Christmas in Canada

Bright lights, big, knitted sweaters and the holiday spirit are embraced by tourists and locals alike during Christmas in Canada. From a Hot Chocolate Trail and a German Christmas market, to Canada’s largest lights display at a natural wonder, you and your family will certainly have a joyous holiday with a visit to any one of these cozy destinations. 

 1. Banff, Alberta 

What better way to warm up during the holiday season than with 20+ flavors of hot chocolate? With Banff and Lake Louise’s Hot Chocolate Trail, each restaurant on the trail features delicious, limited-edition holiday-themed hot chocolate. Choose from a Salted Chocolate Orange Mocha to Chait This Hot Chocolate to Elf Fuel – try one or all of the many choices. Another fun activity is to go to Banff National Park for a wildlife light show, with the production In Search of Christmas Spirit. This free outdoors show will be sure to delight the kids in your family.  

Book your stay with  Best Western Plus Banff International Lodge.

2. Niagara Falls, Ontario 

Niagara Falls is always a majestic sight to see, but in the wintertime, it illuminates with dazzling colors that can’t be missed. The 42nd annual Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights –  Canada’s largest outdoor light festival – has over 3 million lights along with an ornate light sculpture and inspirational paths that will bring joy to all ages. It is open for 51 nights, from November to January, so come meet and greet Santa and explore the intricate displays – and don’t forget to bundle up.  

Book your stay with Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel.  

3. Québec City, Québec 

The largest Christmas market in Québec is back, and it’s more charming than ever. The Marché de Nöel Allemand de Québec is a German Christmas market with over 90 exhibitors in traditional wooden kiosks, welcoming you with the warmth of Old Québec European charm. Enjoy local handmade products, tasty pretzels and mulled wine. For unique entertainment, go view the giant puppets, Saint Nicholas and Krampus accompanied by musicians and other characters. Explore all the festivities in one visit or in many.  

Book your stay with Best Western Premier Hotel Aristocrate.  

4. Vancouver, British Columbia 

The Canyon Lights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, is one of the most unique Christmas activities you can explore in Canada. This world-famous bridge, suspended above the Capilano River, is lit end-to-end with a multitude of colors that will make crossing the canyon even more memorable and magical. For an even more thrill-seeking activity, walk along the cliffsides of the narrow and dizzying Cliffwalk. 

Book your stay with Best Western Plus Sands. 

5. Toronto, Ontario 

Canada’s Wonderland Winterfest is one of the most anticipated holiday events of the year, with endless activities.  The little ones can make cookies for Santa in Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen, and you can’t forget to ice skate on the picturesque and lit-up Snow Flake Lake. There are also themed light displays and picture-perfect spots everywhere, from strolling Candy Cane Lane to Charlie Brown’s Christmas Town.  

Book your stay with Best Western Plus Travel Hotel Toronto Airport.