With its 19th-century storefronts, heritage homes and the Varley Art Gallery, Main Street Unionville looks like a Christmas card, and it has been a filming location for holiday movies. It’s one of the prettiest places near Toronto for a festive stroll.
Unionville’s Christmas celebration
Each December, Main Street Unionville hosts a free Christmas celebration. In 2025 it ran on Saturday, December 6 from 2 to 7 p.m., with:
- Entertainment, carollers and Santa sightings along Main Street
- A free ornament-making workshop at the Varley Art Gallery
- A tree lighting with Santa at 6 p.m., held with the City of Markham
- Carolling and a light show on Main Street
- Free evening skating at Crosby Community Centre
There was no candlelight parade in 2025 because of the Main Street restoration work. Watch for 2026 details, usually announced in November.
What to do in Unionville
- Browse the shops and galleries in the historic buildings.
- Visit the Varley Art Gallery of Markham.
- Warm up in a café or have dinner at one of Main Street’s restaurants.
- Walk to Toogood Pond for a winter walk.
A perfect afternoon in Unionville
- Arrive mid-afternoon and park in one of the municipal lots near Main Street, or take transit to Unionville GO station.
- Browse the boutiques along Main Street: gift shops, galleries, home decor and fashion.
- Visit the Varley Art Gallery, named for Group of Seven painter Frederick Varley, who lived in Unionville.
- Walk to Toogood Pond for a winter stroll around the water.
- Warm up in a café or pub along Main Street.
- Stay for the lights as the decorations glow after dusk.
On the night of the Christmas celebration, plan to arrive early and stay through the tree lighting.
Why Unionville feels like a movie set
Unionville’s well-preserved 19th-century buildings, small-town scale and tree-lined Main Street have made it a popular filming location. Main Street has been closed to through traffic during some events, making it easy to wander. In December, wreaths, garlands and white lights complete the picture.
Unionville for families
- Santa sightings during the Christmas celebration.
- Ornament-making workshops for kids at the Varley Art Gallery during the celebration.
- Skating on local rinks nearby, weather permitting.
- Hot chocolate and treats from Main Street cafés.
Shopping and dining
Main Street’s independent shops are great for unique gifts, and the area’s restaurants range from cozy pubs to international cuisine. Nearby, Markville Mall and Pacific Mall add more shopping options. See Markham Christmas events.
Unionville at Christmas: FAQ
When is Unionville’s Christmas celebration in 2026? It’s usually on a Saturday in early December. Watch for the 2026 date from the Unionville BIA and the City of Markham.
Is the event free? Yes, the celebration is free to attend.
Pair it with Markham
Main Street Markham holds its Festival of Lights on November 27 and Santa Claus Parade on November 28. Markham Christmas events
Getting there
Unionville GO station on the Stouffville line is a short walk from Main Street. By car, it’s about 40 minutes from downtown Toronto.
More: Christmas in York Region · Christmas day trips from Toronto
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