125 Years of History and Curling Day in Canada
A Double Celebration on Ice This winter, the air in Muskoka won’t just be crisp-it will be electric. On January 31, 2026, Huntsville is set to become the epicenter of […]
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A Winter Wonderland Awaits
There's something truly enchanting about the holiday season in Muskoka. As the first snowflakes begin to fall and the crisp winter air settles over the lakes, Huntsville transforms into a magical winter wonderland that captures the very essence of the season. The downtown streets sparkle with twinkling lights, the sound of carolers fills the air, and the community comes alive with festive celebrations that warm even the coldest winter night. Whether you're seeking family-friendly entertainment, world-class musical performances, or charming artisan markets, Huntsville's holiday season offers an unforgettable experience that will fill your heart with joy and create memories to last a lifetime.
The Grand Holiday Kick-Off Weekend: November 28-30
The magic officially begins with a spectacular kick-off weekend from November 28-30, when Huntsville pulls out all the stops to usher in the holiday season. This is when the town truly comes alive, offering a perfect blend of tradition, entertainment, shopping, and community spirit.
Friday, November 28: An Evening of Magic
The festivities begin as the community gathers for the Annual Tree Lighting ceremony in Kent Park (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM), to celebrate the official start of the holiday season and watch as the town illuminates for the holidays.
Following the tree lighting, the beloved Huntsville Santa Claus Parade takes over at 7:00 PM. Watch as beloved characters from your favourite stories come to life along Main and King William streets, travelling from Lorne Street all the way to Huntsville Place Mall. It's a dazzling procession of lights, floats, and of course, Santa himself, that will delight children and adults alike.
Saturday, November 29: A Day of Discovery
Saturday transforms downtown Huntsville into a shopper's paradise with not one, but three incredible markets running simultaneously.
Start your morning at the Muskoka Market: Huntsville's Holiday Edition (11:00 AM - 8:00 PM), a truly spectacular event that takes over Main Street with over 50 incredible vendors. This isn't just shopping—it's an experience. Snap photos with Santa, enjoy live music and carolling, marvel at the Snow Fairy on stilts, play holiday games, and watch LED hula hoop walkers light up the street. Strike a pose at the Ultimate Holiday Selfie Station, take the kids on a trackless holiday train ride through downtown, cozy up by fire pits while holiday movies play in the background, and warm up at the Light-Up LED Licensed Lounge with mulled wine and spiked hot chocolate. The magic of the season comes alive in every corner.
Then explore Hoppy Holiday Market at Canvas Brewing Co. (11:00 AM - 5:00 PM), featuring over 40 vendors from around the area. Shop local, sip craft beverages, and discover unique gifts while supporting small businesses and artisans.
As you’re exploring the town, be sure to stop in at Huntsville Art Society's Christmas Marketplace inside Partners Hall at the Algonquin Theatre. Featuring 11 talented vendors, you'll discover original art, handcrafted cards, stunning photography, unique jewellery, hand-printed clothing, beautiful home decor items, and so much more. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts that truly capture the artistic spirit of Muskoka.
Cap off the evening with Jay Davis - Bublé Christmas at the Algonquin Theatre (7:30 PM). Canadian Musical Theatre star Jay Davis, backed by his world-class Feeling Buble Band, delivers all of Michael Bublé's hits and Christmas classics with dazzling vocals and mischievous charm. Special guest Amberley Beatty joins the stage with her exhilarating interpretation of Shania Twain, making this a Christmas tribute to Canadian legends you won't want to miss.
Sunday, November 30: Final Day to Explore
The holiday celebrations don't end on Saturday! Two markets continue into Sunday, giving you even more time to explore and shop. The Hoppy Holiday Market returns for its final day (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM), offering one last chance to enjoy the festivities at Canvas Brewing Co.
The Huntsville Art Society's Christmas Marketplace also brings their 11 talented artists back to Partners Hall at the Algonquin Theatre for an additional day of artistic Muskoka holiday spirit.
December Delights: World-Class Entertainment
As we move into December, Huntsville continues to shine with an impressive lineup of performances and events.
December 5-6: Hawksley Workman - Almost a Full Moon
JUNO Award-winning singer-songwriter Hawksley Workman brings his special unplugged acoustic performance to Trinity United Church's intimate sanctuary. Celebrating Christmas, community, family, and singing, this cozy concert features songs from Hawksley's classic Christmas record Almost a Full Moon and other favourites. With two performances—December 5 at 7:30 PM and December 6 at 2:00 PM—this is a rare opportunity to experience one of Canada's most genre-defying artists in an intimate setting.
December 12: Tartan Terrors Celtic Christmas
Get ready for a high-energy Celtic celebration at the Algonquin Theatre! The Tartan Terrors bring their Celtic Invasion to Huntsville, blending the energy of a rock show with humour and stepdance. Featuring an arsenal of classic pipes and fiddle, along with driving drum tones, electric bass, and signature guitar styles, the band creates a modern, high-energy rock sound infused with traditional Celtic folklore and dance. The Tartan Terrors have performed on four different continents at some of the most prestigious festivals, highland games, and theatres across North America. This is Celtic music like you've never experienced it before—fun, accessible, and absolutely electrifying!
December 13: Jann Arden Christmas Tour
Celebrate the holidays with Alberta's own Jann Arden at Deerhurst Resort (8:00 PM). This multi-platinum, award-winning artist puts her unique spin on the Christmas classics you know and love, featured on her 2015 release A Jann Arden Christmas. With 8 JUNO Awards, an induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and the Order of Canada to her name, Jann Arden is a Canadian original who captivates audiences with her heartfelt music and quick wit. This is a holiday concert experience you simply cannot miss.
December 20-21: Grinched! A Holiday Panto
Perfect for the whole family, Grinched! A Holiday Panto brings a laugh-out-loud twist to Dr. Seuss's classic tale to the Algonquin Theatre. Written and directed by Robin Clipsham and presented by Huntsville Festival of the Arts in partnership with the Huntsville Theatre Company, this brand-new production features talented local community members in a side-splitting, toe-tapping show filled with outrageous costumes, over-the-top characters, hilarious hijinks, and plenty of audience participation. With three performances only—December 20 at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and December 21 at 3:00 PM—this is the merriest mischief in Muskoka this holiday season.
The Portage Flyer Christmas Train: A Muskoka Tradition
No holiday season in Huntsville is complete without experiencing the Portage Flyer Christmas Train Ride at Muskoka Heritage Place on December 20th. "Super-magicated" is the word used to describe this beloved event, and once you experience it, you'll understand why.
The historic Portage Flyer locomotive and authentic coaches are adorned with a thousand twinkling lights, creating a sight that's nothing short of magical. Board the train at 5:00 PM (with trains running until 8:00 PM, last departure at 7:30 PM) and gently ride alongside the Muskoka River to The Purser's Cabin, where free hot chocolate and cookies await (while supplies last). Sing along to holiday tunes as you wait to board your return train, and most importantly, Santa is waiting to hear "your side of the story."
This family tradition offers an authentic piece of Muskoka heritage wrapped in holiday magic. Bundle up in proper clothing and footwear for the open-air coaches, bring your happy, excited kids, and prepare for an evening that captures the true spirit of the season. No advance tickets or reserved seating—simply purchase your tickets once inside and just prior to boarding, making it an easy, spontaneous addition to your holiday plans.
Beyond the Events: Outdoor Winter Adventures
While the events and performances are spectacular, Huntsville also offers magical outdoor experiences that showcase the natural beauty of Muskoka in winter.
This December, prepare your senses for the Forest of Light at Sandhill Nursery—a brand new, immersive experience unlike any other. Winding through the heart of Sandhill, this cerebral walk features light and shadow dancing in spectacular harmony, designed to touch your soul and ignite your imagination. It's where enchantment awaits and magic takes hold.
Art lovers shouldn't miss the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery tour, where you can discover the landscapes that inspired some of Canada's most iconic artists while enjoying the crisp winter air and stunning Muskoka scenery.
For unique animal adventures, visit the Back of Beyond Equine Centre for horse-drawn wagon rides through winter wonderland trails, or head to Muskoka Goat Away for delightful goat walks that are sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages. These experiences offer a perfect blend of nature, animals, and holiday magic.
Make It a Holiday Getaway
With so much magic packed into Huntsville's holiday season, experiencing everything in a single day visit simply isn't enough. To truly immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, savor the world-class entertainment, explore the charming markets, and embrace all the outdoor winter adventures, booking an overnight stay is essential. Wake up to snow-dusted pine trees, enjoy leisurely breakfasts before hitting the holiday markets, catch evening performances without worrying about the drive home, and experience the town's transformation from day to night as the holiday lights illuminate the streets. Huntsville offers a warm welcome and cozy accommodations that make your holiday getaway comfortable and memorable, allowing you to slow down, embrace the season, and create cherished memories with those you love.
This holiday season, let Huntsville's winter wonderland work its magic on you. From the grand kick-off weekend through December's spectacular events, every moment promises joy, wonder, and the true spirit of the holidays.