Your Weekend Festival & Event Guide: What's Happening in Halton Region
Christmas is less than a week away, so get into the holiday spirit with a festive lineup of seasonal events and activities across Halton Region, including Milton, Burlington, and Halton Hills. From magical light displays and family-friendly markets to cherished visits with Santa and cozy holiday experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, looking for memorable photo opportunities, or simply seeking a joyful way to celebrate the season, these local events offer the perfect mix of community cheer and holiday magic.
Book Your Santa Visit At Milton Mall
Be sure to visit Santa at Milton Mall this holiday season until December 24th, where families can enjoy classic holiday photos and create cherished memories in a warm and welcoming setting. Through the “Where Is Santa” booking platform, visitors can easily reserve a time to meet Santa, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience with minimal waiting. The photo area is decorated in a cheerful, holiday-themed setting perfect for kids of all ages — and ideal for capturing keepsake moments to share with family and friends. Whether you’re stopping by during a weekend shopping trip or planning a dedicated visit, Milton Mall provides a convenient and family-friendly backdrop for your annual Santa tradition. With professional photo options, friendly staff, and that unmistakable holiday magic, this seasonal experience adds a joyful touch to every visit.
Santa Makes His Festive Return to the Milton Fairgrounds
Santa returns to the Milton Fairgrounds for the beloved Santa at the Fairgrounds event, where families can meet Santa Morgan, snap a photo, and browse offerings from local vendors. This year, the event takes place on December 20th and 21st from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering a festive opportunity to celebrate the season together. Admission is free, and photos with Santa are available for a modest $15 fee, with digital copies emailed after the event. Visitors can warm up by the outdoor fire pits, roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and enjoy cozy seasonal drinks while exploring the holiday market. Located at 136 Robert Street, the event welcomes all ages. A community donation drive is also part of the festivities, making this cheerful gathering both festive and meaningful.
Explore the Burlington Festival of Lights at Spencer Smith Park
The Burlington Festival of Lights is a beloved annual holiday tradition that transforms Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park waterfront into a sparkling winter wonderland, with more than 60 illuminated displays that light up the night for families and visitors to enjoy. Celebrating its 30th year, the festival runs nightly through January 6th, offering free nightly displays that are perfect for leisurely strolls, festive photos, and memorable seasonal outings. Alongside the dazzling lights, the festival also features a variety of festive events and activities throughout December, providing plenty of opportunities to celebrate the season with friends and loved ones in a magical lakeside setting.
Pick up a Last Minute Handmade Gift at the Local Luxe Market
The Local Luxe Market – Christmas on Main St. Market returns to Milton Mall on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, offering a full day of festive shopping, community connection, and holiday cheer. Located at 55 Ontario Street South, the market features a carefully curated lineup of local artisans, makers, and small businesses, providing visitors with a wide range of unique gifts, seasonal treats, and handmade treasures. Shoppers can enjoy a lively holiday atmosphere, complete with cheerful decorations and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to cross items off your holiday gift list, capture a festive photo, or simply soak in the seasonal spirit, the Christmas on Main St. Market is a joyful celebration of local creativity and community.
Gift Wrapping for a Cause: Support the Milton District Hospital Auxiliary
Have you picked out the perfect gift, but you’re not feeling confident in your wrapping abilities? The Milton District Hospital Auxiliary Group is hosting their annual Gift Wrapping fundraiser from now until December 24th. Visitors can have their holiday gifts beautifully wrapped while supporting a great cause. The service is available Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing plenty of opportunities to drop by during your holiday shopping. It’s a convenient way to add a festive finishing touch to your gifts while giving back to the local community.
Experience the Magic of Light Up the Hills Festival in Halton Hills
If you're looking for a magical way to celebrate the holiday season locally, the Light Up the Hills Festival in Halton Hills is an annual winter tradition that transforms scenic local parks into sparkling, illuminated wonderlands, spreading festive cheer throughout the community. Running from December 1, 2025, to January 11, 2026, the festival invites families and visitors to enjoy free evening strolls through dazzling light displays at Dominion Gardens Park in Georgetown and Shelagh Law Parkette in Glen Williams, from approximately 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM each night. The festivities begin with an Ignition Night ceremony on December 1st, and throughout the season, the event offers a joyful, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for creating holiday memories. Entirely volunteer-driven, the festival highlights the spirit and community pride of Halton Hills, making it a must-visit holiday tradition.
Celebrate the Season: Holiday Events and Festivities Across Halton Region
From sparkling light festivals and festive markets to Santa meet-and-greets and thoughtful holiday fundraisers, Halton Region is brimming with ways to make the season bright. Whether you’re strolling through illuminated parks, picking out unique gifts, or sharing special moments with family and friends, these events bring the warmth, joy, and spirit of the holidays to life. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories and celebrate the season with your community.
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