Picture it: a charming town where whimsical winter shop windows line the streets, the smell of frost-tipped trees lingers in the air as you snack on treats from the local bakery, and revellers skate the day away on the outdoor rink. Sound familiar? If you love the cheerful charm of holiday TV movies, spend a day living the festive feeling with a getaway to Mississauga.
COZY LOCAL BAKERIES
Small-town bakeries filled with the best hot chocolate you’ll ever taste and freshly baked treats are a staple in every holiday TV movie, where hot drink mishaps make for the perfect meet-cutes. Channel the sweetness with a visit to these Mississauga spots:
- The Tea Room: Bring a friend for an elegant afternoon tea complete with seasonal scones, tarts and cakes at this inviting teahouse set in a picturesque heritage building. Book the Christmas Tea experience for an extra special afternoon with even more seasonal delights.
- Rania’s Cakes: From the pink nutcrackers to the treat-filled display case, this Port Credit bakeshop is perfectly dressed for a holiday movie – or a girl’s day out.
- Little Rose Cookie Co.: Visit a bakery that’s right out of a TV bake-off special! The team at Little Rose Cookie Co. are winners of the Food Network Christmas Cookie Challenge, and you’ll see why after just one bite of their tasty festive sugar cookies.
CHARMING CHRISTMAS TREE LOTS
What holiday movie is complete without a visit to pick out a freshly cut tree? Stop into these local spots to soak in the nostalgia and the crispy, woodsy scents.
- Real Trees for Real People: Every year, the folks at this family-owned farm bring a selection of their very best trees to a lot in Clarkson, creating an annual tradition that’s beloved by locals. Every buyer leaves with a special handmade ornament to hang on them at home – the perfect keepsake for this quintessential Christmas experience.
- Sheridan Nurseries: Every year, Sheridan transforms into one of the most festive spots in the city, with a lot filled with hundreds of fresh trees, beautiful boughs, and thousands of glittering decorations in store. Right out of a romance movie, this beautiful nursery has even been the site of some holiday proposals!
MAGICAL HOLIDAY FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Whether you’re looking for the perfect photograph of a star-topped tree, a cavalcade of lights to brighten up your night or a magical experience to spark your holiday spirit, Mississauga has something for everyone this festive season.
- Holiday Season at illumi: Journey through the world’s biggest light display, with enchanting lands filled with wondrous illuminated creations, plus a special meet and greet with Santa himself.
- Winter Magic at Celebration Square: See Celebration Square lit up for the season with twinkling lights atop the city’s tree and the incredible moonGARDEN art installations on display, filled with enchanting shadow theatres and soundscapes.
MARKETS AND MAIN STREET SHOPS
Giving a heartfelt, one-of-a-kind gift is a classic movie scene, and plenty of plots revolve around finding the perfect present. From artisan markets to small boutiques along Main Streets adorned in lights, these Sauga shopping experiences are made for movies.
- Mississauga Festival of Trees: Visit the Small Arms Inspection Building for the city’s most eclectic and exciting holiday market. With over 80 artisan and culinary vendors, you’re sure to discover the most unique finds for all of your holiday gifting. Filled with artist-designed trees, live musicians and seasonal displays, you’ll want to have your camera ready to capture the market memories.
- Shop Downtown Streetsville: Take a stroll along Streetsville’s main street to enjoy the windows decked out in holiday displays, and venture inside to explore the delightful finds in charming shops like Little Bee Farmers Market, Crafted Décor, Hobby Hobby and The Book Wardrobe.
Stay tuned to Visit Mississauga’s special events for more upcoming markets and shopping experiences, or explore more locally-owned shops with character.
FROSTY BUT FUN-FILLED OUTDOOR ICE SKATING
Looking to impress a date with your skating skills, bond over a new activity or simply enjoy the magic of a chilly outdoor winter activity? Head to these picture-perfect rinks.
- Celebration Square: The largest outdoor rink in the city, Celebration Square is the perfect place to skate if you like to be at the centre of city life, with music, lights and a Christmas tree making for the ultimate winter outing ambiance. Skate and helmet rentals are available, as well as sharpening.
- Natural Ice Rinks: For a pick-up hockey game or a solo skate away from the hustle and bustle, Mississauga has 32 natural rinks across parks throughout the city, so there are lots of options for a more intimate skating adventure.
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