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Team Pinto's Ultimate Guide to Holiday Activities in Kitchener/Waterloo 2024

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the holidays in KW? As your local real estate experts, we've compiled the most comprehensive guide to festive activities in our region. From dazzling light displays to charming markets, here's everything you need to know to make this season magical.

Major Events




  • Location: Cambridge/Galt at 10 Malcolm St.

  • Time: Arrives 16.15PM, Show follows

  • Free admission, bring non-perishable food items for donation

  • Features live performances from Canadian musicians

  • Perfect photo opportunity with the brilliantly lit train

  • Hot chocolate and treats available from local vendors

  • There are also dates this year in Hamilton and London.



  • Location: Kitchener City Hall

  • Hours: Thurs-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-4pm

  • Features over 90 vendors

  • Traditional German food including schnitzel, bratwurst, and lebkuchen

  • Daily live entertainment including choirs and brass bands

  • Kids' activities including visits with St. Nicholas

  • Heated outdoor beer garden with German imports

  • Free admission



  • Tree Lighting Ceremony, December 6, 7pm, Waterloo Public Square

  • Ice skating at Waterloo Public Square (Daily)

    • Free skate rentals on weekends

    • Holiday music and light shows

  • Shopping nights with extended hours every Thursday in December

  • Artisan Winter Market December 6 from 7-10PM and December 7 from 10AM-4PM.

  • Street performers and carolers on weekends



  • Locations: Cambridge City Hall (50 Dickson St) and Cambridge Centre for the Arts (60 Dickson St)

  • Saturday December 14, 2024 - 8am to 4 pm

    Sunday December 15, 2024 - 10 am to 4 pm 

  • Features local artisans and food producers

  • Live music performances

  • Children's craft workshops

  • Firepit activities

  • Photos with Santa




St. Jacobs is transforming into a winter wonderland this holiday season, offering a unique blend of festive cheer and small-town charm. Here's what you can expect:

  • St. Jacobs Farmers' Market Holiday Sip & Shop: Enjoy extended hours and festive fun at the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market on select evenings in December. Shop for local crafts, enjoy live music, and sip on delicious holiday beverages. It's the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts and support local artisans.

  • St. Jacobs Village: Take a stroll through the charming village of St. Jacobs, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Explore the unique shops and boutiques, offering a wide variety of treasures for everyone on your list.

  • "A Christmas Carol" at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse:  Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a live performance of "A Christmas Carol" at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse. This classic tale will delight audiences of all ages.

  • Santa's Railway at the Waterloo Central Railway: Embark on a magical journey with Santa Claus on the Waterloo Central Railway. Enjoy a scenic train ride, festive treats, and a visit with Santa himself. It's a memorable experience for the whole family.

Theatre & Entertainment


  • A Christmas Carol: The Panto at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse: This classic holiday tale gets a hilarious twist with Drayton Entertainment's panto production. Expect witty humor, festive music, and audience interaction that will have you laughing and singing along. The show runs from November 28th, 2024 to January 5th, 2025. It's a delightful way to experience the magic of A Christmas Carol with the whole family.

  • Merry & Bright at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse:  Get ready for a heartwarming musical revue filled with your favorite holiday songs! This celebration of Christmas classics will have you tapping your toes and singing along. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. The show runs from November 14th, 2024 to December 24th, 2024.

  • Irving Berlin's White Christmas at the Dunfield Theatre Cambridge: This stage adaptation of the beloved film brings the magic of White Christmas to life with stunning choreography, beautiful sets, and unforgettable songs. It's a heartwarming story about love, friendship, and the spirit of Christmas. The show runs from November 13th, 2024 to December 29th, 2024.

  • Other Festive Performances:  Don't forget to check out the local theatre scene for other holiday-themed productions. The Centre In The Square and the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts often host festive shows throughout December, offering a variety of entertainment options for all ages.


Outdoor Light Displays



  • Drive-through experience with 3+ million lights

  • Two tunnels and dozens of animated displays

  • Open nightly from 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM November 22, 2024 - January 4, 2025

  • Hot chocolate and snacks available

  • November 15, 2024 - January 5, 2025

  • Both parks lit nightly from dusk until 11 PM

  • Free admission

  • Walking trails and photo opportunities

  • Weekend food vendors

  • Special events on Friday nights, including:

    • Ice sculpture demonstrations

    • Fire performances

    • Live music


Find the Perfect Tree




Benjamin Tree Farm (Waterloo): This local farm offers a wide selection of trees, from table toppers to towering pines. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, complimentary hot apple cider and cookies, and even bring your leashed dog along for the adventure!


Elliott Tree Farm (Hillsburgh): Just a short drive from Kitchener/Waterloo, this farm boasts fresh-cut fir trees and a cut-your-own option with spruce and pine. Don't miss their 1850 Heritage Gift Barn for unique ornaments and delicious maple syrup.


Evergreen Tree Farm (Guelph): Create a memorable family tradition at this farm, where you can choose your tree under sparkling lights and even roast marshmallows around a campfire. They also offer a store with ornaments and craft workshops.


Moving to KW? Let's Make It Home for the Holidays



Experiencing our vibrant holiday season firsthand makes many people fall in love with Kitchener-Waterloo. If you're considering making our community your home, Team Pinto is here to help. With years of experience in the KW real estate market, we know exactly how to help you find the perfect neighbourhood to create your own holiday traditions.

Why Work with Team Pinto?

  • Deep knowledge of KW neighbourhoods and market trends

  • Proven track record with 500+ successful transactions in 2023

  • Full-service team including dedicated buyer specialists

  • Access to exclusive listings and off-market properties

  • Comprehensive relocation support services

Ready to make KW your home? Contact Team Pinto today:

Book your free, no-obligation consultation and let's discuss how we can help you find your perfect home in time for next year's holiday season!

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