Categories: Things To Do

There’s a traditional Christmas market near the shores of this Ontario town

Image via Christmas On The Bay

If there’s one thing worth road tripping for, it’s a good ol’ fashion Christmas market. Meaford is located along the southern shore of Georgian Bay, and each year, the area puts on a traditional Christmas market that perfectly emulates the joy of the season.

Known as Christmas on the Bay, the market features wooden kiosks displaying locals’ labour of love, including treats, artisan goods, beverages, and more.

This year’s market will run from Thursday, Dec. 4, to Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025.

The market will be open Thursday and Friday from 2 to 8 p.m., on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Christmas on the Bay provides all the festive lights, sounds, smells, experiences, and ambiance you would expect to put you into the perfect festive spirit,” shares the organization.

This initiative is a true testament to how much the locals love their area, as the Christmas market is completely volunteer-run.

“We are an enthusiastic group of local residents, all volunteers, who had a vision to invite our community and guests to engage in a magical event celebrating who we are on South Georgian Bay at the festive time of year. We wanted to offer something unique to the area that would include community groups, local shops and restaurants, talented artisans from near and afield, all entertaining and fêting the spirit of the season,” organizers explain.

Each day has a lineup of events, too.

Some of those events include live music, crafts (with free hot chocolate), cookie decorating, visits from Santa, a Santa Claus parade, and even a few surprises.

Admission is free to the market, but be sure to check the events before attending, as some of them require an entry fee.

Happy holidays!