A Guide to Canada’s Top Holiday Destinations

Cities and towns throughout Canada provide the perfect setting for an idyllic winter holiday retreat. Let’s look at some of the country’s top holiday destinations for your next festive escape. 

Quebec City is a stunningly beautiful place to visit year-round, but winter casts this historic city in an even more picturesque light. Centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and delicious restaurants contribute to its uniquely European ambiance. The city, famed as a holiday destination, adorns its buildings in colorful lights and hosts the German Christmas Market, scheduled for November 23rd to December 23rd, and the Christmas Parade on November 11th. 

Whistler, a mountain town in British Columbia, attracts crowds of skiers and snowboarders to its world-famous resorts. It is well worth a visit during the holiday season, when shimmering lights brilliantly decorate the town and famous holiday characters make appearances. From ice skating in the Village to the weekly Fire & Ice ski and snowboard stunt show, there’s plenty to experience at this resort all holiday long. 

Are you craving something unique for your holiday trip? Head to Churchill, Manitoba, which has the small-town atmosphere and remarkable scenery for a snowy holiday experience you’ll never forget. Known for its prolific polar bear population, the community offers safaris to see these creatures firsthand. Also, visitors can admire the Northern Lights throughout the holiday season.  

Alberta’s capital is a bustling and historic city known for its snowy winters and festive spirit. Edmonton goes all out during the holidays with seasonal celebrations, attracting visitors from far and wide. The city hosts numerous classic holiday traditions, including Glow, the largest indoor Christmas festival in the city, from December 1st to January 1st, and the Edmonton Christmas Market, scheduled for November 30th through December 17th at Fort Edmonton Park. Also, its public skating rinks, lovely parks, and nearby ski hills offer even more to enjoy. 

The nation’s capital, famous for its magnificent architecture, becomes even more beautiful when covered in a layer of snow. Ottawa fully embraces the holiday spirit and offers the perfect vibe for a festive getaway. There, you can ice skate along the frozen Rideau Canal, indulge in treats like frozen maple syrup or Beavertails, or visit the Ottawa Christmas Market, one of the best Christmas markets you’ll find in Canada, between November 24th and December 23rd. 

Prince Edward Island’s capital is a stunning little coastal community known for its picturesque historical architecture. Throughout the season, vibrant holiday lights adorn Victoria Row, Charlottetown’s stunning Victorian district, and the charming town bursts with seasonal excitement. The Charlottetown Christmas Festival, lasting from November 24th to January 2nd, includes can’t-miss experiences such as horse and wagon rides, children’s activities, and Yuletide Walking Tours. Also, visitors can enjoy snowy waterfront hikes or head to small local skiing attractions.