Kitchener, Ontario, is home to some of Canada’s most charming Christmas markets, offering visitors a chance to experience the holiday season with festive food, unique gifts, and an abundance of holiday cheer. From traditional holiday markets to artsy pop-up events, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here’s a guide to the top Kitchener Christmas Markets you should visit, along with all the essential details for planning your trip.
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Toggle1. Kitchener Market Christmas Market
In the heart of Kitchener, Ontario, the magical winter attraction The Kitchener Christmas Market at Victoria Park brings the holiday alive. Nestled in the gorgeous Victoria Park, this market is a magical fusion of custom, festive enthusiasm, and history. The little wooden chalets, which include a variety of unusual presents, handcrafted items, and celebratory cuisine, will enthrall visitors. Entering the market will send you into a winter wonderland complete with cinnamon and pine smells and glittering lights. It is an experience rather than only a place to purchase. Against the backdrop of a wonderfully decorated park, the market offers an interesting mix of live entertainment ranging from carolers and musical performances to interactive seminars. The Kitchener Christmas Market is the ideal place to get into the festive mood whether your search is for one-of- a-kind presents, classic holiday fare, or just want to enjoy the festive environment with family and friends. Don’t miss the chance to make lifelong memories at this yearly celebration that perfectly embodies Christmas enchantment here in Kitchener. Discover Austrian holiday charm among the Christmas Markets in Innsbruck.
Address: 300 King Street E, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Mondays – Fridays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sundays: Closed
Events at Kitchener Market Christmas Market
- Holiday Craft Fair: Local artisans display handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, and more.
- Santa’s Workshop: Kids can participate in arts and crafts while meeting Santa.
- Live Christmas Music: Various performances by local musicians throughout the market days.
- Gingerbread House Competition: Watch local bakers compete for the best gingerbread house design.
- Christmas Cookie Decorating: A fun family activity to decorate your Christmas cookies.
Famous Shops and Stalls to Visit
- Wooden Creations: Hand-carved wooden gifts and decorations made by local artisans.
- Gingerbread Kitchen: Freshly baked cookies and other sweet holiday treats.
- Christmas Tree Farm: Real Christmas trees for sale in various sizes and shapes.
- Handmade Jewelry by Jen: Unique, custom-made jewelry perfect for holiday gifts.
- Candlelight Creations: Beautiful handmade candles in festive scents.
Special Spots to Visit
- Gingerbread Lane: A special area where visitors can marvel at intricate gingerbread houses.
- Santa’s Sleigh Ride: A photo-op with Santa’s sleigh, perfect for family photos.
- The Nutcracker Display: A stunning display of Nutcracker figurines and themed décor.
- The Snowman Parade: A festive parade featuring decorated snowmen from around the market.
- Holiday Photo Booth: A themed booth to take holiday photos with your loved ones.
Entrance Fee: Free
Where to Buy Tickets: Kitchener Market Website
Nearest T Stations:
Kitchener GO Station
Fairway LRT Station
Parking & Parking Fee: Free parking is available with limited spots; paid parking after hours.
Nearby Hotels
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Kitchener
- The Waterloo Inn Conference Hotel
- Kitchener-Waterloo Marriott Hotel
- Holiday Inn Kitchener-Waterloo
- The Westmount Inn
Nearby Restaurants
- The Berlin Restaurant
- The Bauer Kitchen
- King Street Trio
- The Kitchener Market Café
- Café Pyrus
2. Christkindl Market Kitchener
One of Ontario’s most cherished holiday customs, the Christkindl Market Kitchener brings a European-style Christmas market right into the heart of Kitchener. Inspired by Germany’s well-known Christmas markets, this festival presents the finest of festive cuisine, arts, handicaps, and entertainment. Visitors will be surrounded by beautiful wooden booths featuring handcrafted ornaments, unusual presents, and mouthwatering cuisine including bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and warm mulled wine. Festive music and classic German carols filling the streets improve the market’s cosiness. The many events, from horse-drawn carriage rides to cookie decorating, will thrill families and friends.The Christkindl Market is a true winter wonderland; it also boasts a beautiful Christmas tree where visitors could gather for photos and let the holiday spirit permeate. Here you can go present shopping, enjoy Christmas food, and spend time with loved ones. The Christkindl Market is a must-see Christmas festivity guaranteed to leave lifetime memories regardless of your vacation experience—first-time or seasoned.
Address:
46 King Street W, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Dates: December 5 – December 8, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Thursday – Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee:
$5 for adults, free for children under 12
Where to Buy Tickets: Christkindl Market Website
Nearest T Stations:
Kitchener GO Station
Fairway LRT Station
Parking & Parking Fee:
Parking is available in nearby lots, with a fee of approximately CAD 10 per day.
Events at Christkindl Market
- European-Style Glühwein Tent: Enjoy traditional German mulled wine in a cozy outdoor tent.
- Children’s Christmas Crafts: Fun workshops for kids to create their own holiday crafts.
- Bavarian Christmas Dance: Enjoy live traditional German folk dancing performances.
- Live Choir Performances: Local choirs sing their favorite Christmas carols.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Take a scenic ride through downtown Kitchener in a horse-drawn carriage.
Famous Shops and Stalls to Visit
- German Market Delights: Authentic German sausages, pretzels, and pastries.
- Frosty’s Snow Globes: Snow globes, handcrafted ornaments, and unique winter décor.
- Holiday Wreaths and Greens: Fresh Christmas wreaths and greenery are available for sale.
- Kitchener’s Best Chocolates: Handcrafted chocolates and other delicious sweets.
- Bee’s Knees Creations: Beautiful handmade jewelry and accessories perfect for gift-giving.
Special Spots to Visit
- Glühwein Tent: A cozy tent serving mulled wine, ideal for getting into the festive spirit.
- Santa’s Workshop: A magical space where kids can meet Santa and tell him their wishes.
- Bavarian Beer Garden: Relax in a traditional beer garden with festive drinks and snacks.
- Ice Sculpture Display: Stunning ice sculptures created live by talented artists.
- The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Watch the grand lighting of the Christmas tree at the market’s entrance.
Nearby Hotels
- The Crowne Plaza Kitchener-Waterloo
- Best Western Plus Kitchener-Waterloo
- Four Points by Sheraton Kitchener
- Hotel Laurier
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Kitchener
Nearby Restaurants
- The Uptown 21 Restaurant
- The Charcoal Group Restaurant
- Borealis Grille & Bar
- The Cactus Club Café
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
3. St. Jacob’s Christmas Market
The Christmas Farmers’ Market at Kitchener is a delightful holiday tradition offering a unique shopping experience, combining local produce and festive cheer in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Situated in the heart of Kitchener, this market is perfect for those looking to celebrate the season with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and handcrafted gifts. The market’s festive charm is highlighted by various seasonal goods, from fresh holiday produce and homemade preserves to artisanal crafts and holiday decorations. You can browse the market’s diverse stalls, where local farmers and artisans showcase their best seasonal offerings, perfect for adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.Apart from shopping, the market provides other interesting events for the entire family including holiday cookie exchanges and festive cookery demonstrations. Pies, cakes, and fresh-baked items are among the best locally manufactured holiday delicacies available in the market as well. The Christmas Farmers’ Market at Kitchener is the ideal venue for a really local Christmas shopping experience whether your goal is to buy the ideal gift or compile supplies for a holiday feast.
Address: 15 Albert Street, St. Jacobs, Ontario, Canada
Dates: December 6 – December 22, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Fridays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sundays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Where to Buy Tickets: St. Jacob’s Market Website
Nearest T Stations:
Kitchener GO Station
Fairway LRT Station
Parking & Parking Fee: The market’s lot offers free parking, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.
Events at St. Jacob’s Christmas Market
- Christmas Carol Sing-Along: Gather with fellow visitors to sing your favorite holiday songs.
- Christmas Tree Maze: Explore a festive maze of trees local businesses decorate.
- Cooking Demonstrations: Watch chefs prepare holiday meals and learn tips for your own celebrations.
- Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus: Take family photos with Santa and his wife, Mrs. Claus.
- Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides: Enjoy a scenic ride through the Christmas-decorated streets of St. Jacobs.
Famous Shops and Stalls to Visit
- Country Decor & Gifts: Offering a variety of rustic home décor and country-themed gifts.
- St. Jacob’s Cheese Shop: Known for its selection of artisanal cheeses from the region.
- Christmas Candleworks: Handmade candles in festive scents, perfect for holiday gifts.
- Maple Lane Creations: Woodcrafts and homemade goods like cutting boards and kitchenware.
- The Good Loaf Bakery: Famous for their seasonal baked goods, including pies, cookies, and gingerbread.
Special Spots to Visit
- Santa’s Reindeer Farm: A special area where kids can interact with real reindeer.
- The Artisan Marketplace: A spot where you can shop for handmade crafts from local artisans.
- The Christmas Lantern Display: A beautiful display of colorful lanterns, perfect for evening strolls.
- The Gingerbread House Contest: A display of creative gingerbread houses made by local participants.
- The St. Jacobs Train Station: A historic site that adds a nostalgic touch to your market visit.
Nearby Hotels
- The Inn at the Falls
- St. Jacobs Country Inn
- Elmira Motel
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Waterloo-St. Jacobs
- Waterloo Inn Conference Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- The Stone Crock Restaurant
- The Village Inn
- Sushi Star
- Jack’s Family Restaurant
- The Charcoal Pit Restaurant
4. Cambridge Christmas Market
Celebrating local history, culture, and community spirit as well as the seasonal appeal, the Uptown Kitchener Holiday Market Tucked in the heart of Kitchener’s vibrant uptown, this market offers visitors a pleasant surroundings brimming with festive energy. From handcrafted jewelry and art to delectable culinary products and seasonal treats, the market presents an incredible array of locally made goods. More than just shopping, though; with its energetic schedule of events and activities, the Uptown Kitchener Holiday Market offers something for everyone. Visitors might appreciate the thrill of outdoor ice skating, engage in hands-on artistic projects, or witness local artists perform live. Families will value the variety of kid-friendly activities, including Christmas games and Santa visits. From roasted chestnuts and freshly prepared meals to hot cocoa and mulled wine, the holiday market also features a range of food vendors offering excellent seasonal cuisine. Whether your search is for the perfect gift, tantalizing holiday cuisine,
Address: 1 Water Street N, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
Dates: December 12 – December 14, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $3 for adults, free for children under 12
Where to Buy Tickets: Cambridge Christmas Market Website
Nearest T Stations:
Cambridge GO Station
Galt Station
Parking & Parking Fee: Free parking is available near the event venue.
Events at Cambridge Christmas Market
- Holiday Horse Rides: Take a festive ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the historic downtown.
- Christmas Cookie Bake-Off: Watch local bakers compete to create the best Christmas cookies.
- Live Caroling Performances: Enjoy performances from local choirs and musical groups.
- Holiday Ice Sculpting: Watch live demonstrations as ice sculptors carve festive designs.
- Christmas Lights Parade: A nighttime parade featuring brilliantly lit floats and holiday cheer.
Famous Shops and Stalls to Visit
- Cambridge Candles: Hand-poured, holiday-scented candles that are perfect for gifts.
- Sweet Christmas Treats: Locally made candies, fudge, and chocolates.
- The Christmas Decor Shop: Find beautiful ornaments, wreaths, and garlands to decorate your home.
- The Handmade Soap Stand: Unique, hand-crafted soaps made with natural ingredients.
- Hometown Jewelry: Custom-made jewelry from local artists, perfect for the holiday season.
Special Spots to Visit
- Santa’s Workshop: A place where kids can write letters to Santa and take photos.
- The Candy Cane Lane: A festive lane lined with candy cane displays and lights.
- The Christmas Tree Display: Admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees throughout the venue.
- Holiday Train Ride: A miniature train ride through a winter wonderland setup.
- Festival of Lights: A stunning light display featuring thousands of twinkling lights.
Nearby Hotels
- Holiday Inn Cambridge
- The Cambridge Suites Hotel
- Best Western Plus Cambridge Hotel
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cambridge
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Cambridge
Nearby Restaurants
- The Mill Race Restaurant
- The Cambridge Bistro
- La Fontana Ristorante
- Savoury & Sweet Cafe
- The Keg Steakhouse & Bar
5. Elmira Christmas Market
A colorful and interesting addition to the Christmas landscape of the city is the Downtown Kitchener Christmas Pop-Up Market. This market, which is right in the middle of the city, provides a distinctive pop-up experience whereby guests may discover, all within a holiday-themed environment, a carefully chosen mix of local artists, food vendors, and entertainment. Just a few weeks in December, this seasonal market offers a great chance to buy for one-of- a-kind gifts, savor mouthwatering holiday cuisine, and enjoy the city’s downtown charm during the most wonderful time of year. Running for a few weeks in December From families with small children to holiday aficionados, events include the Christmas Parade of Lights, hot chocolate bar and interactive art installations offer something for everyone.The Downtown Kitchener Holiday Pop-Up Market is the place to be if you want to sample regional goods, eat holiday-inspired cuisine, or simply enjoy the festive ambiance. Don’t miss the photo opportunities with Santa’s elves, the stunning light tunnels, and the Christmas music playing throughout. This market embraces the true spirit of the season, with fun events and local flair to make your holiday shopping experience joyful.
Address: 10 Church Street West, Elmira, Ontario, Canada
Dates: December 6 – December 21, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Fridays: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sundays: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Nearest T Stations:
Elmira GO Station
Kitchener GO Station
Parking & Parking Fee: Free parking is available at the market’s designated parking area.
Events at Elmira Christmas Market
- Elf Workshop: Children can visit Santa’s elves and create their own holiday crafts.
- Live Music Performances: Enjoy festive music performed by local artists and bands.
- Caroling in the Streets: Join local carolers singing Christmas classics throughout the market.
- Christmas Market Parade: A fun and festive parade with floats, dancers, and performers.
- DIY Gift Wrapping Station: A free station where visitors can get their gifts wrapped in festive paper.
Famous Shops and Stalls to Visit
- Elmira Handmade Goods: Unique handcrafted gifts, including woodcrafts, pottery, and jewelry.
- Sweets & Treats Bakery: A local bakery known for its Christmas cookies, pies, and cupcakes.
- Christmas Candles and More: Scented candles and holiday décor to brighten up your home.
- The Elmira Chocolate Shop: Chocolate truffles and other decadent holiday treats.
- The Wooden Toy Shop: Beautiful handmade wooden toys for young children.
Special Spots to Visit
- Santa’s Sleigh Ride: Take a ride in Santa’s sleigh for a magical experience.
- The Toy Train Village comprises miniature toy trains and festive decorations.
- The Holiday Fountain: A stunning fountain surrounded by twinkling lights and Christmas greenery.
- Snowman Street: A delightful street lined with snowman-themed decorations.
- Christmas Stocking Contest: A fun activity where you can participate in a stocking decorating contest.
Nearby Hotels
- Elmira Motel
- Best Western Plus St. Jacobs Country Inn
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Waterloo
- The Waterloo Inn Conference Hotel
- The Inn at the Falls
Nearby Restaurants
- The Butcher’s Block
- McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill
- The Elmira Family Restaurant
- Mill Street Bistro