CAMBRIDGE, Ontario — The City of Cambridge is preparing to welcome residents and visitors for Winterfest 2026, a six-week seasonal celebration featuring holiday markets, illuminated displays, live entertainment, community gatherings and family-friendly activities.
Running from November 14 through December 31, the annual festival will bring events to neighbourhoods across Cambridge, including Galt, Preston and Hespeler. The program includes established holiday traditions alongside opportunities for residents to support local businesses, artisans and community organizations.
“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.”
Cambridge Santa Claus Parade Opens Winterfest on November 14
Winterfest will officially begin with the Cambridge Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, November 14.
This year’s nighttime parade will follow a new route along King Street East in Preston, between Chestnut and Eagle Streets.
Beginning at 6 p.m., the procession will feature illuminated floats, marching bands performing seasonal music and an appearance by Santa Claus.
The festival continues on November 21 when the CPKC Holiday Train makes its annual stop at Malcolm Street Train Station.
Entertainment featuring Turk & The Hobbit begins at 3 p.m., followed by the train’s scheduled arrival at 4:15 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to contribute non-perishable food donations supporting the Cambridge Food Bank, connecting the holiday celebration with local charitable efforts.
Holiday Market and Unsilent Night Highlight November Festivities
A series of downtown events will take place during the final week of November, offering entertainment and seasonal shopping opportunities.
The City of Cambridge and Downtown Cambridge Business Improvement Area will host a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony at Queen’s Square on November 26, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Cambridge Holiday Market Features More Than 100 Vendors
The Cambridge Holiday Market opens November 27, bringing more than 100 vendors to the Cambridge Centre for the Arts and City Hall.
Visitors can browse handmade products, seasonal gifts, specialty goods and holiday treats.
Market hours are scheduled as follows:
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November 27: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
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November 28: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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November 29: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The market provides a seasonal retail opportunity for independent vendors and artisans while encouraging visitors to explore downtown Cambridge.
Also on November 27, Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night will transform downtown Galt into an interactive outdoor soundscape featuring illuminated installations.
The artistic event begins at 7 p.m. and invites participants to experience music and visual displays while walking through the downtown area.
December Events Bring Holiday Celebrations Across Cambridge
Winterfest programming will continue throughout December with community celebrations in Preston and Hespeler.
Preston’s Central Park will host a tree-lighting celebration on December 3 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring live music, performances and the official Christmas tree illumination at 7 p.m.
On December 4, Music and Lights in the Village will bring holiday entertainment to downtown Hespeler from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The event will include performances by local choirs and bands, craft activities, festive lighting and a community tree-lighting ceremony.
Candyland Returns to Preston’s Central Park
Families can attend Candyland on December 12, when Central Park in Preston becomes a holiday-themed entertainment destination.
Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event will feature fairground activities, live performances, games and a hot chocolate station.
The program is designed to offer seasonal entertainment for families and children.
Winterfest Concludes With Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration
The festival will conclude December 31 with an afternoon New Year’s Eve celebration at Hespeler Arena.
Running from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., the event will feature ice skating, live entertainment, games and an inflatable obstacle course.
The earlier schedule offers families an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of the new year together.
Beyond its entertainment program, Winterfest provides opportunities for community engagement, downtown activity and seasonal commerce across Cambridge’s three historic centres.
Residents and visitors can find complete event schedules, venue information and updates through the city’s official Winterfest website at cambridge.ca/Winterfest.
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