Looking for a dose of holiday magic? Then head to Elora, where the brand-new Christmas market has transformed this charming village into the ultimate winter wonderland. Just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, Elora is the perfect spot to escape the city and immerse yourself in festive cheer. Think twinkling lights, cozy vibes, and a picture-perfect setting that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Whether you’re strolling through the market, savouring seasonal treats, or soaking in the small-town charm, Elora has everything you need to bring your holiday fantasies to life.
The Christmas Market:
Elora is known for its old-world European feel and the Christmas Market delivers the same charm and romance. The Market stretches across 12,000 feet of cobblestone streets and is lined with designer cedar wood chalets filled with a variety of local community vendors. The twinkling market sets the town aglow with over 88,000 energy-efficient LED lights culminating at the centre where a uniquely living, rooted 35-foot sparkling Christmas Tree soars above the celebrations.
You can stroll through the market, stop at Le Chien Chaud food truck and enjoy a Southwest Dog, classic Burger, poutine and hot cocoa or apple cider and lounge by the plein-air fire tables with handmade real-wood Muskoka chairs. With over 150 trees festooned with lights and ornaments, alongside Instagram-worthy decor, there are plenty of treats and photo-ops throughout. The market runs day and night until December 29 from 11:00 am to 7:30 pm with evening live music & shows across different venues.
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Where to Stay:
Elora’s newest opening the Kat Florence Hotel
This whimsical town is an easy day trip for families and couples looking for a seamless excursion, however, there are local gems to accommodate every overnight visitor’s style. The Kat Florence Hotel is a new opening in Elora, merging timeless beauty with refined comfort and modern luxury. Housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1848, the property has been lovingly restored by jeweller and Elora native Kat Florence.
Renowned for her exquisite creations that blend enduring elegance with bold innovation, Kat Florence has expanded her brand into hospitality. The Kat Florence is a unique luxury retreat with 5 suites and the spectacular stand-alone Diamond Cottage. Though the property provides contactless check-in and check-out with an individualized, state-of-the-art code-operated entrance instead of a traditional staffed reservations desk, you will have full access to a personalized concierge team available to provide a suite orientation and plan your bespoke stay.
Once you step into your guest room, you will be met with floor-to-ceiling original stone walls, lavish finishings and breathtaking views of the Grand River or overlooking the Christmas Market. The guest rooms have everything you need for a relaxing escape. The fully equipped modern kitchen is stocked with Sloan tea, a Nespresso machine, a French press with Illy gourmet coffee, and sophisticated flatware and kitchenware. The chic living space comes complete with an electric fireplace and the washroom features a rainfall shower, locally crafted bath products, plush robes and a Dyson hairdryer. The attention to detail is also matched in the sumptuous bedroom which features a king bed with a cloud-like pillow-top mattress, Au Lit linens, and a separate vanity area with ample closet space, seating, and full-length mirror. From the fun board games like Backgammon and Dominoes to the cozy blankets and slippers, consider the Kat Florence Hotel your opulent home away from home, perfect for experiencing Elora in style.
Where to eat
The Wild Tart
Elora is a culinary paradise with restaurants that will suit any palette. A must-visit is The Wild Tart, a European-style patisserie offering exquisite café dining and afternoon tea service. Executive Pastry Chef Marc Collyer brings over two decades of experience from esteemed establishments like The Manor House in Castle Combe, England and the Owners Dominique and Geoffrey Wild, with a combined 40 years in hospitality, have managed renowned venues worldwide, including The Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. Definitely order the Signature Afternoon Tea which comes with sweet and savoury delights like their creamy garlic mushroom and leek wanton and the pumpkin spiced cheesecake macaron alongside their famous scones.
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The Evelyn
After a day of exploring the Christmas Market, you can also warm up at The Evelyn which serves the best French Onion Soup in the province. This cozy French bistro offers a convivial atmosphere, exceptional service and an all-day menu that features comfort classics like beef bourguignon and shrimp & grits. Finally, for an elevated meal in Elora, reserve the restaurant at the Elora Mill. You can snag a table overlooking the Gorge which lights up at night offering a stunning show alongside a tasty meal. Adventurous guests can order the blind four-course tasting menu where Executive Chef Dacha Markovic creates incredible dishes that explore the best of seasonal ingredients. For a la carte options, order the Fogo Island Pink Shrimp, Roasted Carrot Salad and the Goat Cheese Gnudi with lamb ragoût and braised kale. Make sure to save room for dessert as all pastry is made in-house including the Tart Citron with Ontario passionfruit, lemon curd and honey cake. You won’t leave Elora hungry!
What to do & where to shop:
Elora Mill Spa
Elora is recognized for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and wellness retreats and you can experience all of this at the Elora Mill Spa. Book a pedicure with luxurious seating perched cliffside with views that celebrate the magnificence of nature or give yourself a lavish and indulgent pampering experience with an array of body therapies which come with access to the spa amenities like a sauna, steam room and outdoor hot tub that’s enough for Elora’s winter weather!
Aria
After spoiling yourself at the world-renowned spa, support locals and visit the variety of artisanal shops for all your gift-giving needs. Aria is an adorable Men’s & Women’s boutique nestled in the Mews courtyard where you will find a curated selection of clothing, bags and accessories. Seasons Home & Gift offers a handpicked selection of home decor, self-care & giftware including quirky and campy ornaments for your tree!
Cordial Clove Books
Cordial Clove Books is a new and used, queer-owned bookshop with a wide selection of titles and plenty of cozy nooks to curl up with your favourite author.
Evelyn and Dar’s Country Market
For gourmands, Fromagerie Evelyn and Dar’s Country Market are brimming with delicious global finds perfect for any snack basket!
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Elora Brewing Company
While in town, taste the craftsmanship of Elora Brewing Company, known for its exceptional craft beers brewed on-site, and Elora Distilling Company, offering handcrafted spirits like gin, vodka, and whiskey; perfect for enjoying unique holiday-inspired beverages.
The Gorge Cinema Canada
Finally, you can catch classic Christmas films at The Gorge Cinema Canada’s oldest active rectory cinema!
Nestled along the breathtaking Grand River, Elora is a true gem that perfectly blends small-town charm with vibrant culture. From its thriving arts scene and unique artisan shops to its postcard-worthy scenery and welcoming community vibes, this enchanting town has everything you need for a magical holiday escape.
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