Downtown Orillia, Meet the Holidays!
The holidays are fast approaching and for many, that means it is time to take a break and relax! Luckily, Orillia is a fun spot to be for holidays with markets, events and so many little things happening around town. With Ontario allowing for things to be open this year and having fewer Covid-19 restrictions, this holiday season is bound to be a good one.
Downtown is a fantastic walk in the wintertime, it is lit up beautifully and makes for some great Instagram photos— with trees, street lights and storefront decorated for the holidays. The best part of the lights and fun decorations is that they are not taken down until January, making this an incredible and free way to enjoy the holidays.
Additionally, holiday markets are a great way to shop locally this season! The markets take place on Mississauga street, which has free parking from November 19- January 4th in the parking lots (this does not include on-street parking). This downtown area has shopping nights every Friday until December 17th which means the shops are open later and you are able to shop after dinner. The shops normally close between 5-7pm but now stay open typically until 9 pm. There are also special nights on the street such as the Rustica Night market where vendors on December 10th and 17th will set up shop on Rustica’s patio to showcase their business. If you need to hit another night market before you head home, “Oh Deer Christmas is Here!” Pop-Up Market by Sweet Time Bake Shoppe is also running on December 10th.
There are also a variety of events running at the Opera House if you are interested in music or performing arts!
Finally, the annual holiday events such as free skating, winter hikes and hot chocolate are all great options here in Orillia if you're looking forward to getting back to normal. Mariposa also has all their holiday treats up and running from beautiful cookies, fruit cake and preserved jams- also they have some of the best hot chocolate in town. Just remember at events like free skating at local rinks or sitting anywhere indoors does require proof of vaccination.