7 places in Canada doing Christmas right

There’s no doubt Canadians love their Christmas celebrations and will pull out all the stops for a great experience. From amazing light displays to traditional markets and giant Christmas trees, here are 7 places in Canada where you’ll find Christmas being taken to a whole new level. [Image credit: iStock.com/stockstudioX]

Every December, the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver puts on a truly amazing show, with hundreds of thousands of lights festooning the suspension bridge over the Capilano River, as well as the towering Douglas fir trees lining the canyon. The impressive setting, the breathtaking heights, a host of fun kids’ activities, a live caroling band, and the unbridled Christmas excitement in the air make Canyon Lights a true Christmas treasure! [Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/Capilano Suspension Bridge Park]

The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is arguably the epicentre of all things Christmas in the city, and is not to be missed! The market’s stalls are bursting with everything from Christmas decorations to unique crafts, winter accessories and lots of delicious snacks. In fact, for some, the food is one of the biggest draws – pretzels, Chimney Stax, giant turkey legs, tornado potatoes and much more! Daily musical performances, caroling and an enchanting carousel ride add to the festive atmosphere. [Photo courtesy of the Toronto Christmas Market]

Gliding around the outdoor Natrel Skating Rink at Montreal’s Old Port, with its cheerful lights and outdoor fireplaces, is a wonderful holiday experience. What takes it to the next level is the pyrotechnics display put on for four Saturdays in December and January, accompanied by music from your favourite animated films. Go for a skate, enjoy the show and stop in at the Bonsecours Bistro for a snack to warm you up. [Image credit: iStock.com/MartinR35]

Every year concert halls across the country fill up with crowds eager to take in performances of The Nutcracker ballet. This timeless classic enthralls kids and adults alike with its story of Christmas intrigue and fantasy. And there’s no better place to see it than in Winnipeg, where the country’s premier ballet company, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, puts on a show with some uniquely Canadian elements, all accompanied by a live orchestra. A magical experience! [Image credit: iStock.com/arinahabich]

No, we’re not talking about just any Christmas lights here, but a spectacular light show in the nation’s capital, set against the Parliament Hill buildings. This enchanting performance is now in its 33rd year and draws huge crowds. Before or after the show, make sure you save some time for a walk through nearby Confederation Park to check out the thousands of lights. [Image credit: iStock.com/ChristopheLedent]

Now in its 20th year, Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo is not to be missed. More than 1.5 million lights turn the zoo into a magical Christmas winter wonderland. A variety of activity stations add to the fun, including a mobile escape room, arts and crafts, and the chance to learn about animal hibernation. [Image courtesy of Calgary Zoo]

While there are Christmas parades all over Canada every year, there’s something special about the one in St. John’s. With more than 5,000 participants and 60,000 spectators, the annual procession through downtown, and in particular along the colorful buildings of Water Street, makes for a truly festive day! Canada Post workers collect letters to Santa all along the route, and the big guy himself makes an airborne appearance by helicopter to wave at all in attendance. [Image credit: iStock.com/LazingBee]