Christmas Events
Holiday markets, light trails, parades, and family activities - plan the festive season before the calendar gets busy.
Christmas events arrive every year in a predictable window: markets open in mid-to-late November after Thanksgiving, light displays and parades run through December, and family activities peak in the final two weeks before Christmas Day. The calendar practically writes itself - you just have to start before December.
The Christmas Season Timeline
| Phase | Dates | Signature events |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | After Thanksgiving | Market openings, tree lightings, Santa’s first arrivals |
| Peak | Early - mid December | Light trails, holiday parades, concerts, choir nights |
| Final week | Dec 20 - 24 | Late-night shopping, family shows, high-traffic markets |
| After Christmas | Dec 26 - Jan 1 | Dismantle shows, countdown events, post-holiday markets |
Types of Christmas Events to Track
- Markets: stalls for gifts and food, usually ticketed entry on peak weekends.
- Light displays: drive-through or walk-through trails, often with timed slots.
- Parades & processions: one-day events where weather and crowd size are the variables.
- Concerts & panto/plays: indoor, book early - choir nights and family shows sell out.
- Cookies-with-Santa style family events: kids’ favorites with limited spots.
Plan Before the Rush
The festival community agrees on this: ticket windows open in November. Market entry, light-trail slots, and family photo sessions price up and fill as December approaches. Add these to the calendar in advance - mark the 2026 calendar with the openings, then book the couple of must-dos before the holiday chaos.
Counting Down to Christmas
Start a countdown to Christmas Day to keep perspective, and pair the event calendar with the Thanksgiving guide - because the season actually begins the moment the turkey is cleared. For holiday travel, brush up on December dates so flights and markets never collide.
More to Explore
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Christmas markets open?
Most open in the weeks after Thanksgiving, from mid-November onward, and run until just before Christmas Eve. Some extend through New Year.
Do Christmas events need tickets?
Many do - market entry, timed light trails, and concerts sell tickets. Some are free, especially city tree lightings and parades. Check each official page.
What is the best date to book shows and slots?
Book the week after Thanksgiving at the latest. In reality, weekend slots and family-friendly times fill fastest of all, so reserve those well ahead.
Are outdoor Christmas events weather-dependent?
Yes. Light trails and parades can be rescheduled or cancelled in bad weather, so confirm the status on the venue’s page before traveling.