The winter air is upon us once again and the stores are filled with Christmas décor, lifting the festive spirit in us all. As the seasons change, we have the holiday season to look forward to. Moments filled with cheer, and as always, a sense of Christmas magic. Whether you’re new to the city or have already created your own holiday traditions in our cozy Forest City, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Christmas! Keep reading to find out more and get ready to mark your calendars.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train, Nov. 24 — Richmond St. and Piccadilly St.

The holiday train will be passing through parts of Canada and the US, spreading holiday cheer across borders. This is always a fun and free event to attend. The event that takes place in downtown London has a performance where the street becomes filled with event goers. The train filled with holiday lights is truly a sight to see this month. In addition to the festivities, CPKC also donates to the local food bank at each stop! If you’re near downtown on the 24th, make sure to check this out.

Merry Market, Nov. 28 to Dec. 15 — 100 Kellogg Lane

For the fifth year in a row, the Merry Market is coming back to 100 Kellogg Lane. With free admission, there is lots of entertainment at this decked out Christmas market. It’s the perfect place to go with friends and family, but also to pick up a few Christmas presents! If you’re interested in going to this market, be sure to check out their lightning ceremony on Nov. 28 at 6 p.m.

Lighting of the Lights, Nov. 29 — Victoria Park

For me, this is when I really know Christmas is around the corner! The lighting of the lights at Victoria Park is always an event that should be in your holiday schedule. It’s free and being in the crisp air outdoors with all the festive lights is the best way to ring in the holiday spirit. This annual event will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 29 and the lights will be turned on approximately 6:55 p.m. There will also be other entertainment activities for students to indulge in.

Holly Jolly Holiday Market, Nov. 29 to Dec. 22 — Covent Garden Market

The perfect holiday itinerary includes going to see the lighting of the lights in Victoria Park and then making a short walk down to Covent Garden Market as they kick off their Holly Jolly Holiday Market. This will be their third year hosting this Christmas event that everyone talks about! This year, students can expect a cocktail garden, workshops (letters to Santa), horse and carriage rides, and so much more.

Home Alone in Concert, Dec. 14 — Canada Life Place

If you’ve read some of my articles before, you know that there is not a Christmas that goes by without Home Alone on my television screen! And I know I’m not the only one. This year, we can take this iconic Christmas movie from the screens to the stage at Canada Life Place. This is a great family event that students should look into if they are as crazy about Home Alone as I am!

New Year’s Eve in the Park, Dec. 31 — Victoria Park

It all ends in our Victoria Park! Reflect on the year as you ring in 2025 standing in Victoria Park. Students can expect fireworks, ice-skating, live music, and so much more. This free event is a great community-based way to begin a fresh year ahead.

The holidays for students can be a great break away from their academic studies and can also be a way to build excitement for all of the holiday cheer. Students are encouraged to use this time in the city to make memories with their friends and family.