Winterfest returns with six weeks of events to celebrate the season!

The City of Cambridge is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate the season at Winterfest, the popular annual festival packed with holiday traditions, festive events and family fun, taking place from November 14 to December 31 at various locations throughout the city.

“Winterfest is more than a celebration of the holiday season, it’s an opportunity to come together and celebrate everything that makes Cambridge unique,” said City Manager Rob Axiak. “The festival invites both residents and visitors to experience our community, enjoy time with loved ones and take part in traditions that highlight the character, culture and people that make our city special.”

Winterfest kicks off by welcoming Santa Claus to town, along a new parade route in Preston on Saturday, November 14. The Cambridge Santa Claus Parade will travel along King Street East in Preston between Chestnut and Eagle Streets. This nighttime parade begins at 6 p.m. showcasing floats decorated with lights, festive music from marching bands, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus.

The CPKC Holiday Train will make its annual stop at the Malcolm St. Train Station on Saturday, November 21. Entertainment featuring Turk & The Hobbit begins at 3 p.m. with the Holiday Train arriving at 4:15 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations in support of the Cambridge Food Bank.

The City and the Downtown Cambridge BIA will welcome the season with a festive Tree Lighting ceremony in Queen’s Square on Thursday, November 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Winterfest’s signature events Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night and the Cambridge Holiday Market will both take place on Friday, November 27. Unsilent Night will transform downtown Galt into an interactive outdoor soundscape complete with illuminated installations, inviting participants to be part of a unique artistic experience. The festivities get underway at 7 p.m. Before or after the walk, browse more than 100 vendors at the Cambridge Holiday Market, filling the Cambridge Centre for the Arts and City Hall with unique gifts, seasonal treats and handmade goods. The Holiday Market will run from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday evening. The market will also be open on Saturday, November 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, November 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Preston will hold a Tree Lighting event on Thursday, December 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. in Central Park. This event features live music and performances, plus a ceremony to light the Christmas tree at 7 p.m.

On December 4, Music and Lights in the Village will make downtown Hespeler sparkle from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Gather together to see holiday lights, listen to beautiful performances by local choirs and bands, plus enjoy crafting together, and the magical moment the tree is lit!

Central Park in Preston transforms into Candyland on Saturday, December 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This sweet treat of an event features a fun fair, live entertainment, games and a hot chocolate station. Bring the whole family for a whimsical day of fun and fantasy.

Winterfest wraps up with a family friendly New Year’s Eve party featuring ice skating, live entertainment, games and more! Show off your fanciest footwork both on the ice, and in the inflatable obstacle course! The party runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Hespeler Arena.

For full event details, schedules and updates, visit cambridge.ca/Winterfest.

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