HOLIDAY GUIDE
Your Canadian Holiday Season, Curated by Pilgrim
Looking for the best holiday experiences in Canada? From magical markets to snowy escapes, this guide brings together our favourite cafés, restaurants, winter activities, and festive getaways across Montréal, Québec City, Ontario, and Western Canada. Think cozy moments and a touch of sparkle — the Pilgrim way.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Ready to wander Canada’s coziest christmas markets? Start in Montréal’s Quartier des Spectacles at Le Grand Marché de Noël, where lights, local makers, and festive music turn the city into a glowing holiday village. In Québec City, wander the snow-covered streets of Petit-Champlain for a European-style market called Le Marché de Noël allemand filled with charm and handmade treasures (our personal favorite).
Heading to Ontario? The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto is a must for holiday lights, artisanal stalls, and mulled drinks. For something quieter, Elora Christmas Market offers a small-town Christmas experience with indie artisans and postcard-perfect streets. Out West, Martini Town Merry & Bright in Langley, BC transforms a movie set into a magical holiday town made for wandering (and photos of course).
ICE SKATING
Want the best ice skating spots in Canada? Glide along Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, a classic winter experience with tranquil views and endless ice. In Toronto, Nathan Phillips Square brings downtown energy with city lights and a festive atmosphere.
For something more scenic, the icy trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park winds through winter forests, an unforgettable escape. In Montréal’s Quartier des Spectacles, the Esplanade Tranquille rink offers a modern, design-forward skating experience in the heart of the city.
EVENTS
If you're looking for holiday shows in Canada, you can’t go wrong with The Nutcracker Ballet in Toronto or Montréal, a timeless December tradition. For something more intimate, the Candlelight Concert Series at Toronto’s Royal Theatre or in Montréal sets classical music against a sea of glowing candles.
Planning ahead for January? Igloofest brings electronic music, neon snowsuits, and freezing-cold fun to Montréal, Gatineau, Edmonton (such a fun new location), and Québec City starting January 15 in Montreal. Winter nights just got a lot louder.
RESTAURANTS
Craving festive dining? Treat yourself to Afternoon Tea at The Ritz in Montréal or the Fairmont in Toronto, elegant, cozy, and perfect for the season. In Montréal, Au Coin Fairmount is the new kid on the block—warm, simple, and already getting whispered about. Consider this your head start.
If you’re visiting Québec City, stop by Apotek Bakery (very on-brand for our Danish roots) before wandering the snowy Old Town. For a cozy dinner, Bar Mamie serves fondue-style meals that feel made for winter nights.
APRÈS-SKI
Looking for the best holiday bars? Miracle in Toronto and Montréal brings playful, over-the-top Christmas energy to every cocktail. For a more refined winter moment, Montréal’s Chalet des Fêtes on Terrasse Belvu offers cozy après-ski vibes with skyline views.
If you're in Whistler, the Longhorn Saloon is the place for lively après-ski moments — music loud, snow still on your boots.
GETAWAYS
Dreaming of a holiday escape in Canada? Check into Pinot Hotel Boutique for a design-focused retreat, or head to Mont-Tremblant Village for skiing, spas, and charming alpine streets. In British Columbia, Harrison Hot Springs offers restorative thermal pools surrounded by mountain landscapes.
For a wellness-focused trip, settle into Nordik Spa in Chelsea, the largest outdoor spa in North America and a peaceful pocket of Scandinavian serenity. Prefer historic charm? Manoir Hovey in North Hatley is secluded, elegant, and perfect for slow winter weekends.
PLAYING OUTSIDE
Looking for winter activities? Explore snowy trails at Grouse Mountain in BC — the perfect winter hike with coastal views. In Québec, hit the slopes at Le Massif de Charlevoix, known for sea-to-summit scenery and endless powder.
For something playful, race down the ice slides on Terrasse Dufferin in Québec City or spend a full winter day at Village Vacances Valcartier, home to tubing hills, ice castles, and snow-filled fun.
Wherever you go this season, take your time, embrace the cold, and make space for small, meaningful moments. And when you head out into the holiday glow, bring a piece that feels like you — something timeless, simple, and beautifully made. (We suggest Pilgrim.)