Affordable holiday activities to do with friends
Article published on December 2, 2024
With the holiday season right around the corner, you might want to get in the spirit without breaking the bank in the process. Luckily, the exo network offers a variety of affordable, accessible activities to experience the magic of winter. Whether it’s perusing Christmas markets or skating on outdoor rinks surrounded by magical decor, you will be sure to find what you’re looking for among the 14 activities on offer.
Christmas markets
Credits: iledesmoulins.com / Patrick Beaudry
Quebec Christmas markets are enchanting places where holiday magic comes to life. They’re full of illuminated kiosks offering handmade products and local treats like maple fudge, beaver tails, and hot chocolate.
On the North Shore
Terrebonne
When: November 29 to December 15
Where: On the Île-des-Moulins
Website (French only)
L’Assomption
When: November 28 to December 23
Where: Downtown
Website
Joliette
When: November 28 to December 23
Where: Downtown
Website (French only)
Rosemère
When: December 6 to 8
Where: 202 Chemin de la Grande-Côte
Website
Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines
When: December 7 and 8
Where: Centre Jean-Guy-Cardinal, 156 3rd avenue
Website (French only)
Sainte-Thérèse
When: November 28 to December 15
Where: 37 Rue Blainville Ouest
Website (French only)
On the South Shore
Saint-Hyacinthe
When:
- December 6 to 8, 2024 – Creative market
- December 13 to 15, 2024 – Creative and gourmet market
- December 20 to 22, 2024 – Gourmet market
Where: Public market, 1555 Rue des Cascades
Website (French only)
Hudson
When: November 23, 24, and 30, as well as December 1 to 8
Where: Alibi Barn, 422 Rue Main
Website
Mont-Saint-Hilaire
When: December 7 and 8
Where: Manoir Rouville Campbell
Website (French only)
Longueuil
When: November 29 to December 22
Where: Vieux-Longueuil
Website (French only)
Santa Clause parade
For the 26th year running, Santa Clause and his floats will be making their way through the streets of Sainte-Julie. In parallel, parade spectators will be invited to discover the Christmas Village in the old town square, which will be open from 4 PM to 9 PM. Discover on-site activities for all ages!
When: December 7 at 6:00 PM
Where: Vieux Saint-Julie
Website (French only)
Outdoor skating rinks
Credits : iledesmoulins.com
Outdoor skating rinks are an iconic symbol of winter, and they invite us to enjoy the pleasures of the chilly season.
Île-des-Moulins skating rink in Terrebonne
Renowned as one of the most beautiful natural skating rinks in Quebec, the ice at the old locks on Île-des-Moulins in Terrebonne will be open to the public as soon as weather permits. Nestled in a fairytale setting, Étang des Moulins, lined with twinkling lights, offers enchanting sights that are particularly magical after dark.
When: As soon as the ice is 20 cm thick
Where: On the Île-des-Moulins
Website (French only)
Ice rinks on the South Shore
You’ll find several outdoor ice rinks on the exo network. Here are some that are accessible via public transit.
Saint-Constant
Where: 296 Rue Sainte-Catherine
Website (French only)
Saint-Zotique
Where: 461 26th Avenue
Website (French only)
Varennes
Where: 2003 Rue Jacques-Lemoyne
Website (French only)
McMasterville
Where: Gilles-Plante Park, accessible via rue Normandie
Website (French only)
Ice rinks on the North Shore
Saint-Jérôme
Where: 451 Rue Melançon
Website (French only)
Laval
Where: 55 Boulevard Cartier Ouest
Website
Take a picture on Santa Clause’s lap
This is your opportunity to exchange a smile, share a wish, or even whisper your entire gift list in Santa Clause’s ear. Time to capture a precious memory, a picture that will remind you of this moment with your friends.
Where: At the closest mall to you
Plan your trips with our trip planner to see the many route options available to you.
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