The holiday season is the perfect time to inspire your groups with festive getaways. From sparkling villages and magical train rides to European-style markets and country charm, Waterloo Region offers unforgettable experiences that will light up your itineraries.
Whether you’re looking to enhance a 2025 holiday tour or planning ahead for 2026, these two themed weekends showcase the best of the season — and are sure to delight your travellers.
November 21–23, 2025: A Sparkling Start to the Season
Kick off the holidays in style with a weekend filled with twinkling lights, shopping treasures, and cozy festive cheer.
- St. Jacobs Sparkles
The historic Village of St. Jacobs transforms into a holiday wonderland during Sparkles. Your group will be charmed by horse-drawn trolley rides, Victorian carollers, and shops aglow with festive décor. It’s the kind of holiday magic that feels like stepping inside a storybook.
- Waterloo Central Railway Holiday Trains
Nothing sparks nostalgia like a vintage train ride. With festive daytime and evening departures — from Santa’s Nightcap Festive Spirits Flyer to the family-friendly Merry Mission Dayliner — your group can share in laughter, connection, and a dash of North Pole wonder.
- St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market Sip n’ Shop
On Friday evening, the market comes alive with artisanal vendors, live entertainment, and festive cheer. With the entire market licensed, groups can sip while they shop, discovering unique, locally made gifts along the way.
- Bingemans Gift of Lights
End the evening with a drive-through spectacle of over 300 dazzling light displays — perfect for motorcoaches. With highlights like a 40-foot twinkling tree and glowing tunnels, it’s a tradition that delights groups year after year.
December 5–7, 2025: Culture and Christmas Charm
This weekend is all about festive traditions, cultural celebrations, and cozy holiday spirit.
- Christkindl Market
Canada’s original German Christmas Market brings authentic European charm to downtown Kitchener. Four days of food, drink, artisan vendors, and live entertainment create an atmosphere that feels straight out of Europe — without the transatlantic flight.
- Cambridge Holiday Market
At City Hall and the Centre for the Arts, groups will enjoy artisan shopping, live music, food trucks, and even a fire pit lounge. With Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Willy Melt mingling among guests, it’s a playful, festive stop.
- Castle Kilbride: Christmas at the Castle
This grand Victorian mansion shines brightest at the holidays, decorated just as the Livingston family did over a century ago. A candlelight tour makes for a truly enchanting group experience.
- Old Post Office Holiday Light Show
Watch the historic façade light up with vibrant projections choreographed to music, all visible right from the coach — or step outside for an extra dose of winter magic.
- Snyder’s Farm Old-Fashioned Christmas
End the weekend with a warm country welcome. From the Gift Barn and bakery to the Sugar Plum Patio’s cozy treats, Snyder’s offers the kind of rustic holiday charm groups will remember.
Plan Your Holiday Tour in Waterloo Region
From historic villages and twinkling lights to cultural celebrations and country traditions, Waterloo Region offers everything you need to create a festive group tour that stands out from the rest.
There’s still time to add Waterloo Region to your 2025 holiday offerings — and it’s never too early to start planning for 2026.
Additional inspiration for your next group tour can be found on our website.
For more information or to start building your group itinerary, contact Christina Marcotte, Manager of Travel Trade, Explore Waterloo Region.
Start Planning Your Group Tour in Waterloo Region
Christina Marcotte
Manager, Travel Trade
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