This Ontario town is transforming for the holidays with over 130,000 lights and festive markets

The town of Oakville is embracing the festive spirit, transforming its streets into the ultimate holiday destination starting this month. Every nook and cranny will have its own celebration, some of which will illuminate the night sky until December.

From twinkling lights and tree-lighting ceremonies to one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, and holiday events, you’ll want to head west of Toronto to experience all the fun.

What to do in Oakville for the holidays

If you thought Toronto was going to be busy, think again. Oakville has unveiled an exciting lineup of holiday experiences for all to enjoy.

Think twinkling lights, holiday markets, seasonal performances and more. Here are some of the events to check out:

• Light up the Night – Downtown Oakville will shine bright with its annual tree lighting, festive holiday cheer, and seasonal activities, including the beloved Sugar Plums in Towne Square.
  • When: Nov. 14, 2025
    Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• Oakville Santa Claus Parade– This year’s theme is Snow Much Fun, which celebrates the joy of winter recreation activities like skating, sledding, snowball fights, and all the snowy adventures that make the season magical. There will be a complimentary Oakville Transit Santa Shuttle from the Oakville GO Station to the Trafalgar Park Community Centre parking lot.
  • When: Nov. 15, 2025
  • Time: 9 a.m.

• At Home in Bronte for the Holidays – Bronte’s charming Market Square will sparkle as the village hosts its annual tree lighting, a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
  • When: Nov. 22, 2025
  • Time: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Kerr Village Tree Lighting and Holiday Market – Head to Kerr Village for a joyful tree lighting and stick around for a Holiday Pop Up Market and live musical entertainment. The tree lighting ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m.
  • When: Nov. 29, 2025
  • Time: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Holiday Lights by the Lake – One of Oakville’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Holiday Lights by the Lake at Coronation Park, will light up the waterfront with over 130,000 sparkling lights. This festive experience will run all through the holiday season
  • When: Dec. 1, 2025, to February 2026

• Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday Cheer – Enjoy family-friendly activities including: Candy Cane Carollers, Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, Photos with Santa, Hot Cocoa, and so much more.
  • When: Nov. 29, 2025, Dec. 6, 13, and 20, 2025
  • Time: Noon to 4 p.m.

“Each year, Oakville becomes a destination for holiday magic and heartwarming holiday moments,” said Rebecca Edgar, executive director of Visit Oakville.

“From cozy museum events to dazzling lights by the lake, we invite guests to stay a little longer, immerse themselves in the festive spirit, and make lasting memories.”

The full list of events can be found on the official Visit Oakville site.

Will you be making the journey this holiday season? We sure will!

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