The Best Christmas Markets Near Barrie — 2025 Guide (Within 50 Minutes)

From twinkling lights to handmade gifts and festive treats, Christmas markets bring out the magic of the season. Lucky for us, Simcoe County is surrounded by some of the best holiday markets in Ontario — all within a short drive of Barrie.

Here’s your complete guide for 2025, with dates, times, what to expect, and local tips to make the most of each one.

⭐ 1. Orillia Christmas Market

📍 Orillia
🗓️ Dates: Often late November to mid-December (exact dates released soon)
🕒 Time: Typically 10am–4pm
What to Expect:

• Dozens of artisan vendors

• Handmade gifts, ornaments, candles

• Kids’ crafts and hot chocolate stands

• Warm, small-town holiday atmosphere
  Local Tip: Parking fills fast — arrive early.

⭐ 2. Coldwater Mill Christmas Market

📍 Coldwater
🗓️ Dates: Usually first weekend of December
🕒 Time: 10am–3pm
What to Expect:

• Authentic historic mill setting

• Local makers, baked goods, and gifts

• Horse-drawn wagon rides (weather permitting)
  Local Tip: Dress warmly — this is an indoor/outdoor hybrid market.

⭐ 3. Carley Hall Christmas Sale

📍 Oro-Medonte
🗓️ Date: Early December
🕒 Time: 9am–3pm
What to Expect:

• Homemade gifts

• Crafts and home baking

• Small-town charm and friendly vendors
  Local Tip: Fantastic spot for stocking stuffers.

⭐ 4. Barrie Christmas Arts & Crafts Show

📍 Barrie
🗓️ Dates: Late November
🕒 Time: 10am–5pm
What to Expect:

• One of the region’s largest holiday craft shows

• 100+ vendors

• Holiday décor, artisan goods, art, toys
  Local Tip: This one can get busy — plan for crowds.

⭐ 5. Midland Festival of Lights & Holiday Market

📍 Midland
🗓️ Dates: Mid-late November
🕒 Time: Evening
What to Expect:

• Tree lighting

• Market booths

• Live music

• Family-friendly entertainment
  Local Tip: Bring mittens — it gets chilly by the waterfront.

⭐ 6. Collingwood & Blue Mountain Holiday Market

📍 Collingwood / The Village at Blue Mountain
🗓️ Dates: Weekends throughout December
🕒 Time: Afternoon & evening
What to Expect:

• European-style outdoor holiday market

• Gourmet food, mulled wine

• Live entertainment, sleigh rides

• Incredible backdrop for photos
  Local Tip: Parking fills fast on weekends — carpool if possible.

⭐ 7. Creemore Holiday Market

📍 Creemore
🗓️ Dates: Early–mid December
🕒 Time: 10am–3pm
What to Expect:

• Charming small-town Christmas experience

• Local makers + Creemore 100 Mile Store special offerings

• Cozy, festive main street
  Local Tip: Combine your visit with lunch at a local café or brewery.

⭐ 8. Gravenhurst Winter Market

📍 Gravenhurst
🗓️ Dates: December Saturdays
🕒 Time: 9am–1pm
What to Expect:

• Indoor/outdoor artisan vendors

• Fresh baking, crafts, preserves

• Great for last-minute gifting
  Local Tip: Bring a reusable bag — you’ll leave with more than planned.

FAQ: Christmas Markets in Simcoe County

Q: Which Christmas markets are best for kids?

A: Orillia and Blue Mountain offer the most family-friendly experiences.

Q: Are the markets free to attend?

A: Most markets are free, though some may ask for small donations.

Q: Are pets allowed?

A: Outdoor markets often allow pets; indoor markets typically do not.

P.S.

Have a favourite holiday market we missed? Reply and let us know — we love sharing community events with our readers.