Dreamy Christmas Towns You Won’t Believe Are in Canada

Even though winter in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is on the milder side, the city truly sparkles during the holiday season. At Christmas, the lights are everywhere, from the impressive Legislature Buildings to the boats in the harbor. You can take a charming carriage ride, admire the stunning gardens lit up for the holidays, capture some great shots at themed light displays, and dive into festive markets overflowing with local delights.

Banff is the perfect picture of a magical Christmas town, complete with gorgeous mountain views and rustic architecture. The stunning landscape, featuring snow-dusted peaks and frosted pine trees, feels like a scene from a holiday postcard. There’s so much to do, from ice skating on the lake to wandering through charming shops packed with one-of-a-kind gifts and festive goodies.

When winter rolls around, Winnipeg becomes a gorgeous Christmas wonderland that draws in everyone who comes to explore. The Exchange District, with its historic buildings, really shines as a favourite spot for filmmakers looking to capture the holiday spirit in feel-good Christmas flicks. With its delightful shops, lively markets and warm cafes, it sets the perfect scene for seasonal magic.

Almonte, located in the Mississippi Mills area near Ottawa, has definitely earned its title as one of Canada’s most delightful Christmas towns. This riverside gem, with its lovely historic buildings, has been the setting for a ton of holiday movies—seriously, it’s a lot! There’s also a Christmas tree farm in Pakenham that’s made its mark on screen. With amazing light displays, concerts, gorgeous decorations, and a festive Christmas night parade, it’s a place you won’t want to miss in December.

Baie-Saint-Paul in Charlevoix really comes alive during the holiday season, offering a delightful atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Picture beautiful snowy scenery, outdoor skating and family-friendly entertainment all around. The star of the show is the European-style Christmas market on St-Jean-Baptiste Street, returning in 2024 with over 40 exhibitors ready to offer crafts, local artisanal goodies, and more.

Niagara-on-the-Lake really shines during the holidays, and it’s no surprise that it’s been featured in some beloved Christmas films. The town turns into a stunning winter wonderland, decked out with sparkling lights and festive decor that makes everything feel cozy and welcoming. You can wander through the charming streets, where cute shops are filled with one-of-a-kind gifts and tasty seasonal goodies.

Québec might be all about the Winter Carnival, but Old Québec City is where Christmas dreams come true. The cobblestone streets, snowy rooftops and twinkling lights create a nostalgic holiday vibe. Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll be greeted by the delicious aroma of baked goods and the cheerful melodies of Christmas carols filling the air.

Nestled on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, Mahone Bay is a lovely seaside town famous for its gorgeous waterfront and the annual Father Christmas Festival. You can enjoy scenic trails, outdoor activities, one-of-a-kind shopping, artisans at work, and restaurants serving up mouthwatering food and drinks, all with a stunning ocean backdrop. As you wander through the town, you’ll come across interactive displays and charming scenes that are perfect for snapping photos and capturing memories.

Bay Roberts is a lovely seaside town about an hour from St. John’s, with a history stretching back to the 16th century. It played a significant role in Newfoundland & Labrador’s fishing industry in the past, but these days, it’s a family-friendly spot that loves to celebrate year-round. When Christmas rolls around, the town comes alive with the Festival of Lights, showcasing the largest nativity collection east of Montreal, plus concerts, craft workshops, parades, and the province’s first intelligent light park.

Dawson City, Yukon, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, making it an enchanting location. Visitors can stroll through the streets, taking in some of the vibrant buildings that were once the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush. A major highlight of this festive time is the Celebration of Lights, where the town shines with amazing displays, festive decor, a tree lighting ceremony and a welcoming bonfire.