Clarington, at the eastern edge of the GTA, has three Santa parades, a stop on the CPKC Holiday Train and one of the area’s best cut-your-own tree farms.
CPKC Holiday Train in Bowmanville
Sunday, November 29, 2026 · 2 – 2:30 p.m. · Scugog Road and Wellington Street
A free concert from the lit-up train. Bring a food bank donation. CPKC Holiday Train
Santa Claus parades
- Bowmanville: a late-morning parade along King Street, usually in mid-November
- Newcastle: an evening parade downtown, usually in mid-November
- Courtice: a midday parade on Nash Road, usually in early December
Watch the Municipality of Clarington for 2026 dates. Durham parades
Prestonvale Tree Farms
Just east of Oshawa in Courtice, Prestonvale offers cut-your-own fraser, balsam, spruce and pine, with free shaking and baling and saws provided. It’s cash only and open select November days, then daily in December until Christmas Eve. Christmas tree farms
About Clarington
Clarington is a municipality at the eastern edge of the GTA in Durham Region, made up of the historic towns of Bowmanville, Newcastle and Courtice plus rural hamlets and farmland. Bowmanville’s downtown along King Street has heritage buildings, independent shops and restaurants, while Newcastle offers a small-village feel. It’s a great destination for families who want a country Christmas within an hour of Toronto.
More holiday ideas in Clarington
- Shop downtown Bowmanville for local gifts and holiday treats.
- Walk the Waterfront Trail at Port Darlington and Bond Head for lake views.
- Skate at outdoor rinks when the weather allows.
- Find Santa at the parades and community events.
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CPKC Holiday Train in Bowmanville – Toronto Christmas
A Clarington Christmas Day
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Cut your own tree at a local farm |
| Lunch | Downtown Bowmanville |
| Afternoon | The CPKC Holiday Train (November 29) or a Santa parade |
| Evening | Dinner and holiday lights in town |
Tree farm tips
- Arrive early on weekends; the best trees go fast.
- Bring gloves, boots and a tape measure.
- Check opening dates and payment options on the farm’s website.
- Ask about netting and tying the tree to your car.
See Christmas tree farms near Toronto.
Christmas in Clarington: FAQ
When does the CPKC Holiday Train stop in Bowmanville in 2026? Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 2 to 2:30 p.m.
How far is Clarington from Toronto? About an hour by car via Highway 401.
More: Durham Santa Claus parades · Christmas in Durham Region
Getting there
Clarington is about an hour from downtown Toronto via Highway 401.
