December has arrived in Barrie, and with it comes that unmistakable holiday sparkle. The kind that makes the air feel lighter. The lights burn brighter. And your inner child suddenly wakes up craving hot chocolate, tree farms, and twinkling displays.

Across Barrie and the region, the holidays aren’t just celebrated, they’re felt. From snow-dusted tree hunts to late-night holiday markets, from candlelit heritage experiences to Santa sightings and glowing lakeshore walks, this is the season where the whole area transforms into a winter wonderland.

So grab your coziest mittens, take a deep breath of that crisp December air, and let’s dive into all the ways you can make the holidays unforgettable in Barrie this year.

Tree Hunts & Timeless Traditions
Before the lights, before the gifts, before the stockings, there’s the tree. Whether you love a perfectly shaped spruce or you’re on a quest for a bold Griswold classic that pushes the limits of your ceiling height, Barrie has the spots to find “the one.”

Drysdale’s Christmas & Holiday Village
Drysdale's Tree Farm - 6635 Simcoe County Road 56, Egbert
Date: Nov 15 – Dec 21 (Sat & Sun)

At Drysdale’s, the holidays feel like stepping into a storybook. As you wander the farm, the scent of fresh-cut evergreens mixes with the jingling of horse-drawn wagons and laughter floating through the icy air. Santa pops by for visits, the bonfires crackle, and the entire place glows with a kind of nostalgia you can’t plan—you just feel it. Whether you’re trimming your tree the old-fashioned way or letting the kids explore the holiday village, it’s pure magic from start to finish.

Photo: Friday Harbour Resort - Christmas Market

 

Holiday Markets With Heart (and Hot Chocolate)
From lakeside promenades to heritage halls, holiday markets in Barrie are all about warmth, creativity, and community. These aren’t just shopping trips—they’re cozy experiences filled with stories, treats, and handmade treasures.

Holiday Market 
Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery - 4346 Hwy 90, Springwater
Date: Nov 8 – Dec 7 (Sat & Sun)

Think twinkling lights, Instagram-worthy décor, and aisles of festive inspiration. Bradford Greenhouses transforms into a holiday haven, offering everything from artisan gifts to ornaments to winter greenery. It’s the perfect place to grab something thoughtful and soak up some serious cozy vibes.

The Holiday Market 
Friday Harbour - 3999 Friday Drive, Innisfil
Date: Nov 21 – Dec 28 (Select Days)

Take a chilly—but charming—stroll along the waterfront Promenade as chalet-style cabins offer warm drinks, gourmet treats, and handmade goods. With holiday music playing between the buildings and the lake shimmering beside you, this market feels like a postcard brought to life.

Spice Holiday Market
General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre - 205 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie
Date: Dec 5–6
This lively market brings together over 40 artisans, live music, Santa appearances, and surprise swag bags. It’s high-energy, creative, and full of the kind of finds you won’t see anywhere else.

Victorian Christmas Cookstown Antique Market
Cookstown Antique Market - 5108 Simcoe County Road 27, Cookstown
Date: Dec 5–7

Step back in time at this charming, nostalgic holiday experience. Each vendor booth is decorated like a scene from Christmas past—warm, cozy, and brimming with vintage treasures and unique gift ideas. It’s the perfect mix of historic charm and holiday cheer.

Punk Rock Holiday Market
Brūd Bar + Bottle Shop - 19 Clapperton Street, Barrie
Date: Dec 7 | 4:00pm –10:00pm

Who says holiday markets can’t have a sense of style? With live music, local makers, small-batch craft beer, and festive costumes encouraged, this one-night-only event is loud, lively, and totally unforgettable. Expect unique gifts, killer vibes, and maybe even some punk-ified holiday carolling.

Photo: Nat Caron Photography

 

Holiday Lights That Spark Wonder
The sun may set early in December, but that just means more time to enjoy the glow. Barrie and the region boast some of the most enchanting light displays in Ontario.

Magic of Lights
Springwater Park - 1331 Hwy 26, Midhurst
Date: Nov 21 – Jan 3

Pile into the car, crank the holiday playlist, and cruise through miles of dazzling displays. From tunnels of sparkling bulbs to animated scenes glowing in every colour, Magic of Lights is a drive-through extravaganza designed to make everyone, kids AND grown-ups, say “wow” at least three times. It’s bright, whimsical, and perfect for a chilly winter night.

Festival of Trees 
Centennial Park, Lakeshore Drive, Barrie
Date: Nov 15 – Jan 2026

As you drive or stroll along Barrie’s iconic waterfront, the Festival of Trees brings the shoreline to life with beautifully illuminated displays created by the Rotary Club of Barrie. Each tree twinkles with its own personality, filling Lakeshore Drive with colour and festive warmth. Whether you're walking your dog, sipping a hot drink by the water, or taking the scenic route home, the glowing trail casts a magical shimmer across the snow, simple, beautiful, and full of hometown charm. And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to wander into Downtown Barrie to see Barrie’s stunning holiday tree standing tall in Meridian Place. It’s the perfect finale to your festive waterfront stroll.

First Light 
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons - 16164 Highway 12 East, Midland
Date: Nov 27 – Dec 14 (Thurs–Sun)

First Light is one of the most breathtaking holiday experiences in Central Ontario. Thousands of candles guide you through the historic mission, filling the night with soft golden light. Enjoy Indigenous drumming, live music, artisanal vendors, storytelling, and warm food by the crackling fires. Celebrating 25 years, this event is pure enchantment, an absolute must-do.

Enchanted Holiday Forest of Lights
Drysdale’s Tree Farm - Nov 28-29, Dec 5-6 & Dec12-13 | 6:00pm – 10:00pm

When night falls, Drysdale’s transforms into a glowing forest straight from a fairytale. Wander the trails illuminated by shimmering lights, magical displays, and nighttime holiday ambiance. Only open for 3 weekends, it’s a rare and mesmerizing holiday treat.

Meet Santa & Share Your Wish List
Whether you’re five or fifty-five, nothing says “Christmas is here” like a visit with Santa. Around Barrie, you’ll find the jolly guy in several fun, festive settings.

Santa Photos at Tanger Outlets Cookstown
Date: Nov 14 – Dec 24

Walk through a sparkling holiday setup and capture the perfect moment with Santa. Ideal for annual traditions and family photos you’ll treasure.

Visit with Santa – The 400 Market
Date: Starting Nov 29 (Sat & Sun)

The magic is extra sweet here, with FREE photos and FREE magic reindeer food. Kids love it—and honestly, so do adults.

Santa at Georgian Mall
Date: Nov 21 – Dec 24

From pet photos to PJ-themed shoots to baby’s first Christmas, Georgian Mall offers a full Santa lineup perfect for every family. Early booking recommended!

Barrie at its Brightest
December in Barrie isn’t just busy, it’s beautiful. With glowing light displays, artisan markets, lakeside strolls, Santa visits, and beloved traditions passed down through generations, the region becomes a festive playground filled with joy and community.

Happy Holidays from Barrie and the region!