The holiday season is one of the best times of the year in Durham Region, with local communities hosting Christmas markets, craft fairs, winter festivals, and family events throughout November and December. Whether you are looking for handmade gifts, festive food, live entertainment or just a way to enjoy the magic of the season, there are plenty of events happening in Oshawa, Whitby, Courtice, Bowmanville, Ajax, Pickering, Port Perry, and Uxbridge.

This guide highlights the top holiday markets and Christmas events in Durham Region for 2025.

Holiday Markets and Events:

Abilities Centre Holiday Market – Whitby

Date: Saturday, November 1
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Location: Abilities Centre, 1 Jim Flaherty Street, Whitby
A fully accessible holiday…

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Fall in Durham Region means colourful leaves, crisp air, and pumpkin patches — but it also means spooky season. If you’re looking for something a little different than apple picking and hayrides, why not explore some of the region’s most haunted spots? From eerie old courthouses to ghostly pubs, Durham has plenty of places that will give you goosebumps.

Whitby Centennial Building (Courthouse Theatre), Whitby

Built in 1853 as a courthouse and jail, the Centennial Building is now home to the Whitby Courthouse Theatre. Over the years, visitors and staff have reported shadowy figures, flickering lights, and footsteps echoing through empty halls. Whether you’re attending a play or just walking by on Centre Street, this historic site has a reputation…

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The crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy sweaters can only mean one thing: fall has arrived in Durham Region. And with it comes some of the best festivals, pumpkin patches, and farm markets Ontario has to offer. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin, getting lost in a corn maze, or enjoying local food and harvest celebrations, there are plenty of places to explore this season.

Fall Festivals

Applefest – Downtown Bowmanville
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, Historic Downtown Bowmanville transforms into Applefest, a celebration of all things apple. Expect fresh cider, pies, crisps, candy apples, cider donuts, and the famous hot apple fritters. With artisan vendors, live entertainment, and family activities, it’s a true small-town…

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If you’re looking for the best places to go apple picking in Ontario, Durham Region should be at the top of your list. With family-friendly orchards, scenic farmland, and plenty of fall activities, Durham offers a true taste of autumn just east of Toronto. From wagon rides and pumpkin patches to fresh-pressed cider, here’s your guide to apple picking in Durham Region this fall.

Top Orchards for Apple Picking in Durham Region

Maple Grove Farm – Bowmanville
Maple Grove Farm is a local favourite for apple picking in Bowmanville. This family-run farm offers a wide variety of apples and expands into pumpkins as the season continues. Visitors enjoy the authentic country atmosphere and the chance to experience a traditional farm outing.

Watson Farms…

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August is here, and there’s no better time to enjoy everything summer has to offer. Whether you're planning a family outing, a relaxing solo day, or a spontaneous weekend adventure, Durham Region is home to some of the best beaches and parks—plus, a few hidden gems just under an hour away.

Here’s your guide to the top spots to unwind and soak up the season:

Lakeview Park Beach (Oshawa)

One of Durham’s most popular beach destinations, Lakeview Park Beach is perfect for families. This beautiful waterfront spot features a splash pad, shaded picnic areas, a playground, and a long boardwalk ideal for walks along the lake. The beach is supervised by lifeguards daily from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and there’s even a lifejacket loaner station for extra…

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Your 2025 Guide to Farmers’ Markets in Durham Region
Support Local | Eat Fresh | Explore More

There’s something special about strolling through a farmers’ market—the scent of fresh produce, the buzz of community, and the satisfaction of supporting local growers and artisans. If you live in or around Durham Region, you’re in luck. The 2025 farmers’ market season is officially underway, and there’s no shortage of incredible markets to explore!

Whether you're hunting for just-picked strawberries, handcrafted bread, or local honey, here’s your go-to guide to farmers’ markets in Durham:

Pickering

  • Pickering City Centre Farmers’ Market
    Tuesdays, June 10 – October 7 | 9 AM – 2 PM
    Located at the Chestnut Hill Developments Rec Complex.
    More…

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Make the Most of March Break in Durham Region!

March Break in Durham Region is packed with family-friendly activities, thrilling adventures, and seasonal treats. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, sweet maple syrup experiences, or high-energy indoor fun, there's something for everyone. Plan your ultimate March Break itinerary with these top activities in Durham Region!

Maple Syrup Festivals

March is maple syrup season in Durham Region, and these festivals are perfect for indulging in fresh maple syrup, maple taffy, and delicious pancakes.

Pefferlaw Creek Farms Maple Syrup Festival

Address: 12300 Concession Road 6, Uxbridge
When: Saturdays & Sundays from March 8 to April 19
Enjoy a guided tapping tour, a sugar shack visit,…

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Family Day is the perfect time to celebrate togetherness, and Durham Region is offering a variety of fun, family-friendly events—many of them free! From outdoor adventures to interactive exhibits and even puppy yoga, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your ultimate guide to Family Day events happening across Durham Region and beyond.

Winterfest - Ajax

Where: McLean Community Centre, 95 Magill Dr, Ajax
When: Monday, February 17, 2025 | 11 AM - 4 PM
Link to event: Click Here for More info

What’s happening?

  • Arts and crafts

  • Ajax Library Makerspace

  • Games and activities

  • Horse and wagon rides

  • FREE hot chocolate & s’mores giveaway

  • FREE public swims (11 AM - 1 PM & 2 - 4 PM)

  • …

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Discover the joy of the holiday season in Durham Region! From vibrant Christmas markets to unique holiday events, these gatherings offer something special for everyone. Here’s your guide to the top Christmas markets in Durham Region for 2024.

November Christmas Markets

1. Uxbridge Farmers’ Christmas Market

  • Dates: Sundays, November 3 to December 8, 2024
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Location: Uxbridge Arena Hall, 291 Brock Street West, Uxbridge
  • Highlights: Find unique gifts from local artisans, including candles, soaps, teas, honey, and jewelry. This market is free to enter and perfect for early holiday shopping.

2. Bright & Merry Market in Oshawa

  • Date: Friday, November 15, 2024
  • Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Location: From City…

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Discover the Best Santa Claus Parades in Durham Region

The holiday season is right around the corner, and there’s no better way to kick it off than with a Santa Claus parade! Durham Region has an exciting lineup of festive parades that are perfect for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts. These parades will bring communities together with floats, music, lights, and, of course, Santa himself! Mark your calendars and plan to join in on the holiday cheer with these upcoming Santa Claus parades in Bowmanville, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby, Courtice, and Scugog.

1. Bowmanville Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
  • Time: 10:30 a.m.
  • Location:  King Street, Bowmanville, ON

Bowmanville’s Santa Claus Parade kicks off…

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