Holiday Markets In The Region
If you're living in Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge or the surrounding communities, there are plenty of festive events to explore this November and December. Whether you're looking for unique Christmas gifts, locally made products, delicious holiday treats or a fun family outing, the region has something for everyone.
We've rounded up some of the best holiday markets and Christmas shopping experiences happening around Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge in 2026.
1. Cambridge Holiday Market – November 27–29, 2026
One of the most anticipated holiday shopping events in the region, the Cambridge Holiday Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to support local businesses and discover unique gifts.
Located at Cambridge City Hall and the Cambridge Centre for the Arts in downtown Galt, this award-winning market brings together more than 100 local artisans, crafters and makers.
Visitors can browse handmade jewellery, home décor, candles, specialty foods, clothing, artwork and plenty of other one-of-a-kind finds.
The market also features:
- Free live entertainment
- Outdoor food vendors
- A festive holiday café
- Santa's Workshop and photo opportunities
- A fire pit lounge
When: November 27–29, 2026
Where: Cambridge City Hall, 50 Dickson Street, and Cambridge Centre for the Arts, 60 Dickson Street
Admission: Free
It's a great opportunity to enjoy downtown Cambridge while getting a head start on your Christmas shopping.
2. Kitchener Christkindl Market – December 3-13, 2026
If you're looking for a traditional European Christmas market experience, Kitchener's famous Christkindl Market should be at the top of your holiday bucket list.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, this beloved annual event is expanding to two weekends of festive celebrations in downtown Kitchener.
Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, Christkindl transforms the area around Kitchener City Hall into a festive winter village filled with handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, delicious food and holiday entertainment.
Expect to find:
- Handmade gifts and artisan products
- Traditional German-inspired food
- Warm pretzels and festive treats
- Glühwein and seasonal beverages
- Live music and entertainment
- Blacksmith demonstrations and holiday characters
The atmosphere is one of the biggest reasons people return year after year. Bundle up, stroll through the market, grab something delicious to eat and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
When: December 3–6 and December 10–13, 2026
Where: Kitchener City Hall, 200 King Street West, Kitchener
Admission: Free
With 30 years of tradition behind it, this is one holiday event you won't want to miss.
3. St. Jacobs Sparkles – November 12-15 and 19-22, 2026
Just a short drive from Waterloo, St. Jacobs Village is one of the most charming places to experience the holiday season.
During the annual Sparkles event, the village comes alive with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, festive decorations and holiday entertainment.
Local shops extend their shopping hours, making it the perfect opportunity to browse unique boutiques and find special gifts you won't see in the big-box stores.
Visitors can also enjoy:
- Festive holiday decorations and light displays
- Victorian-style carollers
- Live local music
- Extended shopping hours
- Seasonal entertainment
- A visit from Santa
St. Jacobs is particularly appealing if you enjoy a small-town Christmas atmosphere. Make an evening of it by exploring the village, shopping local and enjoying the beautiful holiday displays.
When: November 12–15 and November 19–22, 2026
Where: St. Jacobs Village
Admission: Free
5. Kitchener-Waterloo Christmas Market – November 22, 2026
Another holiday shopping event to add to your calendar is the Kitchener-Waterloo Christmas Market at the DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener.
This indoor Christmas market brings together local artisans, bakers, small businesses and independent vendors for a day of holiday shopping.
Visitors can expect a selection of handmade crafts, jewellery, Christmas decorations, candles, specialty foods, baked goods and unique gift ideas.
Because the event takes place indoors, it's also a great option when the November weather isn't cooperating.
When: Sunday, November 22, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener, 30 Fairway Road South, Kitchener
Admission: Free
It's another great way to discover local makers and support small businesses in the community.
6. Make It a Holiday Weekend in Waterloo Region
Why stop at one market? With so many festive activities happening throughout November and December, it's easy to turn your holiday shopping into a full weekend adventure.
Here are a few other seasonal attractions worth checking out:
Wonders of Winter – Waterloo Park
Running from November 28, 2026, to January 2, 2027, Wonders of Winter is a free holiday light display featuring more than 200 displays and 100,000 lights. It's a wonderful evening activity for families, couples and anyone who enjoys a festive winter walk.
Gift of Lights – Bingemans, Kitchener
From November 20, 2026, to January 2, 2027, enjoy a spectacular drive-through Christmas light experience. It's a great way to take in the holiday decorations without having to brave the cold for too long.
Waterloo Central Railway Holiday Trains
From November 13 to December 20, 2026, enjoy a festive heritage railway experience. Choose from themed holiday train rides, including daytime and evening experiences, with plenty of Christmas spirit along the way.
Elora Christmas Market
If you're willing to venture a little farther outside Waterloo Region, Elora is another beautiful destination for holiday shopping. Its European-inspired Christmas market features festive lighting, vendor chalets, entertainment and seasonal food and drinks.
Celebrate the Holidays Close to Home
The holiday season is a wonderful time to explore everything our local communities have to offer. From the European-inspired atmosphere of Kitchener's Christkindl Market to the artisan vendors at Cambridge's Holiday Market and the charming Christmas lights of St. Jacobs, there are so many ways to celebrate close to home.
Whether you're shopping for the perfect gift, enjoying a festive outing with family or simply looking for an excuse to get out and enjoy the season, Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge have plenty of holiday magic waiting for you.
This Christmas, skip the big-box shopping experience for a little while, support local makers and discover the festive traditions that make Waterloo Region such a wonderful place to call home.
Happy holiday shopping, Waterloo Region!