Your Guide to the Best Holiday Markets in Lanark County
The Magic of the Holidays in Lanark County
There is something special about the holidays in Lanark County. Maybe it is the way our small towns sparkle with lights or how you can still find that handmade, one-of-a-kind gift from a local artisan. Whether you already live here or are thinking about making Lanark County your next home, the holiday season is the perfect time to explore what makes this community so warm and welcoming.
Here are a few of my favourite holiday markets happening across the county this season. Each one offers its own local charm, perfect for a festive day out with friends or family.
Light Up the Night Christmas Craft Fair
Date: Early December (check the website for the 2026 date)
Location: Mill Street, Almonte, ON
Website: Mississippi Mills Tourism – Light Up the Night
Almonte transforms into a true Christmas village every December with its Light Up the Night celebration. Alongside the music and tree lighting, you will find a craft fair filled with local makers, holiday treats, and plenty of small-town cheer.
Local Tip:
Arrive early to grab parking close to Mill Street, then plan to stay for the tree lighting and fireworks after the market. Stop into one of Almonte’s cozy cafés for a hot chocolate before strolling the craft stalls.
Lanark Christmas Pop-Up Market
Date: Early December (check the website for the 2026 date)
Location: Downtown Lanark Village, ON
Website: Discover Lanark
This one-day market is a highlight for anyone who loves supporting local. Hosted in the heart of Lanark Village, it features handcrafted goods, baked treats, and holiday décor from artisans and small businesses across the county. It is a relaxed, friendly event that captures what small-town Christmas is all about.
Local Tip:
Bring cash and reusable bags since some vendors are local hobby makers who may not take cards. If you are making a day of it, stop by nearby bakeries or cafés for lunch after the market.
Home for the Holidays at Perth Museum
Dates: Through the holiday season (check the website for 2026 dates)
Location: 11 Gore Street East, Perth, ON
Website: Town of Perth – Festivals & Events
The Perth Museum offers a quieter, more nostalgic kind of holiday experience. Their Home for the Holidays exhibit runs for over a month and includes holiday décor, locally made gifts, and themed displays. It is a beautiful way to step back in time and enjoy Perth’s historic charm while finding something special for the season.
Local Tip:
Pair your visit with a walk through downtown Perth. The shops along Gore Street are beautifully decorated and many offer unique, locally made products. If you are house-hunting, it is a great time to get a feel for this walkable, heritage-rich community.
If visiting Perth sparks thoughts of a move, you might enjoy my article on When Is It Time to Move? 6 Signs It’s Time to Find a New Home. It’s a helpful read if you’re beginning to wonder whether your current home still fits your lifestyle.
Christmas on the Clyde (Lanark & District Civitan Club)
Date: Early December (check the website for the 2026 date)
Location: Lanark & District Civitan Club, 2144 Pine Grove Road, Lanark, ON
Website: Lanark Civitan Club – Christmas on the Clyde
This annual event is a classic holiday market hosted indoors at the Lanark Civitan Club. Expect local vendors, handmade crafts, baked goods, and festive entertainment. It is one of those cozy, community-run markets where you will probably bump into a few familiar faces and walk away with something made right here in Lanark County.
Local Tip:
Make this your main stop for gift shopping in early December. Many of the vendors are local artisans who only sell at this event. Afterward, grab a warm drink at Clyde Forks or explore the scenic backroads that make Lanark County so charming in winter.
General Tips for Visiting Holiday Markets
- Plan your route ahead: Many of these towns host their markets on the same weekend, so map out which ones you want to visit first.
- Dress warmly: Even indoor events might involve waiting outside or walking between venues.
- Bring cash: Some vendors may not have debit or credit machines.
- Shop early: The best handmade gifts and baked goods often sell out within the first few hours.
- Support local: Chat with the artisans, take their business cards, and follow them on social media to discover more of their work year-round.
- There are great local hangouts as well around Lanark County. You can grab a bite or have some coffee or tea while taking a break from your shopping.
Why Locals Love Lanark County During the Holidays
Lanark County’s holiday markets are about more than just shopping. They are a celebration of creativity, community, and small-town kindness. People come for the gifts but stay for the warm conversations, live music, and the sense of connection that fills each event.
If you are thinking about moving here, visiting during the holidays gives you a real sense of what life feels like year-round. Friendly neighbours, vibrant small businesses, and a shared love of local traditions make this area special in every season.
So grab your mittens, fill your travel mug with something warm, and enjoy the best of Lanark County this holiday season. You might just find your new favourite holiday tradition — or even your new hometown.
About the author
Lynn Vardy, REALTOR®
I have 19+ years in real estate and work with RE/MAX Boardwalk Realty. I help families in Carleton Place, Lanark County, Kanata and Stittsville buy and sell through big life changes, like downsizing, divorce and estate sales. I have been through some of these moves with my own family, so I know it is about much more than the house.
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