Holiday Weekend Guide: 5 Things to Do in PEC Before Christmas

The weeks before Christmas hit different in Prince Edward County. Holiday lights go up, shops get decorated, wineries do special events, and there's this cozy festive energy without the chaos of big-city holiday madness. It's the perfect time for a weekend escape or a day trip if you're local.

Here are 8 things to do in PEC before Christmas that'll get you in the holiday spirit without stressing you out.

1. Festive Winery Tours

Prince Edward County’s wineries generally stay open in winter with cozy tasting rooms and seasonal offerings. For example, Huff Estates (Bloomfield) is open daily (winery 10am–4pm) with a rustic tasting bar and wood-fired pizza. The Grange of PEC (Hillier) runs year-round (tasting room open Mon–Thu 11–5, Fri–Sat 11–8, Sun 10–4).

Where: Most County wineries open in winter. Closson Chase (Hillier) closes Dec 22–Feb, but is open 11–5 daily until Dec.

Why go: Warm up by the fire with holiday-themed pours and gift packs. Many tasting rooms are decorated for the season.

Tips: Reserve ahead for groups or weekends (especially Christmas weekend). Book a driver if you plan tastings. Some wineries offer seasonal menus or mulled wine.

Note: The County’s Wassail (Nov 15–30) is a winery-wide event, for instance, hosts a hot cocoa bar for charity during Wassail. Some wineries also participate in holiday markets and offer gift-wrapping.

2. Holiday-Decorated Main Streets (Wellington, Bloomfield, Picton)

All the County’s villages decorate for the holidays. While decorations aren’t mega-commercial, small towns string lights and wreaths on lampposts and in shop windows to create a festive vibe.

For example, Bloomfield’s annual night parade “fills Main Street with Christmas cheer” with carols and twinkling lights. Likewise, Picton’s Santa parade shuts down Main St. and draws crowds amid holiday décor.

Where to go: Stroll Wellington (Heritage/Mill Streets), Bloomfield (Stanley/Main), and Picton downtown/harbour after dark. Lamppost wreaths, lit storefronts and community displays are typical.

Why go: Enjoy photo-worthy scenes and window shopping in a quaint setting, without the mall rush.

Pro Tip: Wear warm shoes and have hot drinks (cider/hot chocolate) on hand. Many pubs and cafés will be open late to cater to festive strollers.

3. Cozy Staycations (Inns and B&Bs)

PEC’s inns and B&Bs are lovely retreats at Christmas. Popular spots like The Waring House (Picton) and The Drake Devonshire (Wellington) deck their lobbies and restaurants for the season, offering fireplaces and holiday packages. Expect gourmet breakfasts and warm hospitality.

Where to stay: In addition to Waring House and Drake, consider boutique options (e.g. A Town & Country Inn, Westlake Inn, Inn on West) that decorate for the holidays.

Why go: No chores, full pampering – arrive to a lit tree in the lobby and sleep in plush bedding. Many offer special seasonal dinners or spa services.

Booking Tip: Holiday weekends sell out fast. Book as early as possible.

4. Winter Hikes + Fireside Drinks

Brace the cold for outdoor fun, then warm up inside. Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park (near Picton) offers a short trail and a spectacular 60m bluff view over Lake Ontario. The Millennium Trail (along Highway 33) is a gentle, open path by forests and fields. After your walk, head to a cozy spot for hot drinks like Acoustic Grill at Huff Estates if it’s open.

Where to hike: Lake on the Mountain (day-use park, open year-round); local conservation areas or gravel forest trails. Always check trail status (icy patches may exist).

5. Holiday Events & Concerts

Community and arts events abound. Church choirs and schools often stage carol concerts; for example, Macaulay Heritage Park hosts a Holiday Organ Concert (mid-Dec) and "Christmas at Macaulay" events. The Waring House tradition "The Christmas Belles" (dinner + sing-along) is held in early December. Look for Santa Claus parades (Picton, Bloomfield) and festive movie nights.

Why go: Enjoy the local community spirit. Small crowds, live music, and festive performances that feel personal rather than commercial.

Tip: Many events (especially dinners or concerts) have limited capacity. Book early and confirm dates, as venues often fill up.

Additional Tips for a Relaxed Holiday Weekend

Plan flexibly: Many County businesses reduce winter hours. In fact, “winter changes the pace completely so the business hours shift and the whole County slows down”. Several restaurants and shops close on Mondays to Wednesdays even in high season. Always call ahead to confirm holiday hours.

Dress warmly: County evenings are cold (wind off Lake Ontario makes it chillier than you might expect). Layer up and wear waterproof boots for outdoor activities.

Travel midweek or off-peak: If crowds bother you, aim for Friday evening or Sunday; Saturday afternoons tend to be busiest.

Stay longer: If you can, book at least one overnight. Not only do you relax more, but you can also enjoy local wine/cider without driving.

Support locals: Bring reusable bags for shopping. Every purchase (gift, meal, wine) in the County has a big impact on small business owners during the slow season.

Prince Edward County’s charm is in its authentic slow holiday feel. Locals note that in winter you “get the owners” of shops and wineries instead of seasonal staff making conversations more personal. The County isn’t about gaudy displays; it’s about twinkling shop windows, handcrafted gifts, and cozy hospitality. Just remember the reality check, fewer crowds and fewer hours and you’ll enjoy a stress-free, genuine holiday getaway.