If you ever wondered what Christmas was like in the 1800s, step back in time and visit these 10 wonderful places (or at least one of them) in Ontario to experience pioneer Christmas celebrations.

Ontario is home to several living history sites that let you discover Christmas as it was celebrated by pioneers. From lantern-lit strolls through historic villages to cozy fireside caroling and old-fashioned crafts, these destinations offer a festive blend of tradition, Christmas charm, and nostalgia. Get ready to celebrate the holidays pioneer-style at these enchanting spots across Ontario!

10 Ontario Places to Visit for Pioneer Christmas

1

Black Creek Pioneer Village, Toronto

Black Creek Pioneer Village transports you to a 19th-century Christmas with its charmingly decorated historical buildings, candlelit lanterns, and festive activities. During its “Christmas by Lamplight” event, the village is beautifully illuminated as visitors wander through the snowy streets, meeting costumed characters who share tales of pioneer holiday traditions. You can learn about Christmas crafts, bake traditional treats, and join in a lively Victorian dance. Caroling around the fire and sampling fresh mulled cider complete this immersive experience, making it an unforgettable way to step into the past.

2

Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg

Upper Canada Village takes holiday celebrations to a whole new level with its spectacular “Alight at Night” festival. This historic site turns into a breathtaking winter wonderland as over a million lights illuminate the village. Walk along snowy paths lined with historic buildings, all decked out in festive decorations, and enjoy a sleigh ride to capture the essence of a pioneer Christmas. With hot cocoa, old-fashioned treats, and even a visit from Father Christmas, Upper Canada Village brings joy, nostalgia, and wonder to holiday celebrations. Perfect for families, couples, and history lovers alike, this is one stop you won’t want to miss.

3

Westfield Heritage Village, Rockton

Located just outside Hamilton, Westfield Heritage Village offers an enchanting glimpse into pioneer life, especially during their “Christmas in the Pioneer Spirit” events. As you wander through the village’s log cabins, general stores, and churches, you’ll see costumed interpreters demonstrating Victorian holiday traditions. You can try your hand at making pioneer decorations, sample traditional sweets, and experience the warmth of candlelight illuminating the village’s historic buildings. Westfield’s tranquil, snowy surroundings make it an idyllic holiday destination where visitors can slow down, connect with nature, and celebrate Christmas like pioneers did.

4

Lang Pioneer Village, Keene

Located just 10 minutes east of Peterborough on the shores of the Indian River, Lang Pioneer Village hosts its annual “Christmas by Candlelight” event, turning this historic site into a cozy holiday retreat. History comes to life there! The Village Museum features over 30 restored and recreated buildings. Stroll through the village’s glowing paths lined with candles and immerse yourself in festive pioneer activities. Costumed interpreters showcase age-old holiday customs, from baking in a wood-burning stove to creating natural decorations with pine and berries. With live music, wagon rides, and even an opportunity to meet Father Christmas, Lang Pioneer Village offers a wholesome, family-friendly way to experience the charm of Christmas as it was celebrated in the past.

5

Fanshawe Pioneer Village, London

Fanshawe Pioneer Village brings the holiday season to life with its “A Village Christmas” event. This lively celebration allows visitors to explore the traditions of a Victorian Christmas with festive decorations, historical characters, and authentic holiday activities. You’ll see demonstrations of classic holiday crafts, such as making popcorn garlands and decorating with dried fruit. Carolers wander the village singing beloved Christmas songs, creating a truly festive atmosphere. This interactive experience provides a unique opportunity for families to learn about holiday traditions from a bygone era, all in a beautifully preserved pioneer village.

6

Doon Heritage Village, Kitchener

Doon Heritage Village, part of the Waterloo Region Museum, offers a slice of pioneer life set against a beautiful winter landscape. During the holiday season, Doon’s “Country Christmas” event invites visitors to experience a 1914 Christmas. Walk through snow-covered paths lined with historic buildings and see how holiday preparations were made over a century ago. With hot cider, traditional baking, and opportunities to try period crafts, Doon Heritage Village is perfect for families looking to step back in time and experience the simplicity of an early 20th-century Christmas.

7

Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons, Midland

Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons, Ontario’s oldest reconstructed French Jesuit settlement, hosts a “First Light” event that illuminates the holiday season in a unique way. Thousands of candles light up the historic site, creating a breathtaking atmosphere as visitors explore the traditions of both Indigenous peoples and early settlers. The event includes seasonal music, arts and crafts, and a festive marketplace. This celebration offers a distinctive look at the blending of cultures during early holiday celebrations in Ontario, making it a culturally rich and visually stunning holiday experience.

8

Pickering Museum Village, Pickering

Pickering Museum Village offers an intimate holiday experience with its “A Victorian Christmas” event. Decorated in classic Victorian style, the museum village showcases holiday traditions from the 1800s, with staff dressed in period attire sharing stories about the origins of Christmas customs. Guests can enjoy hot cider, hear about pioneer holiday meals, and create handmade ornaments to take home. The village’s intimate setting and historical details make it feel like you’ve stepped into a real 19th-century celebration.

9

Kawartha Settlers’ Village, Bobcaygeon

During the holidays, Kawartha Settlers’ Village in Bobcaygeon turns into a festive pioneer village with their “Festival of Trees” event. The village is decorated with an array of Christmas trees, each uniquely adorned with ornaments and lights. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with carolers, Santa visits, and a magical light display. Visitors can explore the decorated log cabins, participate in Christmas crafts, and enjoy holiday treats, making it an ideal holiday destination for families looking to experience a pioneer Christmas.

10

Glengarry Pioneer Museum, Dunvegan

The Glengarry Pioneer Museum offers a cozy, authentic holiday celebration at its “Old-Fashioned Christmas” event. Set in the small town of Dunvegan, the museum features traditional holiday crafts, caroling, and sleigh rides through snowy landscapes. The event celebrates early Scottish and French-Canadian Christmas traditions, with opportunities to sample homemade goodies, watch blacksmithing demonstrations, and warm up by a crackling fire. It’s a delightful, intimate way to experience a traditional Christmas.

MacLachlan Woodworking Museum, Kingston

For a unique twist on a pioneer Christmas, head to Kingston’s MacLachlan Woodworking Museum. This museum celebrates the art of woodworking with a “Heritage Christmas” event, where visitors can try their hand at crafting holiday decorations. The cozy museum, decorated with classic holiday decor, offers workshops on making wooden ornaments and small gifts. This hands-on experience is both educational and festive, perfect for families who love crafting and history.

Plan Your Pioneer Christmas Adventure in Ontario

Ontario’s pioneer villages offer a truly magical way to celebrate the holidays, each providing a glimpse into the customs, foods, and decorations that defined Christmas in early Canada. These destinations, with their charming decorations, candlelit streets, and hands-on activities, bring the past to life and allow you to experience the warmth, simplicity, and beauty of a traditional Christmas. So, grab your coziest scarf, sip some mulled cider, and get ready to celebrate Christmas like a pioneer in Ontario’s most historic settings.