The month of December is one of my favourite months of the year. I’m not a fan of cold wintery days, but I do love the anticipation of Christmas, the extra time spent with family, and the special traditions that December holds.
Our family enjoys attending various Guelph events throughout the holiday season. Below are a list of some local family friendly events and attractions to visit this year.
Mini Makers Christmas Market
Saturday, Dec. 8 and Sunday, Dec. 9
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Olde Quebec Street Shoppes
I can’t wait to bring my kids to this wonderful Christmas market hosted by the Children’s Art Factory. Kids get to set up shop with their own handmade items and shoppers get to support young artists and makers.
Sparkles in the Park
Dec. 15 to 31
Open nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Riverside Park
One of our favourite rituals is to enjoy Sparkles in the Park at Riverside Park. The Rotary Club of Guelph puts on a fantastic and mesmerizing lights display that the whole family will love.
Joy in the City
Saturday, Dec. 15
6:30 to 9 p.m.
Guelph Little Theatre
We always try to attend at least one Christmas concert in December as a family, and there’s plenty to choose from in Guelph. The second annual Joy in the City offers a night of family worship that includes performances by David Wilkinson, Sarah McKnight-Richardson, Jeff Harden, Rufus John, Lindsey Minaker, Trevor Dick, Renee Rowe, and many more.
Family Holiday Skate
Sunday, Dec. 16
9 a.m.
Exhibition Arena
We aren’t the world’s strongest skaters, but Exhibition Arena’s free family skate is always a fun memory making experience. An event open to the public, timbits and hot chocolate will be served.
Merry Maker Night Market
Wednesday, Dec. 19
4 to 9 p.m.
Guelph Farmers’ Market
The Merry Maker Night Market is a perfect evening out with the family, or a fun adults-only time with friends or a partner. The Guelph Farmers’ Market puts on a fun market with over 80 vendors, with a variety of items to buy, from artisan products, produce, ready to eat food, wine and ciders, and live entertainment.
