Enchanting Stratford the HOLIDAY CHARM of
The holidays are upon us and it really is the most wonderful time of the year. It may be a deeply rooted faith, a love of gift-giving or just enjoying this special time of year to spend with loved ones and show gratitude for the blessings in your life.
But it's also about the little things; the smell of cinnamon and pine needles and freshly baked pastries paired with the indescribable feeling of witnessing the season's first snowfall. Stratford encompasses this joy like no other place. While Stratford may be well known for its Shakespearean references and world-class theatrearts festival, when the temperature drops and the holiday season approaches, it is the ultimate destination for holiday gifting.
Bundle up and take a stroll down Ontario Street for some of the season's best gift-giving inspiration, from specialty ornaments to artisanal jams and locally distilled liqueur, there is truly something for everyone.
Stop and grab a hot cocoa along the way and roam in and out of Bradshaws or Watson's Chelsea Bazaar to find some of the most unique kitchen gadgets for the foodie in your life. If one-of-a-kind home décor items are on your wish list, Wills & Prior is the can't-miss destination for très chic new and vintage décor.
Shopping in Stratford is a treat for both the gift-giver and receiver – taking in the beautifully decorated store fronts, the lights and the events happening this holiday season.
The Stratford Christmas Trail captures the spirit of giving and the joy of shopping locally. Running now through December 20th, you can purchase your pass for $30 at Stratford Tourism where you'll receive a map and six vouchers to exchange at any of the 27 participating shops.
Each participating location has chosen a fabulous stocking stuffer that you can redeem one of your six tickets for. Each destination on the trail has some of the most unique and exciting gifts including hand-made greeting cards, Christmas blend coffee, fine shave cream and treats for your fur babies.
Cathy Rehberg, Marketing Manager, Stratford Tourism Alliance, recommends purchasing tickets to the dramatic reading of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol at Festival Theatre. “A Christmas Carol is a classic for so many people and to hear it read aloud by so many talented actors is a real treat”.
The show is Friday, December 1st at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are for sale at the Stratford Festival Box Office or online at stratfordfestival.ca/christmas-carol
If you're looking for more familyoriented fun, Rehberg suggests The Great Gingerbread House Build, happening on November 26th. “It's a fun afternoon at The Bruce Hotel, which is such a beautiful property and of course, you get to take home the gingerbread house that you build and decorate!”
For all the best and brightest holiday events taking place in Stratford this Christmas season, visit online: www.visitstratford.ca