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6 activities to do in Canada at Christmas and New Year
The end-of-year holidays in Canada are often memorable. Many events are organized to make you forget the cold and to ensure that the holidays take place in a good mood. Enjoy the snow and nature or walk through cities decorated for the occasion: there are several ways to spend quality time at Christmas or New Year in Canada.
1 - Enjoy the snow and the cold
Winter means snow in Canada. If you're heading there for the holidays, take advantage of the abundant snow cover to indulge in your favourite winter sports. Skiing and snowboarding are a must and you can do them at one of Canada's many ski resorts. Examples include the legendary Whistler Blackcomb near Vancouver, Le Massif in Charlevoix, Blue Mountain in Ontario or Mont-Tremblant in Quebec.
Snowshoeing or dog sledding are other unusual activities to try in Canada in winter, especially in the Laurentians. For a fun family outing, try ice skating at a city rink or on frozen waterways and bodies of water, such as in Ottawa on the Rideau Canal.
You can also simply opt for renting a chalet in Charlevoix for example. These beautiful houses in the heart of nature in a calm and soothing atmosphere will be perfect if you want to spend the holidays quietly with your family. Shopping can be done easily in the nearby towns.
2 - Fill up on lights in Ottawa
Canadians announce the arrival of the end-of-year celebrations as early as November 1st. To this end, the fronts of houses and buildings are decorated and numerous Christmas markets are organized in almost all cities. cities of canada.
The Ottawa Christmas Market takes place from November to December in Aberdeen Square. You can enjoy live music, sample local and international cuisine and attend unusual events.
Don't miss a visit to Byward Market which will be all lit up for the occasion. Kids will especially enjoy taking a little horse-drawn wagon ride through the market.
During the Christmas Lights, the city sparkles and Upper Canada Village is a thing of beauty. Historic buildings, trees and gardens are decorated. This is also where the Alight at Night festival takes place. It will take you back in time with horse-drawn carriages, visits from St. Nicholas and delicious Christmas treats. Screenings are also scheduled on Parliament Hill, for a beautiful nighttime spectacle.
3 - Admire the Northern Lights away from the world
The end of the year is one of the best times to admire the Northern Lights, thanks to the absence of clouds and the long nights. Ideally, you should head north to give yourself the best chance of seeing them and, above all, not be in too much of a hurry.
They are often seen in the Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Nunavut. You can also get to the city of Kuujjuaq in Quebec, thanks to its airport. It is just over a two-hour flight from Montreal, making it ideal for a weekend.
To maximize your chances, consider consulting the forecast calendar and the interactive map of the most suitable places to observe the northern lights.
4 - Spend unforgettable holidays in Vancouver
If you are lucky enough to be in Vancouver during the holidays, don't miss its Christmas market from November to December. Inspired by Germany, it is the perfect place to taste delicious specialties. Admire its imposing Christmas tree and attend different musical performances. Many activities for all ages are offered during this event.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is also decorated from start to finish for the occasion and offers a magical view. Continue with the VanDusen Festival of Lights, in the botanical garden. More than a million lights illuminate the garden with different themes from one area to another. You can nibble on specialties while enjoying the music. Finally, don't miss the PNE Winter Fair and its various events during your visit to Vancouver.
5 - Celebrate the holidays in Montreal
And why not choose to stay in Montreal for the end-of-year holidays? The most cosmopolitan of French-speaking cities Canada offers many events and activities during this period.
The Santa Claus parade is a must-see event if you come to Canada with your family. It is a charming spectacle with its decorated floats. The Christmas Village and its Christmas market are also set up at Place des Arts starting in November. Another market of this type is also organized in Jean-Talon.
The city center is decorated and sparkles with a thousand lights. There are huge installations, all kinds of entertainment and also delicious things to nibble on while walking around. Strolling around the Place des Festivals also allows you to try out various interactive activities.
Old Montreal - a must-see in any season - is also decorated for the end-of-year holidays. The Notre-Dame Basilica is bathed in light and you can watch a show inside. The Grande Roue de Montréal is very popular with tourists towards the end of December. It offers a 360° view of the city and its millions of lights. Don't miss out on trying one of the city's skating rinks to complete your Canadian experience.
Complexe Desjardins is another popular destination in the city, as is Mont Royal Avenue.
6 - Make your stay in Niagara Falls
This city made famous by its famous waterfalls is also very beautiful during the end-of-year holidays. The Winter Festival of Lights takes place there from November, and has been for over 40 years. This is the occasion for the city to dress itself in its most beautiful lights. The road leading to the falls then offers a particularly striking spectacle, being lit up in its entirety.
The city also organizes its Christmas market from November. There you will find local producers, artisans and artists in a joyful atmosphere. Also not to be missed is the Christmas Parade, an event that will particularly please children!
To prepare for the holidays, stock up on Canadian products in our online store. Food, drinks or even cosmetics: you will find many gift ideas for Christmas.
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