Things to do this weekend in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa: Dec. 6 to Dec. 8
Published December 6, 2024 at 11:59 am
The holiday spirit is in full swing this weekend in Durham! From Pickering’s artisan markets and sparkling light displays to Ajax’s lively fairs and multicultural celebrations, the seasonal cheer is everywhere. Whitby enchants with its classic Santa Claus Parade and creative workshops, while Oshawa shines with festive concerts, historical lamplight tours and dog-friendly gatherings.
Here’s a look at some of the events happening from Dec. 6 to Dec. 8:
December 6
Ajax:
Bollywood Bhangra Glow Night
Dance the night away to electrifying Bollywood and Bhangra beats under vibrant neon lights. Join the Glow Queen Contest for a chance to shine!
Where: 75 Centennial Rd. (Ajax Community Centre)
When: 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Cost: $20
Whitby:
ECSTATICA: Astral Lights
Join the community for an evening of ecstatic dance, music, and creative expression.
Where: 12 Stanley Crt, Unit 2
When: 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Cost: $39
Oshawa:
Next Generation Leahy’s Christmas
Experience a festive and dynamic performance by Leahy, the Next Generation Christmas show. This Canadian family band brings the spirit of the holidays to life with their high-energy music and traditions.
Where: 50 King St. E.
When: 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Cost: $51
December 7
Pickering:
Winter Wonderland (Dec. 7 and Dec. 14)
Join the City of Pickering and Nautical Village businesses for a magical winter event at Millennium Square. Highlights include live ice carving, holiday vendors, buskers, s’mores stations and miniature train rides. Don’t miss the public art installation, “Same Material / Different Time” by Studio Jordan Shaw.
Where: Millennium Square, Pickering
When: 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Elvis Tribute Concert
Celebrate the magic of Elvis Presley’s music at this tribute concert, featuring timeless hits and holiday classics.
Where: 888 Durham Live Avenue
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $65; prices may vary by vendor.
Whitevale Christmas Craft Show and Sale
Explore festive baked goods and handcrafted Christmas creations by local artisans at this annual community event.
Where: 405 Whitevale Rd. (Whitevale Community Centre)
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
A Storybook Christmas
Experience a magical holiday adventure at Pickering Museum Village featuring Teddy’s enchanting new tale for 2024. Enjoy festive activities, treats, crafts, trivia, music and a special visit from Santa!
Where: 3550 Greenwood Rd. (Pickering Museum Village)
When: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Cost: $11.40 + tax (Adults), $9.60 + tax (Seniors 65+), $7.30 + tax (Children 3–17), Free (Children under 3)
Ajax:
Durham Winter Festival 2024 (Dec. 7 and Dec. 8)
Celebrate winter with a vibrant multicultural festival featuring festive activities, delicious food, and cozy vibes!
Where: 180 Church St. N. (Pickering High School – Cafeteria)
When: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Christmas Fair
Enjoy a festive day with Santa and Mrs. Claus for memorable photos, explore community vendors, and participate in a silent auction. Discover readers, healers and the DLSC crystal cabinet showcasing free giveaway opportunities.
Where: 70 Commercial Ave.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified
Holiday Pop-up Market – Black Queens of Durham Region
Join this vibrant two-day event featuring unique products, food vendors, music, face painting, a photo booth and a dedicated kids’ section, all in the spirit of holiday cheer.
Where: 1955 Audley Rd. (Audley Recreation Centre)
When:
- Dec. 7 —12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Dec. 8—12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
December Holiday Card-Making
Create stunning holiday watercolour cards for your loved ones in a fun, social atmosphere. All materials provided.
Where: 250 Bayly St. W., Unit 7 (Arts on Fire Ajax)
When: 9 – 11 a.m.
Cost: $45
Durham Christmas Market
Celebrate the season at the Durham Christmas Market with handcrafted gifts, holiday decor and delicious seasonal treats from local vendors.
Where: 111 Hunt St., Ajax
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Whitby:
Whitby Santa Claus Parade
Celebrate the holiday spirit with the Whitby Historical Society as they join the annual Santa Claus Parade. Wave to costumed volunteers as they bring festive cheer to the streets of Whitby!
Where: Brock Street, Whitby
When: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Cost: Free
Santa Shuffle Fun Run & Elf Walk 2024
Join this annual festive event to support The Salvation Army’s vital work in helping vulnerable Canadians. Participate in a 5K run or an Elf Walk and contribute to a meaningful cause while spreading holiday cheer.
Where: 55 Gordon St. (The Abilities Centre)
When: Start time 10 a.m.
Cost: $50.81 (Individual), $228.84 (Family Team of 6 – Captain), $379.90 (Group of 10 – Captain)\
Oshawa:
Optimist Club of Oshawa Breakfast with Santa
Enjoy a morning filled with pancakes, crafts, games and a visit from Santa Claus! Don’t forget your camera for a photo op and a chance to win door prizes.
Where: 475 Salisbury St. (Optimist Club of Oshawa)
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cost: $0 – $11.98
An Evening of Lamplight
Explore the historic homes illuminated by oil lamps, enjoy exhibits, visit with Mother Christmas, and shop for unique Oshawa gifts. Entertainment provided by the Oshawa Civic Band.
Where: 1450 Simcoe St. S. (Oshawa Museum)
When: 6 – 8 p.m.
Cost: $5 per person (Free for Oshawa Historical Society members)
Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Experience the captivating tale of faith and forgiveness in this timeless musical as Joseph’s journey unfolds with humour, wit, and vibrant storytelling.
Where: 62 Russett Ave. (Oshawa Little Theatre)
When: 2 p.m.
Cost: $30 – $40 (including fees)
Happy Howlidays Hosted by the Diraddo Team
Join the 6th Annual Happy Howlidays Pawp-Up for a festive celebration featuring photos with Santa, homemade dog treats, holiday toys and more. Donations are welcome to support medical needs for shelter animals.
Where: 921 Grandview St. N. ( Harmony Valley Dog Park)
When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, 12 – 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
The Outdoor Gallery
Step into a festive outdoor wonderland with The Outdoor Gallery, featuring hand-painted photo opportunities crafted by Santa himself. This magical experience allows families to explore and capture memorable photos during a 30-minute session. Don’t forget your camera or cellphone and bring a blanket for kids to sit on while enjoying the outdoor displays.
Where: 4405 Ritson Rd. N.—Santa’s Cottage
Time: Various times (registration required)
Cost:
- $55 (+HST) for up to 4 people (adults or children)
- Additional visitors: $13.75 (+HST) per person (payable at the door); children under 1 year free
Classic Holiday Market (Nov. 23–Dec. 15)
Support local small businesses at the 9th annual Classic Holiday Market, hosted at the Oshawa Centre’s upper level in the old Sears building. Enjoy freshly brewed beverages, sweets from local bakers, live music, guest appearances and more as you browse a wide variety of vendors offering unique, handmade, and locally produced goods.
Where: 419 King St. W., —Oshawa Centre (upper level, old Sears building)
Time:
- Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Sundays: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Cost:
- $5 per event at the door
- $10 for access to all eight market days, including a free swag bag (while supplies last)
- Free admission for kids under 14
December 8
Pickering:
The Art of Andy Donato
Discover original works by renowned editorial cartoonist Andy Donato, including his “Bent Realism” style paintings. Attend the Artist Talk on Saturday, moderated by Susan Philips, followed by a Q&A and meet-and-greet.
Where: 475 Whitevale Rd. (Whitevale Art and Culture Centre)
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (artist talk at 2 p.m.)
Cost: Free
Oshawa:
Concert to Feed the Need Durham
Enjoy a diverse lineup of artists from across the Durham region at this 7th annual concert, supporting Feed the Need in Durham. Presented by the Rotary Clubs of Durham.
Where: 39 King St. E. (The Biltmore Theatre)
When: Doors open at 1:30 p.m., Show at 2 p.m.
Cost: $30 per person
—Cover photo via website @whitbysantaclausparade.ca
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