This is your guide to Belleville Ontario at Christmas. Located just 2 hours from Toronto and 1 hour from Kingston, Belleville is a charming destination along the Bay of Quinte that comes alive during the holiday season. While it’s known for its vibrant downtown and scenic waterfront, did you know that Belleville transforms into a festive wonderland every Christmas? This curated guide features my top picks for what to do, where to eat, and where to stay to help you plan the perfect holiday getaway.
Looking for the perfect place to experience the magic of the holidays? Belleville, Ontario, transforms into a winter wonderland every Christmas season, offering something special for everyone. From twinkling lights and charming holiday markets to cozy cafes and festive events, this picturesque city along the Bay of Quinte is the ultimate destination for a Christmas getaway. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a day trip, Belleville is packed with holiday cheer, making it an unforgettable stop on your holiday itinerary.
Keep reading for the best things to do in Belleville at Christmas, including must-see events, local eatery, and top places to stay during the holiday season. Plan your festive adventure today and make this holiday one to remember!
YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR VISITING BELLEVILLE ONTARIO AT CHRISTMAS
What to know before visiting Belleville
- Belleville is situated along the Bay of Quinte on the northeastern shore of Lake Ontario. With a population of approximately 55,000 residents, it serves as a key hub for the Quinte region.
- Established in 1816, Belleville was named after Lady Arabella Gore, wife of Sir Francis Gore, the Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada at the time. Its early history was shaped by Loyalist settlers and its strategic location as a trading post.
- In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Belleville was known as the “Cheese Capital of Canada,” with several cheese factories operating in the area. Today, the city celebrates this heritage with local dairies and specialty shops offering artisanal cheeses.
- Belleville’s waterfront offers stunning views and access to the Bay of Quinte, a renowned spot for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. The bay is famous for its walleye fishing, attracting anglers from across North America.
Top Activities in Belleville Ontario at Christmas
Step Back in Time at Glanmore House
Experience the warmth and elegance of a Victorian Christmas at the historic Glanmore National Historic Site, one of Belleville’s architectural treasures. Built in 1882, Glanmore House was originally the residence of wealthy businessman William H. Gibson and his family. The house’s unique architecture combines elements of the Second Empire style with intricate Victorian detailing, making it one of the finest examples of 19th-century design in Ontario.
Glanmore House’s history is just as captivating as its architecture. After serving as a private residence for several decades, it was turned into a museum in 1976, preserving the building’s heritage and making it a valuable part of Belleville’s cultural landscape. Seasonal exhibits at the museum provide fascinating insights into the origins of Christmas traditions, and visitors can enjoy a stroll through the rooms, imagining what life was like in the late 1800s.
During the holiday season, the house is beautifully decorated to reflect how Christmas would have been celebrated during the Victorian era. Visitors can marvel at the period-specific decorations, from garlands and ribbons to the towering Christmas tree, which is a centerpiece of the seasonal display. The mansion’s interior showcases antique furniture, original artwork, and elegant touches that offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the affluent families who once called it home.
Read More // For a deeper dive into the fascinating history and holiday magic of Glanmore House, check out my blog post on everything you need to know about this stunning Victorian-era landmark.
THE DETAILS
Price | 8$ per adult, 6.50$ for adults over 55 and students, 4.50$ for children from 10 to 5, and free for children under 5)
When | Open every day expect on Mondays. Check their website to see the hours of operations.
Website | You can check their website here.
Get in the Holiday Spirit at the Enchanted Holiday Market
Located in the heart of downtown Belleville, the Enchanted Holiday Market is a festive experience that brings the community together and offers unique holiday shopping. Running until December 15th, 2024 this outdoor market features a charming collection of local vendors offering everything from handmade gifts to seasonal treats.
Throughout the weekends, carolers can also be found spreading holiday cheer around the downtown core, singing festive songs and creating a joyful atmosphere. Their renditions of classic Christmas carols add a special touch to the market and make strolling through downtown feel even more magical.
One of the highlights of the market is the free horse-drawn carriage rides that take visitors on a magical tour of downtown Belleville. As you glide through the streets, you’ll be immersed in the holiday spirit, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations. It’s a perfect way to see the sights and enjoy the charm of Belleville’s historic downtown.
And what would a Christmas market be without a visit from Santa Claus? He can often be found at the Enchanted Holiday Market, ready to hear the holiday wishes of children (and adults!) alike. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the jolly old man himself for a keepsake of your visit.
THE DETAILS
Price | Free
When | The market is open on select evenings and weekends, with events like the carriage rides and carolers taking place on weekends. Check the city’s events page for exact times.
Website | You can check all the details here.
Marvel at the Festival of Lights
No Christmas visit to Belleville would be complete without a trip to Jane Forrester Park for the Festival of Lights. This beloved annual tradition transforms the park into a dazzling wonderland with over 60 holiday-themed displays illuminated by thousands of lights. From whimsical scenes featuring Santa and his reindeer to festive snowflakes and glowing trees, the displays are a feast for the eyes.
The Festival of Lights officially kicks off in late November with a lighting ceremony, complete with music and community festivities. Visitors can drive through the park for a leisurely tour or park and explore on foot for a closer look at the intricate displays. The scenic waterfront location adds to the magic, with the shimmering Bay of Quinte as a backdrop.
Grab a Coffee at Benji’s Coffee Bar
After strolling through the Enchanted Holiday Market and enjoying the festive atmosphere, take a moment to warm up at Benji’s Coffee Bar, a cozy and popular spot in downtown Belleville. During the Christmas season, Benji’s is beautifully decked out with seasonal décor, transforming it into a festive haven perfect for enjoying a hot beverage.
Whether you’re craving a classic coffee, a warm spiced holiday drink, or a decadent hot chocolate, Benji’s has you covered. Their friendly staff serves up locally roasted coffee in a welcoming environment, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the season. It’s also a great spot to recharge before continuing your exploration of downtown Belleville’s holiday festivities.
THE DETAILS
Details | Benji’s Coffee Bar is located in downtown Belleville just behind City Hall in the Market Area and is open daily, with special holiday drinks available throughout the season
Website | You can find them here.
Other Things to Do Around Belleville
Go for a nature walk at H.R. Frink Conservation Area
Located just outside of Belleville, H.R. Frink Conservation Area is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 200 acres, this scenic conservation area is managed by the Quinte Conservation Authority and offers a diverse landscape that includes forests, wetlands, and meadows—making it an ideal destination for year-round outdoor activities.
The conservation area is named after H.R. Frink, a local businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the region’s environmental preservation. The property was originally purchased in the early 1970s by the Quinte Conservation Authority as part of a larger initiative to protect the area’s natural habitats and provide recreational opportunities to the public. Over the years, the area has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.
The well-marked trails offer various levels of difficulty, making it a great place for both beginners and more experienced outdoor adventurers. In addition to winter activities, the conservation area is home to diverse wildlife, including birds, deer, and other small mammals, making it an excellent spot for nature photography and birdwatching.
THE DETAILS
Price | 6$ per car for the parking.
Details | The park is open year-round, and parking is available on-site. Trails are typically well-maintained, though it’s always a good idea to check the conditions before heading out in winter.
Website | You can find all the information here.
Where to Eat in Belleville?
Benji’s Coffee Bar | A cozy spot in downtown Belleville, perfect for sipping handcrafted coffee in a festive atmosphere.
Brake Room | A trendy café offering a mix of delicious coffee, light bites, and a relaxed, vintage vibe (in a bike repair shop!)
Tropical Blend | A vibrant, Caribbean-inspired café serving up fresh smoothies, wraps, and coffee with a tropical twist.
The Kafana | A unique Balkan-inspired eatery offering hearty dishes and warm hospitality in a relaxed, intimate setting.
The Lark | A charming restaurant with a focus on farm-to-table dining, offering creative dishes made with local ingredients.
Read More // Craving some delicious local bites? Head over to my blog post for the ultimate guide on where to eat in Belleville, featuring the best spots to satisfy every craving!
Where to stay in Belleville?
You know I love to find the most unique and beautiful stays for your visits across Ontario, and Belleville did not disapoint.
For a truly unique and stylish stay in Belleville, Loft on St. Paul is the perfect option. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, this boutique loft offers modern comfort with historic charm. Located in the heart of downtown Belleville, it provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
The building, formerly St. Paul’s Anglican Church, was constructed in 1878 and has been beautifully transformed into a stunning loft space. The church was repurposed into an Airbnb after being closed in 2017, maintaining its rich history while incorporating new elements like a grand piano and other design features inspired by its original purpose. Located in Belleville’s Foster Ward, the Loft on St. Paul provides guests with a one-of-a-kind experience, combining the charm of the old with the convenience of contemporary living. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of comfort and history, with close proximity to local attractions and the waterfront.
Inside, you will find a beautifully renovated kitchen with a large living room. The center piece for this space is the grand piano located on the stage. This space is perfect for musicians and music lovers. When it is not rented as an Airbnb, the Loft is often used as a concert venue. Upstairs, you’ll find the Loft with a queen bed and a view that overlooks the whole place.
The Loft also offer a complete indoor-outdoor experience with large patio doors that leads to a beautiful private backyards with a large dinning table, an outdoor kitchen, a jacuzzi and a private second bedroom with bunk beds.
Read More // Read the full review of my stay at the Loft on St Paul here.
THE DETAILS
* P.S. This adventure was part of a collab with Bay of Quinte Tourism and Loft on St Paul but all opinions (and obsessions) are 100% mine! For more ideas of thing to do in the Bay of Quinte this Winter right here!
READ THESE BEFORE VISITING MORE OF ONTARIO
ONTARIO GUIDES | The Ultimate Weekend in Beaver Valley ; The Best In and Around Niagara Falls : A Complete Guide; How to spend the Perfect Weekend in Bracebridge
ONTARIO TOP 10 | Top 11 Best Lookouts in Ontario
WHERE TO STAY IN ONTARIO | Tiny Stays: A Unique Stay in Prince Edward County; Spend the night with Alpacas at Haute Goat Farm; Loft on St Paul: The Best Boutique Stay in Belleville
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The ultimate Southwest USA road trip you NEED to take a least once in your life 🚗✨
📍 California | Nevada | Utah | Arizona – 4 states, 8 epic stops, and some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the US. If you’ve been dreaming of a bucket-list road trip, this is it!
Why This Road Trip is a Must-Do
✔️ Easy flight from Toronto – I flew from Toronto to Las Vegas for under $300 with Air Canada! Renting a car from Vegas makes it super convenient.
✔️ Unreal landscapes – Think towering red rocks, deep canyons, hidden arches, and glowing sunsets that feel straight out of a movie.
✔️ Best time to go – Spring and fall offer perfect weather. Winter is amazing for fewer crowds (and Bryce Canyon with snow? INSANE ❄️).
🚗 Road Trip Tips to Know Before You Go
📌 Get the America the Beautiful Pass – Saves money if you’re hitting 3+ national parks!
📌 Gas up when you can – Some stretches have no gas stations for miles.
📌 Download offline maps – No service in many parks! Google Maps or AllTrails will save you.
📌 Pack layers & water – Even the desert gets cold at night.
This trip took me through 8 epic stops, including Death Valley, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Horseshoe Bend, and Sedona—each more incredible than the last.
📍 Save this post for later & drop a 🔥 in the comments if this trip is on your list!
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#SouthwestRoadTrip #USARoadTrip #EpicRoadTrip #BucketListTravel #NationalParksUSA #HikingAdventures #DesertVibes #ExploreMore #TravelUSA #ScenicDrives #OutdoorAdventure #wanderlust
The Grotto in winter is a completely different experience—here’s why you NEED to see it before the season ends! ❄️
This is one of the most breathtaking winter hikes in Ontario, and unlike summer, you don’t need a reservation to visit! No crowds, no rush—just icy-blue water, frozen cliffs, and peaceful snow-covered trails. 🌊✨
What you need to know before going:
✔️ No reservations required in winter (huge perk!)
✔️ No snowshoes needed unless you plan to explore off-trail
✔️ Microspikes are highly recommended—some sections get very icy!
✔️ Dress in layers—it’s colder near the water
✔️ Park at Cyprus Lake lot (fees still apply) and take the 30-40 min trail to The Grotto
Why visit in winter?
Because The Grotto looks unreal when it’s covered in snow. ❄️ The turquoise water is even more vibrant, the cliffs turn into frozen sculptures, and the quiet trails make it feel like a hidden gem.
⚠️ Important: The descent to Indian Cove Beach can be steep and icy, so be extra cautious or enjoy the view from above!
Would you hike this in winter? Let me know in the comments! 👇🏽
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#TheGrotto #BrucePeninsula #OntarioHiking #WinterHiking #HikingOntario #DiscoverON #ExploreCanada #WinterAdventures #HikingCanada
Everyone talks about Italian Summer… but have you ever considered Italian Winter? ❄️✨”
If you think Italy is only worth visiting in the summer, think again. I spent two months (January–March) exploring Italy in the winter, and honestly? It might be the best travel decision I’ve ever made. Here’s why:
1️⃣ Mild Winter Weather ☀️ – No scorching heat, just comfortable, sunny days (12-18°C). Sure, there’s some rain, but I’d take this over 40°C summer heat any day.
2️⃣ Fewer Crowds 👭🏻 – Italy is never empty, but winter means WAY fewer tourists. Florence still had its buzz, but I never had to wait in long lines, and weekdays even felt quiet.
3️⃣ Cheaper Travel Costs 💰 – I was shocked at how much cheaper everything is. Many attractions have off-season pricing, like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence (12€ in winter vs. 25€ in summer)—which means big savings on tickets!
4️⃣ Everything’s Still Open 🏛️ – I thought winter meant tons of closures, but nope! All the major sights were open, just with slightly shorter hours. The only thing I missed? A boat tour in Cinque Terre (but I’ll survive 😭).
✨ Moral of the story? Italy in winter is absolutely worth it. ✨
So tell me—have I convinced you to visit Italy in the off-season? Or do you still prefer the summer rush? Drop your thoughts below! ⬇️
📌 SAVE & SHARE this if you’re planning a trip to Italy! 🇮🇹
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#ItalyTravel #WinterInItaly #ItalyInWinter #VisitItaly #OffSeasonTravel
Looking for the ultimate guide to winter in Kingston, Ontario? ❄️
As a local who’s lived here for 8 years, I’m sharing my favorite spots to make the most of the season. From cozy coffee shops and delicious foodie finds to outdoor activities and the perfect place to spend the night, these are the best things to do in Kingston this winter.
Start your day warming up at one of Kingston’s best coffee shops, enjoy a meal at my favorite local restaurants, and embrace the season with snowy hikes or a skate at Market Square. These are places I know and love and ones that make winter in Kingston feel magical.
Save this post to plan your winter adventures in Kingston, and swipe through to find out why this city is the perfect winter destination.
Let me know in the comments—what’s your go-to Kingston spot for winter fun?
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#KingstonOntario #YGK, #VisitKingston #WinterInKingston #ThingsToDoInKingston #OntarioAdventures
Planning your next Ontario getaway? This cozy stay in Prince Edward County is the perfect escape! ✨
In 2025, we’re not chasing destinations—we’re chasing energy.
And if you’re looking for a getaway that adapts to whatever mood you’re in, @pearadiseonwestlake in Wellington, Prince Edward County is it.
🏡 A perfect Airbnb for:
✔️ Cozy winter retreats (hello, reading nook & fireplace vibes)
✔️ Romantic getaways for couples
✔️ Relaxing summer escapes by the lake & pool
✔️ Family-friendly stays with a playroom & spacious common areas
Located right by West Lake, this stay is ideal for exploring Prince Edward County wineries, cafés, and scenic spots—or just staying in and enjoying a slower pace.
✨ Whether you want to unwind, reconnect, or explore PEC, this Airbnb fits every vibe.
📍 Who would be all in on this kind of trip? Tag them below or send this their way! 💫
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[Invited stay at Pearadise on West Lake]
#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #OntarioTravel #VisitPEC #ontariogetaways
