2025, to January 7, 2026. Over 60 glowing displays will light up the waterfront, providing a magical backdrop for a holiday stroll.

The city also hosts the Burlington Christmas Market, which will operate from December 11-14. With more than 30 vendors, festive music, and delicious treats, it’s an excellent place to enjoy the holiday season.

For those looking for a unique holiday performance, Leahy: Celtic Roots & Christmas Cheer will be performed at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre on December 5.

Key Highlights:

• Spencer Smith Park Waterfront
  • Burlington Festival of Lights: This lakefront park is home to 60+ illuminated displays along the shoreline, making it the city’s signature holiday attraction from November 28 to January 7.
  • Downtown Burlington & Christmas Market: The streets near the Burlington Christmas Market are decked out in festive lights, offering a cozy, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere for holiday shopping and enjoyment.

Brampton: Live Music, Fireworks, and Family Fun

Brampton, located in the Greater Toronto Area, is hosting one of the most exciting New Year’s Eve celebrations in Canada. The Garden Square New Year’s Eve event features live music from artists like Simple Plan, food vendors, and fireworks at midnight. The event is free to attend, and public transit will be available from 7:00 PM onwards, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities.

In addition to the New Year’s Eve celebration, Brampton also features winter events throughout December, such as Winter Dung Ah Town 4 at Shoppers World Brampton on December 5, offering a fun-filled day of activities.

Key Highlights:

• Garden Square & Gage Park
  • Garden Square (NYE & Winter Décor): Brampton’s Garden Square is the main hub for New Year’s Eve performances and fireworks, making it the primary spot for celebrating the new year.
  • Gage Park Winter Setup: Gage Park hosts seasonal lights and skating, providing a secondary viewing area ideal for families to enjoy the holiday season.

Sudbury: Holiday Markets, Ice Skating, and Stars on Ice

Sudbury, located in northern Ontario, offers a variety of holiday activities. The Festival of Lights at Science North shines throughout December, providing a breathtaking display of holiday lights. The Santa Claus Parade, which took place on November 22, marked the official start of the holiday season in Sudbury.

Stars On Ice will perform on December 13 at the Sudbury Community Arena, featuring world-renowned figure skaters like Elvis Stojko. The event promises to be a highlight for skating fans of all ages.

Sudbury also offers New Year’s Eve celebrations at venues like Delta Bingo & Gaming, and the CIP x Lopes Light Up The Night event at Coniston Industrial Park starting at 3:00 PM on December 31.

Key Highlights:

• Science North Festival of Lights
  • Festival of Lights at Science North: The region’s most famous holiday display, featuring tens of thousands of LEDs and over 250 elements, is a must-see attraction for the 2025 season.
  • Downtown & Community Displays: The lakefront around Science North offers some of the best bundled nightscapes, perfect for capturing the holiday spirit.

Lethbridge: Christmas Lights, Santa Parades, and Fireworks to Ring in the New Year

Lethbridge, in southern Alberta, is known for its festive holiday spirit. The city’s Glow Lethbridge indoor holiday light show at the Trade & Convention Centre is a must-see, running from November 14 to December 31. Featuring a Fairytale Christmas theme, it includes photo backdrops, Santa visits, and a Twinkle Town Market from December 11-23.

On New Year’s Eve, Lethbridge will host the Neon Night New Year’s Eve Party at 8:00 PM, offering family-friendly fun, a DJ dance event, a photo booth, and an early countdown. For those looking to enjoy a unique holiday experience, the Alberta Large Cars Christmas Cruise on December 12 will showcase beautifully decorated vehicles in support of local charities.

Key Highlights:

• Glow Lethbridge (Indoor)
  • Glow Lethbridge, Trade & Convention Centre: The indoor festival, featuring over a million lights, interactive gardens, and themed structures, is the city’s flagship Christmas attraction in 2025.
  • On-Site Themed Nights: Additional events like Enchanted Princess Night, Merry Mischief (Grinch) Night, and the “Glow-comotive” train add extra fun and family-friendly experiences.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Magic of the Season Across Canada

From the snowy mountains of Kelowna to the festive lights in New Westminster, Canada offers a rich variety of Christmas and New Year celebrations. Whether you’re seeking fireworks shows, holiday markets, or family-friendly fun, these cities provide something for everyone this holiday season. So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and head to one of these incredible destinations to make unforgettable memories this Christmas and New Year.

Kelowna joins Abbotsford, Gatineau, New Westminster, Thunder Bay, Trois-Rivières, Burlington, Brampton, Sudbury, and Lethbridge in bringing holiday magic across Canada with Christmas parades, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and festive markets, offering unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of the season. From twinkling lights to family-friendly festivities, these cities provide the perfect backdrop for celebrating the holidays with loved ones.

Canada’s cities offer an incredible array of holiday experiences, each filled with unique charm and festive cheer. Whether you’re admiring the sparkling lights of Kelowna’s waterfront, strolling through Gatineau’s Winter Lights Across Canada, or enjoying family-friendly events in Brampton and Sudbury, there’s no shortage of holiday magic across the country. From vibrant fireworks displays to enchanting Christmas markets and illuminated streets, every destination promises a chance to create unforgettable memories.

As the year comes to a close, these cities invite visitors to celebrate the season in their own special way—whether it’s through a cozy stroll under the twinkling lights or ringing in the New Year with grand festivities. Canada’s holiday offerings are truly diverse, ensuring that no matter where you go, the spirit of Christmas and New Year shines brightly. So, pack your bags, bring your loved ones, and explore the festive wonderlands that await you across Canada this holiday season.