Located just 90 minutes from Toronto, a trip to Orillia and Lake Country is the perfect way to discover small town charm and get into the Holiday spirit. This weekend, Downtown Orillia will be abuzz with festive events to kick off the season.
Late Night Downtown Shopping
Friday November 21, December 5 & 19
Select Downtown Orillia businesses will be open late on November 21, December 5th & 19th for all of your festive shopping needs. Watch for specials, discounts and so much more. Be the crowds and support local business while enjoying the festive charm of Downtown Orillia.
Learn more.
Delicious Days of Christmas: Holiday Bites & Delights
Friday November 21, 5-9pm
Downtown Orillia’s Mississaga Street will transform into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, irresistible treats, and holiday cheer. Explore over 20 different vendors serving up everything from succulent smoky BBQ to sweet treats along side local artisans showcasing beautiful handmade gift options for everyone on your list. Select downtown shops will also be open late for the event.
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Children’s Candlelight Parade
Friday November 21, 7:00pm
Bring the kids down to the corner of Mississaga Street and Front Street at 7:00pm sharp, where battery operated candles will be provided. Participants will walk west along Mississaga Street lead by The Orillia Fire Service. The parade will end at the Orillia Opera House just in time for the tree lighting.
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Traditional Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday November 21, 7:00pm
Bundle up, grab yourself a hot beverage and head to the Orillia Opera house to witness the lighting of Orillia’s beautiful new blue spruce. Take in the sounds of the carolers, the sparkle of the lights and the warmth of community.
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Orillia Farmers Market Christmas Market
Friday November 21 & 28, 3-7pm
Don’t miss these special evening renditions of the Orillia Farmers Market! Enjoy local crafts, festive treats, and the warmth of community spirit! Located inside the Orillia Public Library.
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Orillia Christmas Market
Friday November 21, 5-9pm & Saturday November 22, 10am-4pm
Creative Nomad Studios hosts The 5th Annual Orillia Christmas Market. This 2 day event will feature over 50 handmade vendors, inside and outside the historic space at 23 Mississaga St. W. There will be fun for the whole family including gnome and ornament making. The big guy himself will be around Friday night for Selfies with Santa.
Learn more.
Santa Claus Parade
Saturday November 22, 5-7pm
On Saturday night, Santa Claus is coming to town! The Orillia Santa Claus Parade is the largest Christmas Parade north of Toronto and is in it’s 120th year! This annual tradition attracts thousands of smiling faces as it winds its way through Downtown Orillia and showcases over 100 floats, bands and vehicles as well as jolly old St. Nick himself.
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5th Annual Rustica Christmas Night Market
Friday December 5th, 4-8:30pm
Rustica is hosting their magical Christmas Night Market, on the patio from 4-8:30pm. Enjoy local vendors, mulled wine, and winter lounge! Dining indoors will be by reservation only.
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Pints & Presents Holiday Market
Saturday December 6 & Sunday December 7, 11am – 4pm
Head to Brewery Bay in Downtown Orillia for 2 days of festive shopping from local, handmade vendors. On Saturday get your picture with Santa from 12-2pm and on Sunday enjoy live music from 12-2:30pm.
Learn more.
Extend Your Stay
Mark your calendar for all of these upcoming events. Orillia is home to a variety of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in close proximity to waterfront views and lake country experiences. Enjoy wonderful hospitality during your stay, while exploring nearby shopping and dining hubs in the historic city.
