There’s an Ontario village that turns into a Christmas wonderland with horse-drawn wagon rides

You may have visited Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market before, but this time of year, the area is extra special. St. Jacobs Village in Ontario is hosting “Sparkles”, a holiday experience with lights, carollers, horse-drawn wagon rides and my personal favourite – a hot chocolate bar.

Getting there

The Village of St. Jacobs is just an hour and a half by car from Toronto/The GTA.

The Sparkles holiday festivities are happening all around the village, so all you need to do is get there and pick where you want to begin your whimsical adventure.

Exploring Sparkles

Week two of Sparkles in St. Jacobs Village kicks off on November 21st, running all weekend until the 24th.

On the evening of the 21st, there will be carollers on King and Front Street from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. What better way to get into the Christmas spirit?

Friday evening will feature a hot chocolate bar for guests to enjoy and if you really want to warm up, head to the St. Jacobs Fire Department for their Burn Barrel & Cider event.

Visitors can join the firefighters in exploring the fire truck and grab a cup of cider by a big, open fire.

Block Three Brewing will not only have its own beverages available but it will also have live music to enjoy from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Festive horse-drawn trolley rides will take guests on a charming ride through the village, running all weekend long.

If you’re hoping to get some holiday shopping down, the village has a list of shops that have extended their hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights so those who are out and about for Sparkles can knock a few things off their list.

Whether you live nearby or want to make a holiday road trip out of it, St. Jacobs, Ontario is the ultimate spot this Christmas season.

St. Jacobs Village Sparkles

When: November 21st – 24th, 2024
Where: Various locations in St. Jacobs, Ontario
Cost: Free