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 Pre-Black Friday Shopping
Thursday November 21
On the evening of Thursday November 21st you can wander the charming streets of Downtown Orillia and take advantage of special offers at select downtown businesses. Feel good crossing some gifts off your list and supporting small business. Shoppers can win one of three prizes of $50 Downtown Dollars.
Learn more.
Children’s Candlelight Parade
Friday November 22, 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 22, 7:30pm
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 22, 3-7pm
Take a stroll through Downtown Orillia, enjoy local crafts, festive treats, and the warmth of community spirit! Located inside the Orillia Public Library and the Orillia Opera House! Two locations, twice as many vendors, endless holiday magic!
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Orillia Christmas Market
Friday November 22, 5-9pm & Saturday November 23, 10am-4pm
Creative Nomad Studios hosts The 4th 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 horse drawn wagon rides, a gingerbread house building competition and gnome and ornament making. The big guy himself will be around Friday night for Selfies with Santa.
Learn more.
Santa Claus Parade
Saturday November 23, 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 119th 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.
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.