The holiday season comes alive in the County of Brant with celebrations that bring the community together. From festive lights and holiday markets, to cozy restaurants and heritage activities, there’s plenty to discover throughout November and December. Here are some seasonal highlights worth exploring this winter!
Sparkling Tree Lightings Throughout the County
Watch communities across the County of Brant sparkle with festive tree lighting celebrations throughout late November. Enjoy a Jingle Bell Night in Paris on the 21st full of caroling, live music, a charity toy drive, and a chance to win a $500 shopping spree. If you’ve not visited Paris this year during the Downtown Dig, come see how Ontario’s prettiest town is improving their infrastructure for the community and find out what’s changed!
St. George hosts its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on November 29, featuring live music, hot chocolate, visits with Santa, and a toy drive supporting local families. That same evening, Burford welcomes the season with its tree lighting complete with the town crier, choir performances, Christmas music, and extended shopping hours until 8:00 p.m. Bundle up and experience these beloved community traditions that officially kick off the holiday season.
Discover Holiday Magic in Downtown Brantford
Brantford brings festive energy to the season with its annual Santa Claus Parade and holiday light displays. The community typically gathers for the 49th annual Santa Claus Parade by the Freedom House in late November, featuring colourful floats, marching bands, and Santa himself making his way through downtown. Following the parade, visitors can enjoy the Parade After Party at Harmony Square with free activities, photos with Santa, and the official tree lighting ceremony.
For something more historical, step back in time at the Bell Homestead National Historic Site with A Bell Homestead Christmas Carol on December 6 and 7, Candlelight Christmas Celebration tours on December 13, and Mrs. Bell’s Little Christmas Party on December 14. Throughout the season and starting on the night of December 5th, Brantford Lights at Glenhyrst transforms the 16-acre art gallery grounds into a dazzling winter wonderland with thousands of lights illuminating the Grand River waterfront.
Evening Shopping in Downtown Paris
Experience the magic of an Evening in Downtown Paris every 3rd Friday of the month on November 21 and December 19. Participating stores extend their hours until 9:00 p.m., creating the perfect opportunity for evening holiday shopping in this charming riverside town. Enjoy complimentary gift wrapping at Wincey Mill this year, live music filling the streets, and the festive atmosphere that makes Paris pretty festive. The historic downtown offers unique boutiques, artisan shops, and specialty stores where you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local businesses.
Discover Craft Breweries and Coffee Roasters
Sample the County of Brant and Brantford’s thriving craft beverage scene throughout the holiday season. Steel Wheel Brewery in Brant offers farm-to-glass experiences with locally grown hops, while Flux Brewing Co. in Scotland combines their small-batch brews with seasonal menus from their Manna Kitchen. Howell Road Cider in St. George showcases award-winning hard ciders that are perfect for gatherings. Or visit the pride of Paris brewing at, aptly, the Paris Beer Company, that has been growing, brewing and serving the community for generations.
In Brantford, Sassy Britches Brewing Co. brings a fun, welcoming vibe to the Artisan Village with creative brews and fun workshops and events, while Altitude Coffee Roasters serves gourmet coffee with specially blended roasts at their cafe and also via their original coffee truck at various events including the Brantford Lights display. Definitely check out the amazing branded merch that’s available at each of these locations for high quality gift ideas for your favourite java head, chugger or sipper this festive season too!
Savour Downtown Paris Dining
Paris shines during the holiday season with exceptional dining experiences along the Grand River. Juniper Dining Co. offers modern fine dining inspired by French bistros from their new location across the Grand, while Stillwaters Plate and Pour features riverside views from their rooftop patio. For something away from the elements, Capeesh Kitchen & Cellar serves handmade pizzas and gourmet pasta, and The Library Bar at the Arlington has live music alongside their pours in cozy cellar settings. Or for something more laid-back, the Dog-Eared Café combines artisan coffee with a curated book collection with occasional poetry and open-mic nights. The Paris Wincey Mills houses multiple vendors including Detour Coffee and The Paris Beer Co.’s restaurant, creating a perfect stop for locally roasted beans, brews and delicious meals.
Gift Thoughtfully Local
Support local makers with gifts celebrating the region’s creative spirit. Downtown Paris boutiques like Thorn and Petal offer curated home décor and accessories, Paris Apothecary features handcrafted soaps and artisanal bath products. Chocolate Sensations in Paris and Le Chocolat du Savoie in Brantford both create pure, handmade, artisanal chocolates perfect for gifting, and Elberta Farms Country Market provides local preserves, apple cider, and seasonal treats.
Holly Jolly Holiday Fun
Discover how to have #GoodTimesinBrant or Discover Brantford by visiting their websites for itineraries, events and activities throughout the year.
Discover more ways to get into the holiday spirit with these day trip ideas to Oakville, our festive towns, Halton Hills, Hamilton and Burlington.
