Cambridge, Ont. — A popular Winterfest attraction is set to make its return to Preston this weekend, as the City of Cambridge brings back Candyland, a one-day family event promising games, entertainment, and seasonal treats in Central Park.
Scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Candyland is expected to draw families from across the region with its mix of outdoor activities, live performances, and a dedicated hot chocolate station. The event marks another instalment in the city’s annual Winterfest lineup, known for encouraging outdoor community engagement during the colder months.
City officials say Candyland’s return reflects strong public interest in accessible, family-friendly celebrations. The event will take place at Central Park, located at 615 King St. E. in Preston, a neighbourhood that has served as a recurring hub for municipal festivities. Organizers describe the park’s central location and open layout as key advantages for hosting an event designed to attract steady foot traffic throughout the day.
A highlight of the program will be remarks from Mayor Jan Liggett, scheduled for 10:50 a.m. “There will be remarks from Mayor Jan Liggett at 10:50 a.m.,” the release states, underscoring the city’s intention to position Candyland not only as a recreational attraction but also as an opportunity for civic connection. The mayor’s involvement reflects Cambridge’s ongoing emphasis on community-driven programming and local engagement.
While the city has not detailed all attractions in the release, it notes that “the one-day event will feature activities and games for the whole family, live entertainment, and a hot chocolate station.” Previous versions of Candyland have included craft centres, costumed characters, and holiday-themed installations, though specific features for 2025 were not listed. Even so, the combination of interactive games and festive refreshments is expected to align with longstanding Winterfest traditions.
Winterfest itself has become an established seasonal fixture in Cambridge, drawing residents into public spaces during the early winter period. Although many Winterfest offerings span multiple days or locations, Candyland remains one of the festival’s concentrated events, designed to provide a full experience within a single day. The city’s communications emphasize its family-oriented nature, suggesting an appeal to households seeking low-cost or no-cost weekend activities as the holiday season approaches.
Local businesses and community groups often see increased activity around Winterfest events, as increased foot traffic benefits the surrounding commercial areas. Preston, with its mixture of independent retailers and small restaurants, stands to gain from visitor spillover before and after the event. City planners have in the past highlighted such events as part of broader economic-development efforts aimed at strengthening neighbourhood vitality during slower retail months.
For residents, Candyland also offers an accessible opportunity to engage with municipal leadership in an informal setting. Mayor Liggett’s planned remarks, while brief, often touch on seasonal themes, city priorities, and appreciation for community participation, providing a moment of civic unity before activities begin in full.
The city encourages attendees to dress for the weather, as most of Candyland’s programming is held outdoors. Parking availability may be limited around Central Park during peak hours, and residents are encouraged to consider walking, cycling, or using public transit where possible.
With its mix of entertainment, family programming, and community presence, Candyland is positioned as one of Winterfest’s most anticipated events. As the holiday season approaches and temperatures drop, the city hopes the event will offer residents a chance to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a small dose of seasonal whimsy.
More information about the event is available at cambridge.ca/candyland.
