Your Festive Weekend Guide: How to get ready for the Holidays 'Sauga-Style
The festive spirit is upon us in Mississauga. We’ve got holiday events and local favourite spots for food, shopping, and more, all in classic, welcoming Canadian style. Whether you’re searching for that perfect gift, cheering for Santa, or sipping something warm between skates, ‘Sauga is ready to spread some holiday cheer and get you in the festive spirit.
Christmas in the Village: Streetsville
Set your holiday spirit aglow in Streetsville on Friday and Saturday with the 10th annual Christmas in the Village, one of Mississauga’s most charming seasonal traditions. Expect horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, and visits and festive photo ops with Santa.
The magical tree lighting ceremony takes place on Friday night at 7:00 p.m. at Queen Street South and Main Street. Plus, take in a magical performance by the Streetsville United Church Choir. You can find more of the Christmas in the Village schedule here.
Also, don’t miss your chance to browse more than 30 vendors offering hand-crafted gifts, sweets, holiday décor and treats. Local businesses open their doors all weekend long for shoppers seeking something unique, so make time for a stroll along the historic streets.
For a sweet snack or comfort food, check out Kate’s Town Talk Bakery—famous for fresh-baked butter tarts made from a cherished family recipe. If you crave cozy vibes, The Tea Room at Robinson Bray House offers classic afternoon tea just steps from the action.
Santa Claus Parade & Festivities at Celebration Square
Saturday, November 22, is the dazzling centrepiece of the weekend, where Celebration Square comes alive starting at 4:00 p.m. with the Light Up the Square festivities. This includes skating on the city’s largest outdoor rink (with skate rentals available), art installations, festive photo ops, face painting, and a glitter bar.
Soul Sublime and SHOUT! The Band set the stage with disco-inspired holiday covers and energetic performances under the twinkling lights to help get everyone dancing.
At 6:00 p.m., the Santa Claus Parade begins, winding through downtown Mississauga—with Santa ready to light the city’s iconic Christmas tree as his float travels through Celebration Square. Don’t miss buskers, interactive bike performances, and the Candy Cane Corner’s food trucks and music for extra fun.
When hunger hits or you need a warming cup of hot chocolate, C Cafe sits right at the edge of Celebration Square’s fountain.
Skating and Warming Up
The outdoor rink at Celebration Square is open for free skating during the event (bring your own skates or rent on-site, weather permitting). For more snacks or perhaps a much-needed rest, seek out some local favourites: Halo Espresso Bar on Hurontario Street for locally roasted coffee and indulgent baked goods, while Studio 89 offers cozy eats with a youth-run community-forward vibe and treats like Chocolate Banana Bread or heartier fare like Chickpea Toona Wrap.
Tips for a Sauga-Style Holiday Weekend
- Parking: Celebration Square and downtown events will have road closures for the parade, so use public transit or nearby lots.
- Best photo spots: Streetsville for historic streets, Celebration Square’s glowing lights, and with Santa’s float during the parade.
- Local shops: Explore Queen St. South in Streetsville for artisan goodies and Square One for bigger brand finds before or after the events.
Step out and enjoy Mississauga’s festive magic, where every street corner and rink sparkles with community warmth and holiday cheer. We’re all ready to welcome you, ‘Sauga-style, this festive holiday season.