Christmas in Port Colborne

'Tis the Season for hot cocoa, snowmen, carolers and rosy cheeks. With Christmas just around the corner, we're busy planning a few activities that are sure to delight. Stay tuned for more information on upcoming events and activities. 

Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest!

The City of Port Colborne is inviting local elementary school students to get creative for the 2026 Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest!

Students are encouraged to design a festive Christmas card, with the winning artwork featured as the official 2026 Mayor’s Christmas Card and shared throughout the community and beyond.

The winning artist will also be invited to join the City of Port Colborne’s float in this year’s Lighted Santa Claus Parade.

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A hand holding a colourful Christmas card with a festive drawing in front of a brick wall.


Lighted Santa Claus Parade

The City of Port Colborne’s Lighted Santa Claus Parade returns to the downtown core on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season as local businesses, community groups, schools and organizations light up downtown with festive floats, dazzling displays and holiday spirit.

Bring your family and friends, bundle up and enjoy this much-loved Port Colborne tradition! After the parade, visit the City’s Facebook page to vote for your favourite entry in the People’s Choice Awards.

Don't forget to bring a non-perishable food donation in support of Port Cares.

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Brightly lit parade float with Santa and reindeer, surrounded by a crowd at night.


Holiday Hustle Elf Run

 
Get into the holiday spirit with a little festive fun before the Lighted Santa Claus Parade!
The YMCA of Niagara is hosting the 2026 Holiday Hustle Elf Run, a festive 3K through downtown Port Colborne, and the City is excited to support this fun community event!
 
  • Saturday, December 5
  • 5:30 p.m. start
  • Port Colborne High School, 211 Elgin St.
Dress up in your favourite holiday gear, gather your friends and family, and hit the streets for a little pre-parade fun! The first 100 registrants will receive a festive elf hat.
Make a night of it and stick around for the Lighted Santa Claus Parade!
 
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Holiday Hustle Elf Run advertisement with festive graphics and cheerful participants.

Tug Boat Santa

Santa will once again arrive in true marine fashion, by tugboat at 1 p.m. (Seaway traffic pending) on Saturday, December 5, 2026.

Stop by West Street (near the Pilot House) to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus and then join them at The Guild Hall (72 Charlotte Street) for photos, hot chocolate and crafts.    

This event is presented by the Downtown Port Colborne BIA. 

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Santa Claus waves from a boat while a person stands beside, both smiling near water.

All Hands on Deck Holiday Drive

Help support local organizations this holiday season through the City of Port Colborne’s All Hands on Deck Holiday Drive.

Donations of food, toys, books, winter accessories and hygiene products will be collected at City facilities until Wednesday, December 16, 2026, in support of Port Cares.

Non-perishable food donations for Port Cares will also be collected during the Lighted Santa Claus Parade.

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Festive donation box with a large bow beside a decorated Christmas tree.


Grand Old Christmas Festival

The Historical and Marine Museum hosts their Grand Old Christmas Festival the first Sunday of December from 12-4 p.m.

Stay tuned for details on how you can celebrate Christmas the old-fashion way, with traditions we have all come to love, on Sunday, December 6, 2026.

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Santa Claus and a companion greet children seated on a bench in a festive cabin.

Christmas Makers' Market

The Friends of Roselawn invite you to the Christmas Makers’ Market at the Roselawn Centre on Saturday, November 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy free admission and shop for handmade gifts, homemade baked goods and festive finds. Visit with Santa and take a stroll through the beautifully decorated Victorian mansion while enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

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Historic building decorated with festive lights, featuring a welcoming entrance and stairs.