Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit and make the most of December with a lineup of exciting events in Kingston! This Month in Kingston – December 2023 is here to guide you through the top happenings in the city. From festive markets to live music performances and community celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere and create lasting memories with friends and family. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a month filled with holiday cheer. Here are the must-attend events that will make your December in Kingston truly unforgettable:
Kingston Trolly Tour – Christmas Light Tour
- Date: Starting December 1st
- Location: Departs from downtown Kingston
- Description: Embrace the holiday spirit with our Christmas Light Tour, returning on December 1st, 2023! A magical 75-minute trolley ride through the illuminated streets of Kingston, where the city comes alive with festive lights and decorations. Carol along to beloved Christmas classics as you enjoy the cozy warmth of our red trolley. It’s a festive family activity that will fill your heart with holiday cheer. Tours operate on Thursdays through Sundays from December 1st to December 24th and then daily from December 25th to December 31st. Take advantage of this enchanting experience that’s perfect for all ages. Click here to learn more and get your tickets!
Alight at Night
- Date: Starting December 1st
- Location: Upper Canada Village
- Description: Bundle up and prepare for a mesmerizing winter experience at Upper Canada Village’s annual Alight at Night Festival. This enchanting event transforms the historic village into a winter wonderland, illuminating over one million lights that adorn heritage buildings, trees, and fences. Take a leisurely evening stroll through this picturesque postcard setting, where the magical ambiance will transport you to a bygone era. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, surrounded by the warm glow of countless lights. Alight at Night is the perfect festive outing for families, couples, and friends, offering a memorable and magical experience you won’t want to miss. Learn more and get your tickets here.
Kingston Holiday Market
- Date(s): December 2-3rd, December 9-10th, December 16–17th, 11 AM – 4 PM
- Location: Tett Centre
- Description: Get into the festive spirit with the Kingston Holiday Market! Taking place over the first three weekends of December, this vibrant event showcases the talents of over 55 local makers. Explore various unique and locally crafted goods, making it the perfect opportunity for holiday shopping. With new vendors joining every week, you’ll discover an ever-changing selection of gifts and treasures. Admission is free, so bring your friends and family to enjoy the holiday atmosphere and support Kingston’s thriving artisan community. Don’t miss out on this wonderful seasonal shopping experience! Click here for more details.
German Christmas Market
- Date: Sunday, December 3rd
- Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Amadeus Cafe
- Description: Embrace the holiday spirit at the annual German Christmas Market! Head to Amadeus Cafe and indulge in a warm mug of Gluhwein, savor mouth-watering currywurst or pretzels, and explore the creations of talented local artisans. From homemade stollen and traditional lebkuchen Herzen to freshly baked goods and crafts, this event is a holiday must-visit. Gain admission to the German Christmas Market by simply bringing along one or more non-perishable food items. It’s a festive way to kick off the holiday season, so gather your friends and family for an evening filled with German holiday traditions and community spirit. Take advantage of this heartwarming event.
McKinnon Brothers Holiday Market
- Dates: December 2nd and 3rd
- Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: 1915 County Rd 22, Bath, ON
- Description: Get ready for a festive extravaganza at the McKinnon Brothers Holiday Market! This delightful event features a diverse array of over 50 local artisan and food vendors each weekend. Admission is $10 in cash at the gate, and kids 12 and under get in for free. You can expect a wide variety of vendors, offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious local food. The market is the perfect place to kickstart your holiday shopping and support local artisans. Enjoy holiday activities like photos with Santa, cookie decorating, sleigh rides, and more! Click here for a complete vendor list and more details.
The Nutcracker
- Date: December 7th and 8th
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: Kingston Grand Theatre, Rosen Auditorium
- Description: Experience a mesmerizing Kingston holiday tradition as Grand OnStage presents The Nutcracker by The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. This world-renowned ballet company brings to life the classic tale of Clara and her magical Nutcracker, weaving a spellbinding performance featuring stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and breathtaking choreography. Audiences of all ages will be captivated by the immense talent and precision of the dancers, showcasing graceful movements and technical prowess that leave you in awe. Tchaikovsky’s enchanting music enhances the magical atmosphere, making this production a must-see holiday tradition that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it. Learn more and get your tickets here.
A Tyler Shaw Christmas
- Date: Saturday, December 9th
- Location: The Broom Factory
- Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM; Showtime at 7:30 PM
- Description: Experience an unforgettable evening of music as Tyler Shaw, the multi-platinum-selling artist, music producer, and actor, takes the stage at The Broom Factory in Kingston. Originally from Vancouver, BC, Tyler Shaw has made his mark in the Canadian music scene with chart-topping singles and a versatile talent that has garnered him multiple JUNO Award nominations. He has shared the stage with international stars like Shawn Mendes and Alessia Cara and toured with Selena Gomez. In 2021, he released “A Tyler Shaw Christmas,” a heartwarming collection of original and classic holiday tunes. This year, Tyler is set to release new holiday music, adding to the festive repertoire. With a string of top-ten charting singles and a rich portfolio of movie, TV, feature, and production credits, Tyler Shaw is undoubtedly one of Canada’s most enduring talents. Don’t miss this special holiday performance! Learn more and order tickets for an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
Elvis – A Christmas Special with Pete Paquette
- Date: Friday, December 15th
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Kingston Grand Theatre, Rosen Auditorium
- Description: Get ready for a heartwarming holiday experience as Pete Paquette, renowned for his remarkable portrayal of Elvis Presley, returns with his band, the Rockin’ Royals, and the sensational Tonettes to present “Elvis – A Christmas Special.” This festive tribute performance will celebrate the Christmas holidays with the King’s most fabulous Christmas carols and inspirational songs, including classics like “Blue Christmas,” “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “The Wonderful World of Christmas,” and many more beloved seasonal favorites. Pete will take you on a magical journey through the entire Christmas songbook, sharing his personal favorite Christmas songs that hold a special place in his heart. Take advantage of this joyous event that will inspire the Christmas spirit in everyone! Elvis – A Christmas Special is the perfect way to celebrate the season, and we promise you won’t have a ‘Blue Christmas’ when you join us for this memorable show. Learn more and get your tickets.
RE/MAX RISE Winter Festival
- Date: Sunday, December 17th
- Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Invista Centre
- Description: Join us for the RE/MAX RISE Winter Festival, a heartwarming event in support of BGC South East (formerly Boys and Girls Club). On Sunday, December 17th, the Invista Centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland for the entire community to enjoy. Lace up your skates for some ice time, hop on a wagon ride, try your luck with raffle prizes, and keep the kids entertained with a special kid’s zone and activities. Plus, explore the holiday vendor market for unique gifts and treats. Mark your calendars, and don’t miss this fantastic community event that spreads warmth and cheer during the holiday season. See you there!
The Glorious Sons – The Glory Tour
- Date: December 31st
- Time: Show starts at 8:15 PM
- Location: Leon’s Centre
- Description: Join the two-time JUNO Award-winning rock band, The Glorious Sons, on their Glory Tour following the release of their brand-new single “Mercy Mercy.” This tour will take them across North America, with special guests The Blue Stones and the Velveteers joining them on select dates. The Glory Tour includes a special hometown show in Kingston, ON, at Leon’s Centre on December 31st, 2023, to ring in the New Year. The band’s presale has already begun, and the public on-sale starts on June 23rd. Limited VIP packages with exclusive experiences and merchandise are available. “Mercy Mercy” is their latest single, offering a vivid sonic experience with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing the band’s anthemic and ambitious side. It’s a journey into faith in oneself and the future, even amidst the past’s lingering presence. Don’t miss this chance to see The Glorious Sons live in Kingston and experience their dynamic sound. Learn more and get your tickets for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve concert.
Kingston Frontenac Games
- Dates: Multiple dates throughout December
- Location: Leon’s Centre
- Description: Cheer on our local hockey heroes this October as they hit the ice at the Leon’s Centre in Kingston. Get ready for an action-packed month of thrilling games, unforgettable moments, and the excitement of live hockey. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there’s no better way to spend your evenings than by supporting our local team. Check out the full schedule and secure your tickets here to witness the Frontenacs in action. Show your hometown pride and be part of the cheering crowd as we come together to support our local hockey team.
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