Downtown Orillia turns into a festive wonderland around the holidays. The hallmark of any good Christmas movie is that charming small town blanketed in snow with hot chocolate available in arms’ reach, at all times and Downtown Orillia delivers on that movie-making charm. From festive family events, to specialty shopping discounts, to seasonal concerts, check out everything happening in Downtown Orillia this holiday season!
Festive Parades & Holiday Markets
As the sun sets on Friday, November 17th , the streets alight with glowing lights during the annual Candlelight Parade. Those wanting to be part of the magic are encouraged to meet at the corner of Mississaga St E and Front St at 6:30pm to receive a candle. The parade will make its way up to the Orillia Opera House for the countdown to the majestic lighting of the big tree! There will be free hot chocolate and photo opportunities with Santa!
The street will be closed with vendors and two markets to enjoy! The Orillia Farmers’ Market is hosting a special Night Market at the Orillia Public Library and right across the street is the Orillia Christmas Market at Creative Nomad Studios. Both markets will be open from 5pm-9pm on Friday evening. The Orillia Christmas Market will also run on Saturday with indoor and outdoor vendors from 10am-4:30pm.
On Saturday, November 18th the big man himself rolls into town! Starting at 5pm, Orillia Santa Claus Parade is the largest Christmas parade North of Toronto! Featuring over 100 floats, bands, and Santa himself to usher in the season. Bring the whole family to watch the downtown come alive with festivities and check out the shops, cafes and eateries to round out a fun filled day.
Note the updated route for this year’s parade!
As the countdown to Christmas gets closer, Rustica Pizza Vino will be hosting its 4th Annual Christmas Night Market on Friday, December 8th. This cozy market is held on Rustica’s patio and you can pair it with a delicious warm stone-oven pizza inside. Book your dining reservation fast as they go quickly!
Shop Till Ya Drop
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to just be crossing off wish-lists of endless gifts. Make it an experience worth remembering and treat yourself to some Hallmark movie level atmosphere. Meet with a friend at a cozy café, stroll through shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift for your loved ones, relax after a day of marking things off your list with a cocktail or brew at a downtown restaurant. Downtown business have been busy decking the halls, wrapping up gifts, and creating confections in preparation for the season.
Want to get the best bang for your buck while gift-buying? Shop and save with Half-Priced Downtown Dollars! Celebrate Black Friday on November 24 and take advantage of outrageous specials throughout the Downtown. Downtown Orillia BIA will have its annual Downtown Dollars sale of 50% off a $50 package, at Creative Nomad Studios. Doors open at 9am, available while supplies last!
Be sure to keep an eye on the streets of Downtown as they transform with dazzling tree-light displays as well as some wintery public art that may pop-up!
Songs & Sounds of the Season
Located in the downtown core, the historic Orillia Opera House has welcomed back the holiday season with open arms. Head over during an evening stroll to catch a glimpse of the decorated Opera House tree and take a gander at their exciting holiday lineup of shows.
November 25: Ballet Jorgen’s The Nutcracker: A uniquely Canadian twist to the beloved classic, fun for the whole family!
December 8: A Lunch at Allen’s Christmas featuring renowned Canadian talents of Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan, and Ian Thomas.
December 11: The Barra MacNeils – An East Coast Christmas: A musical potpourri of traditional MacNeil family favourites gleaned from Christmas ceilidhs, midnight masses and general festive frolic
December 15: Serena Ryder presents Merry Myths Tour – celebrate both cherished and contemporary Christmas Classics
December 17: Sleigh Bells and Brass – the Orillia Silver Band’s annual presentation of Sleigh Bells and Brass
Downtown Orillia is also full of pop-up concerts and festive performances throughout the season. Stop by local restaurants and smaller stages for local talent.
Extend your visit by booking an overnight stay in Orillia
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Enjoy everything Orillia has to offer and make it a getaway. Stay at one of Orillia’s cozy hotels near Downtown Orillia
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