Celebrating 25 Years of Holiday Magic

Now in its 25th year, Sainte-Marie’s First Light is an award-winning, must-see holiday event with a great lineup of family activities and live musical performances, all amidst the spectacular glow of thousands of candles.  

This year, you’re visiting two candlelit attractions for the price of one: Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine!

Start your holiday shopping at our extensive artisan market. Enjoy activities for kids at both Sainte-Marie and the Martyrs’ Shrine. See historical demonstrations including blacksmithing. Take part in Sunday night mass. Enjoy a delicious holiday meal, and much more!

There’s a reason this event is an annual tradition for many. Come and experience a little holiday magic! 

Whether you're shopping for loved ones, enjoying festive treats, or simply soaking in the joyful atmosphere, the Caledonia Christmas Market is the perfect place to celebrate the magic of the season with family and friends. Don't miss out on this enchanting event!

An original musical pantomime retelling of a classic tale…In the grand British tradition where audiences cheer the hero and boo the villain, Hook shifts the focus of the timeless classic Peter Pan to focus on our anti-hero, the one and only, Captain Hook! This production will feature flashy musical numbers, outrageous costumes, comedy, magic, mayhem, and of course…you’re part of the show! Come and boo the villain (which is who, exactly?) and cheer the hero, and have a blast of a holiday time with the whole family! We promise you’ll be hooked! Recommended for ALL AGES!

 

Show Date: December 3rd - 6th, 2025 (multiple shows - check website for dates and times)

Come experience the magic as the streets of Kitchener transform into a traditional festival of holiday spirit!

Join us on December 6 and celebrate the season as a cavalcade of lights, floats, bands and more will make its way down our Historic Downtown Main Street. The parade starts at 6 PM at Ninth Line and heads east on Main Street all the way to Park Drive. 

Don't miss out on this enchanting opportunity to kick off the holiday season in style while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Reserve your tickets now and let the magic of Breakfast with Santa fill your heart!

An original musical pantomime retelling of a classic tale…In the grand British tradition where audiences cheer the hero and boo the villain, Hook shifts the focus of the timeless classic Peter Pan to focus on our anti-hero, the one and only, Captain Hook! This production will feature flashy musical numbers, outrageous costumes, comedy, magic, mayhem, and of course…you’re part of the show! Come and boo the villain (which is who, exactly?) and cheer the hero, and have a blast of a holiday time with the whole family! We promise you’ll be hooked! Recommended for ALL AGES!

 

Show Date: December 10th - 20th, 2025 (multiple shows - check website for dates and times)

Join us for a delightful holiday experience at the Annual Santa's Village & Market, a family-friendly event open to all ages. Immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of Christmas in the beautiful downtown of Essex Centre, in the middle of Essex County. Join us for a delightful holiday experience at the Annual Santa's Village & Market, a family-friendly event open to all ages. Immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of Christmas in the beautiful downtown of Essex Centre, in the middle of Essex County. This enchanting one-day event brings Christmas magic alive for everyone! Come and join in the festivities as you decorate scrumptious cookies and create magical reindeer food. Delight in the melodious tunes of live music while exploring a variety of food vendors offering freshly made donuts, cotton candy, and more. Discover a wide array of crafts and merchandise vendors, offering unique treasures for all. Don't forget to pay a visit to Santa's Workshop for a cherished photo opportunity and a special gift. And as the day unfolds, prepare to be amazed by our spectacular Santa Claus Parade, commencing at 6:30 PM! After the parade, come back into the village as the fun continues providing joy for all including grabbing that special Christmas gift before you head home! This is an event you wouldn't want to miss, a must-visit for families to kick off the Christmas holiday season with joy and wonder. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the event date. Mark your calendars for the second Saturday of December each year in the picturesque downtown of Essex. You can find us conveniently located at the corner of Talbot and Victoria in the Heritage Gardens area, next to the Essex Historic Train Station!

Join us as we ring in the new year with a 'Night of Legends'!

Enjoy a tribute to some of the most iconic artists as we have live musical entertainment on the main stage right in front of City hall, while sipping on free hot chocolate, going skating & celebrating the start of 2026!

Tribute band information and more information to be announced soon!

Port Stanley Festival Theatre is a developer of professional, live, diverse Canadian theatre. We enhance the community experience.

The Beaches International Jazz Festival, now in its 38th year, is a month-long July event in Toronto’s Beaches community that draws nearly a million attendees with free concerts, StreetFest along Queen Street East, and performances across multiple parks and stages. Featuring over 1,000 artists each year—including international headliners, emerging talent, and local musicians—the festival also offers workshops and lectures to engage both jazz professionals and the wider public.