Kawarthas Northumberland’s artists, merchants, and makers really come together in the holiday season. The month of December offers a cornucopia of special occasions. Entertain the kids, find unique gifts, or simply take in the festive atmosphere of a snow-covered small town at one of the events listed below.
Christmas at Ken Reid
Half the feeling of the holidays comes from the time of year — the air is crisp, the cedars stand out against a December sky, and snow on the ground is still a novelty. Christmas at Ken Reid takes full advantage of the seasonal vibes with an all-day outdoor celebration. On December 7 The Ken Reid Conservation Area outside Lindsay will supplement its usual selection of hiking and skiing trails with activities like horse-drawn wagon rides and kid-friendly crafts such as birdseed ornament making. Entertainment includes indigenous storytelling, presentations by Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue, and live music. Rumour has it Santa Claus will make an appearance. Get more details at the Facebook event page.
4th Line Theatre’s The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper
4th Line Theatre has built its reputation on high-quality, original Canadian theatre. Situated on Winslow Farm outside Millbrook, their innovative site-specific approach has led the Toronto Star to write “4th Line Theatre epitomizes summer theatre in Ontario.” Their Christmas offering is The Fool of Cavan: A Christmas Caper. The play is described as a “Nancy Drew-style mystery” set in the 1960s. Audience members will follow the cast through the picturesque streets of Millbrook as they attempt to crack the case. On select dates the show will be followed by a concert. The show runs December 3-14 and typically sells out fast. Book tickets here.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum Presents Christmas by Candlelight
We’ve written about Lang Pioneer Village before, and for good reason — it’s a uniquely charming and immersive destination in the heart of Kawarthas Northumberland. On December 7 and 8, this living museum will open its doors so guests can experience Christmas 19th-century pioneer style. Wagon rides, carolling, crafts, and a gift market are on the menu, as well as the chance to meet Santa Father Christmas.
Lindsay Farmer’s Market Christmas Market
A Kawartha Lakes tradition now in its 27th year, the Lindsay Farmer’s Market Christmas Market runs December 14 and 21 from 9-3. An array of vendors will bring you artisanal products like handmade soap, wood carvings, knitted crafts, and other unique stocking stuffers, not to mention good eats. An excellent chance to shop local and maybe snag a last-minute gift.
Victoria Hall
Victoria Hall has rightly been described as Cobourg’s centrepiece. This stately example of 1850s architecture impresses inside and out with its porticoed entrance and grand concert hall. The hall is the perfect venue for a range of holiday-themed concerts and shows. A theatrical adaptation of A Christmas Carol, the Sultans of String Christmas Caravan, and Christmas with John McDermott are highlights of the 2019 season — check out the complete list here: https://experiencecobourg.ca/concert-hall-victoria-hall/
Warkworth Magic Under the Stars
The village of Warkworth has its share of magic year round, but they make it official on Fridays in December with the Magic Under the Stars event. Downtown stores stay open, pop-up shops abound, and festive mainstays like wagon rides, Christmas choirs, hot chocolate and mulled wine are all on offer. The annual Makers Market promises plenty of local selections for holiday shoppers as well.
Nothing quite catching your eye yet? There are more options to discover. Catch a country Santa Claus parade in Kawartha Lakes, visit an old-fashioned tree farm in Northumberland County, or check Peterborough and the Kawarthas’ event listings for tips on unique markets.
