Holiday Happenings in Wellington County

Warm up in Wellington County this holiday season! Our cozy, welcoming communities transform into festive winter wonderlands, offering magical experiences, local shopping, and seasonal delights for all ages.

We're known for local food and gifts - and for good reason! Here are some scrumptious ways to treat your taste buds this holiday season:

Discover Wellington County's many festive season highlights - from outstanding Holiday shopping to Christmas tree farms and local events. Explore all the exciting holiday happenings for each community.

For additional events, see our online calendar.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Fergus and Belwood

Visit Fergus and Belwood for unique shops, wintry views, and tasty dining experiences.

Holiday Shopping made easy

Find personal items and home décor at the One and Only Handmade Marketplace or Home Basics just up the street. Shop sweets at the Fergus Scottish Corner Shop, Made in Holland, or see how chocolates and other confections are made at I Love Chocolate! Find unique pieces for that special someone at Iron Bucket Antiques. Don’t forget the kids – head up to Brighten Up Toys and Games for a variety of STEM activities, crafts, puzzles, and more. They are even offering pictures with Santa!

Warm up while Downtown

Stroll the river walk to see lights in Templin Gardens and enjoy refreshments during your outing at The Vault Coffee and Espresso Bar, dinner at one of the Breadalbane Inn restaurants, or grab a pint at The Outpost Bottle Shop. Psst… they are also offering craft beer advent calendars!

Butter Tarts, Alpacas and more

Make a note to stop into Belwood Country Market just outside of town and pick up one (or a dozen – we don’t judge) of their infamous butter tarts. A great appetizer before heading across the street to Joanie's Neighbourhood Restaurant where comfort food meets community spirit. One street over you will find Wendy's Favourite Things, a home, garden, and cottage decorating shop. While there pop over to Harmony Meadows Alpaca and get close up close and personal with some furry animals. Be sure to book in advance!

Holiday Events

• November 21-23: A Christmas Story at the Fergus Grand Theatre. The play version of the beloved Christmas classic just in time for the holidays!
• November 22: Fergus Optimist Club Holiday Craft Market. Come browse a variety of items. There will be face painting and craft table for the kids, fortune teller, bake table, draws for prizes, cash and grocery cards, as well as refreshments available for purchase.
• November 28, 29: Christmas Market at the Wellington County Museum and Archives. Ring in the holiday season with a handmade market, live musical entertainment, delicious local food, a visit from Santa Claus, and more family fun!
• December 5, 12: Late Night Sip and Shop downtown Fergus. Stores will be open for late night shopping. The event showcases tree lighting, horse-drawn carriage rides, carolling, Santa Claus, a holiday DJ, and even food trucks.
• December 6: Belwood Lions' Breakfast with Santa. Bring out the family for a traditional breakfast of Pancakes, hash browns, fruit cup, drinks, music, kid's activities and a whole lot of family fun. Meet the jolly old Saint Nicholas himself!
• December 6: Fergus Santa Claus Parade. A traditional float and walking parade through the downtown streets of Fergus. Food bank donations are being accepted during the event.
• December 12-21: The Nutcracker Play at the Fergus Grand Theatre. a classic tale of delightful Christmas motifs, dreamscapes, and adventure.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Elora

Wander the winter wonderland of Ontario’s most beautiful village - Elora.

Boutiques and Specialty Shops

The Elora Mews is an outdoor Christmas village of its own in downtown Elora, hosting a variety of unique shops year-round, including Seasons Home and Gift a home and lifestyle destination, and they go all out for Christmas! Pick up festive treats and stocking stuffers such as candies, chocolates, and butter tarts across the street at Sweet Distractions.  At Karger, they have travelled the world to offer customers a curated selection of modern and eclectic furniture and home accessories, jewellery, and fashions. Elora Centre for the Arts' artisan shop features unique and inspired handmade, artist-designed or eco-friendly finds. Visit the quaint shop of Magic Pebble Books for a variety of books and gifts for all ages. Be sure to stop and pick up a glass candy cane for your tree, or gift someone a private glass-blowing class from Blown Away Glass.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry

The Lost and Found Café is where the community comes together. Warm up with a steamy beverage or enjoy their all-day breakfast. The Wild Tart offers the finest café style dining, exquisite afternoon teas, delicious light fayre, bubbles, and cocktails. Stop for dinner at the Elora Mill, a one-of-a-kind destination, and pick up a spa certificate for that special someone while you are there. Join Elora Brewing Company for farm to table experience; grab some beers from their retail shop, or check out a concert or activity night. Taste and pick up handcrafted spirits infused with local flavours at Elora Distilling Company. They also offer cocktail classes - a unique gift!

Holiday Events

• November 20, 21, 27, 28: Starlight Shopping in downtown Elora. Enjoy in-store promotions, and festive entertainment, and be sure to stop at one of the many restaurants to warm up with a cozy lunch, dinner, or beverage.
• November 29: Elora Legion Christmas Craft Sale. Come get your shopping done with local gifts and purchase an ornament from the Hospice Tree of Remembrance.
• November 29: Elora Santa Claus Parade, a spectacular light parade through Elora's historic streets.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Erin

Visit the Town of Erin for Christmas tree experiences, festive window displays, and boutique shopping.

Shop

There's no shortage of unique gift shopping in Erin! Sample and purchase artisanal, farm-crafted ciders at Heartwood Farm and Cidery. Debora’s Chocolates has been making handmade chocolates, candy, and fudge for 20+ years - only the freshest ingredients and preservative-free! Amorettos is the place to shop for wraps, capes, shawls, and one of a kind, chic clothing. Brighten Up Toys offers quality, affordably priced toys, games, puzzles, brainteasers, and more. For one-of-a-kind gifts, visit Hides in Hand for beautifully handcrafted Canadian leather goods, or explore Rural Commons a boutique space featuring several local retailers (and a cozy coffee bar to enjoy while you shop!)

---

Image

Holiday Happenings in Guelph/Eramosa

Explore Guelph/Eramosa Township for outdoor adventures and tasty treats.

Unique Shopping

What could be better than spending a cold winter's day in front of a roaring wood fire while drinking delicious wine? Cox Creek Cellars offers award-winning wines and ciders located on a picturesque farm. Visit for a tasting or to pick up that perfect dinner-warming gift. Stop by Styll Gallery down the road, a destination gallery with unique and beautifully made gifts. Visit during regular business hours or book a private shopping experience. Rural Roots Artisan Shop offers one-of-a-kind wares and gifts-everything is handmade within an hour of Rockwood! Don’t forget Yolanda’s Fashion Boutique, they carry unique fashion and accessories with a personalized experience. Shop handcrafted clothing, leather accessories, jewelry and gifts at Hides in Hand, and you can get a taste of Greek at Tithorea. Grab someone (or yourself) fresh cooked meals, desserts, honey, spices, pottery, and so much more.

When you get Hungry

Warm up and fill up in the town of Rockwood. The Bearded Barista is a must-visit, year-round Christmas cafe and boutique. Try their signature drink, the Liquid Candy, hot or cold. The peppermint white chocolate drink tastes exactly like a candy cane! Chompin' at the Bit Bar and Grille, is the perfect spot to relax, laugh, and enjoy while they serve comforting food, drink, and hospitality. Looking for spice? Bunty's Indian Cuisine offers authentic Indian taste with a wonderful dining experience. The Eramosa River Café is an excellent rustic spot for breakfast and lunch. They also have great vegan options! Call ahead for hours.

Holiday and Christmas (Tree) Experiences:

A great way to start your Holiday Season, bring the family to enjoy a truly unforgettable day in the country.

Head over to Madeira Farms, grab a sled, and select your own unique Christmas Tree. Visit their shop to browse beautiful wreaths, sturdy tree stands, and their selection of beautiful pre-cut trees. Try something different and visit All In Alpacas. Get an up-close experience, and while you are there, you'll have an opportunity to visit a fibre studio, sink your hands into the luxury of alpaca fleece and learn how it's prepared for processing. Please note: advance bookings only.

Events

• December 1: Holiday Sprinkle and Sip in Rockwood. Bring your creativity (and your sweet tooth!) for a night of holiday cheer and sweet memories in the making. Register by November 21.
• December 4: Lantern Light Shopping Night with participating Rockwood businesses. Shop late and enjoy complimentary goodies with purchases - plus enter for a chance to win a gift basket!
• December 6: Rockwood Breakfast with Santa. Indulge in pancakes, eggs, sausage, hot drinks and cookie decorating fun! A wonderful community event for all ages.
• December 6: Holiday Market with Santa at Royal City Nursery. Sip on seasonal drinks, indulge in festive cookies, and shop for unique gifts. Pick up your Christmas tree, seasonal décor, and grab a photo with Santa!
• December 11: Rockwood Farmers’ Santa Claus Parade of Lights celebrates its 32nd year. Floats are provided by local farmers, and you can expect the country roads to be lit up to guide Santa. Rain, snow or shine!

Image

Holiday Happenings in Mapleton

Visit Mapleton Township for one-of-a-kind treasures, homemade baked delights and classic parades.

Festive Finds

Mapleton’s Organic Dairy is worth a visit year-round (is it ever actually too cold for ice cream?). They also offer gift cards for the local food lover on your list, or you can pick up pastured pork, certified organic chicken, turkey, and eggs, as well as organically raised beef and lamb.

Jolley’s Farm Toys in Alma carries a wide selection of farm and construction toys, plus collectibles, including many one-of-a-kind items and rarities, or stop by Paul Noonan's Antiques on your way for additional treasures. Moorefield's The Pretty Penny is a women’s consignment boutique offering current and in-season ladies' clothing and accessories, bath and body care, locally made goods, and decorative pieces for your home.

Warm up while you Shop

Drayton's A La Mode Café loves all things local, from suppliers to the ingredients in their food. They cook most items from scratch, from homemade soups, ice cream cakes, and waffle cones to the dressings on salads, wraps, and sandwiches. They're also passionate about good coffee.

Stop by The Right Spot in Alma for delicious homemade comfort food and famous homemade baked goods. The Moorefield Diner prides itself on serving delicious country-style portions at affordable prices and has a great all-day breakfast. Drayton Chop House will satisfy your dinner craving with thoughtfully crafted dishes, daily specials, and refreshing drinks.

Holiday Events

• December 5: Drayton Santa Claus Parade. Join Santa for a magical evening at 7:00 pm. Enjoy festive floats, sparkling lights, and holiday music. After the parade, you're invited to meet Santa himself at the Drayton Fire Hall!
• December 6: Alma Optimist Christmas Craft Market. Looking for the perfect gift this holiday? Shop from a variety of vendors. A hot lunch will be available for purchase.
• December 6: The Optimist Club of Moorefield presents Santa Claus Parade. Meet Santa after the parade at the Optimist Ice Rink, where a photo booth will be on site. 
• December 11: Drayton Kinettes Sip and Shop features a holiday handmade market with over 30 vendors, delicious dinner options, and bar.
• December 21: Alma Santa Claus Parade. Along with Santa, this daytime parade hosts decorated tractors and farm implements, volunteer fire department trucks and township snowplows, a troupe of unicyclists, heavy horse hitches with wagons pulled by Percherons and Clydesdales, and ponies prancing down Main Street.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Minto

Visit the Town of Minto for specialty toys, décor, and a fire and ice new year's party!

Things to Shop and Explore

Start off your evening with a stroll through the Palmerston Lions Heritage Park and transform your typical walk with everything from twinkling trains to glowing gardens that will illuminate your night and heart! Bright Lights and Festive Nights, a holiday walking light trail, runs November through to December. 

Alpaca Time, between Clifford and Harriston, has built a reputation of manufacturing premium alpaca products since 2005. Shop for quality outerwear, yarn, gifts, and more. Pop into The Barrel House for woodwork, decor, and barrel-aged ingredients used in Pete’s delicious baked goods. Shop Canadian this holiday season and visit Eh-2-Zed in Harriston, where you will find carefully selected products that are Made in Canada by Canadians.

Clifford Country Store sells locally and regionally grown produce, bakery items, prepared foods, meats and eggs, artisan cheeses, and pantry items. Plus, they support local artisans by providing a brick-and-mortar venue to showcase their work including pottery, textiles, glass, and jewelry.

Find timeless antiques for that someone special at The Roosters' Perch in Clifford, Davie's Antiques in Harriston, or Palmerston's What’s the Occasion has a variety of giftware, handmade candles made on-site, helium balloons and so much more.

The Teenie Tiny Tots Children Shop in Palmerston is the area's leading provider of new and gently used children’s clothing, toys, equipment, and maternity wear. Kidding Around offers a destination to find innovative and interesting toys and board games.

Regenerate while Shopping

When you're in need of a bite to eat, May's Cafe at the Old Post offers baked-in-the-building sweet treats, made-to-order drinks, and healthy lunch options, or stop by Feel Alive Wellness Station and choose a thoughtfully curated winter drink. For the coffee lovers, they use only premium espresso beans. Also available are freshly made smoothies loaded with fruit, veggies, and other superfoods. Looking for dinner? Harry Stones Social House serves up time-honoured family recipes with daily in-house features. Stop by, warm up, and say hi!

Events

• November 12: Candy Canes and Cocktails. Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Harriston with special discounts, festive cocktails, live music, and sweet treats. Join their holiday passport contest with up to $500 in prizes, and an indoor vendors market at the Harriston Legion!
• November 14: Light Up the Park Palmerston. Hot drinks, fireworks, photos with Santa, wagon rides, amazing performers, and more! Hotdogs by donation starting at 5:30 pm.
• November 16: Palmerston Breakfast with Santa. Bring the whole family to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast! Kids can get their picture taken with Santa (sent to you via email), and Santa has a special surprise for each child.
• November 20: Kris Kringle Market in Palmerston hosts a pop-up craft market, downtown shopping, food trucks, photo ops with your favourite holiday characters, music, fire pits, and more.
• November 22: Harriston Santa Claus Parade. Bring your family, friends, and holiday cheer to enjoy an evening filled with festive floats, twinkling lights, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus himself.
• November 29: Winter Magic Market in Clifford. Enjoy extended shopping hours and special promotions at participating businesses in the downtown. Then visit the Clifford Community Centre for a vibrant vendors' market, horse and wagon rides, an ugly sweater competition, a holiday craft, and more. Stay after for the Santa Claus Parade, treats, and photos with Santa himself.
• December 6: Clifford Rotary's Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast and meet with Santa himself!
• December 6: Palmerston Santa Claus Parade. Celebrate the holiday spirit with festive floats, cheerful music, and a special appearance by Santa himself.
• December 25: Community Christmas Dinner. Hosted by Dave and Jean Anderson, the community is invited for a time of fellowship and a traditional turkey dinner. From those celebrating alone, to couples who won't be cooking a big meal, to those without family nearby, everyone is invited to embrace the true spirit of Christmas with the community.
• December 31: Fire and Ice Family New Year's Eve Party. The community brings the heat with the coolest activities of the year, including food, fire pits, special guests, the ice princesses, skating, a blacksmithing demonstration, and a huge fireworks display.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Puslinch

What do Christmas trees, alpacas, and a Nordic Fest have in common? Holiday season in Puslinch!

Get Holiday-Ready

Chickadee Christmas Trees in Puslinch sells cut-your-own or pre-cut Christmas trees, wreaths, and tree stands. They also have a free kids' activity area, free nature trail with activity stations, complimentary cider, candy canes, and a beautiful gift shop.

FOR Living in Aberfoyle offers a stunning collection of holiday (and anytime) decor and gift ideas.

Hang out with Alpacas

Visit Brae Ridge Farm and Sanctuary in Puslinch for luxurious and comfortable wearables made from the fibre of alpacas on-site and spun by the best mills in Ontario (don't forget to say hi to the alpacas, too).

Find an Experiential Gift

If someone on your list prefers experiences to material goods, consider a gift certificate to rejuvenate Crieff Hills Retreat Centre or an artistic workshop at Chassagne in Puslinch.

Worked up an Appetite?

The Aberfoyle Mill is known for its unique atmosphere and superb, traditional-style food and service. Stop by Bistro Reunion in Morriston for some french inspired cuisine. They serve mouthwatering lunches and dinners and offer an extensive drink menu. The Danish Place in Puslinch provides an authentic taste of Denmark from Chef Mark Mogensen (Mark makes his own rullepølse, as well as rye bread, and leverpostejis), or hop over to Little Lake Market, where you can warm up with their 'Puslinch Fog' or a savoury bowl of chili. They are the destination for organic, grass-fed, gut-health conscious products.

Holiday Events

• November 22, 23: Christmas Craft Sale in the Country. Stop by the Badenoch Community Centre to pick up unique crafts, sewing, baking and more.
• November 23: Puslinch Santa Claus Parade. Come out for this afternoon parade. Each child will receive a goody bag from the jolly old guy himself, and Optimist volunteers will provide hot chocolate and hot dogs. Bring your Santa letter and donations to the food bank.
• December 7: Sunset Villa's annual Nordic Market. Celebrate the festive season with family favourite activities. Santa will be there, to hear your Jul wishes! This is an outdoor event, so wear your hats and gloves to stay cozy.

Image

Holiday Happenings in Wellington North

Visit Wellington North for unique gifts, craft distillery experiences, and an epic street market.

Shop

Travelling through Mexico's back roads, Casa Verde Imports brings beautiful textiles, handcrafted furniture, and ceramics to Arthur. Arthur is also home to beautiful decor and gifts at Arthur Cash and Carry. They offer private shopping nights, holiday workshops, and even photos with Santa! Arthur's award-winning Silver Fox Distillery is an experience in itself and also sells an extremely giftable Advent Calendar.

Then head to Mount Forest to find that special if at Ideal Fashion, or if you know a horse enthusiast, Gifted Equestrian caters to everyone from the recreational trail rider to those who are competitive - offering western tack, stable supplies, supplements, apparel, and everything else. The Eco Den is your local source for made-in-Canada natural personal care, eco-friendly and zero-waste products.

While you're there...

Warm up with a delicious beverage from Sterre Café and Gifts in Arthur and stay for dinner at The Tipsy Fox (Mount Forest or Arthur) offering pub style food with a family environment. If you're looking for some international flavours, stop into Mount Forest Tandoori Grill, or Erni's Place Restaurant and Pizza in Arthur.

Holiday Events

• November 1: Arthur Legion Christmas Craft Sale. Browse many crafters all in one place, Penny table, bake table, home party programmes, and more. Light Lunch available to purchase from the Legion Ladies.
• November 14: Arthur Sip, Savour and Shop Event. Downtown businesses will have lots of experience-based shopping/tasting events within the downtown district. A great kick off to the holiday season!
• November 20: Mount Forest Chamber of Commerce's Ladies Night. Participating retailers stay open late, have special deals, demonstrations and more! Gentlemen are welcome as well. The event runs from 4:00 – 8:00 pm.
• November 22: Mount Forest Lions Christmas Craft Market. Hosting 75+ vendors. Entry by donation at the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex. The event runs from 9:00 am- 3:00 pm and lunch is available.
• November 22: Arthur Opti-Mrs Christmas Home Tour. Gather up your friends and join us for a fun-filled evening of tastefully decorated homes and special treats on this self-guided tour.
• November 22: Flocking Holiday Home Tour. Five local homes to open their doors. Mount Forest Pool fundraiser. The event runs from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.
• November 23: Arthur Lions Christmas Craft Show. Shop from 50+ amazing vendors featuring one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, festive décor, tasty treats, and more. Free admission at the Arthur and Area Community Centre. The event runs from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm.
• November 27-29: Christmas Time in Arthur. The Arthur Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Arthur BIA, and the Township of Wellington North, have come together to organize a series of festive events for the community to kick off the Christmas season. View the full schedule at www.christmastimeinarthur.ca.
• November 29: Arthur Opti-Mrs Santa Claus Parade. Canada's Most Patriotic Village is celebrating the season with an evening parade at 7:00 pm.
• December 4: Mount Forest BIA Christmas Tree Lighting. Enjoy festivities starting at 5:30 pm with hot chocolate, Santa and even the Grinch! Tree lighting at 6:30 pm.
• December 5: Mount Forest Lions Club Santa Claus Parade. The evening parade starts at 7:00 pm and the theme this year is "The Night Before Christmas".
• December 6, 7: Home for the Holidays in Mount Forest.
• December 13: Breakfast with Santa in Mount Forest.