Durham Tourism Blog

Santa Claus is coming to town! Bundle up and enjoy the magic of the season at one of Santa’s many visits across Durham Region. There's a full lineup of parades set to spread festive cheer, and visits by parade goers can also mean a thriving holiday season for local merchants with stops at shops and restaurants along the parade route. This beloved tradition features a festive street procession and is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

Channel your inner lumberjack (or lumberjill ), snap some insta-worthy pics, and get into the holiday spirit when you visit one of Durham Region’s tree farms! Choose from pre-cut trees, decorative greenery, and cut-your-own—including White and Blue Spruce, Balsam, Douglas and Fraser Firs, and White and Scotch Pines. Some farms also offer refreshments and family-friendly winter activities, including wagon rides, bonfires, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, snacks, visits with Santa, beautiful holiday décor and more!

Home to the Apple Capital of Canada, Durham Region is no stranger to all things apple! Especially delicious apple dishes. Using apples from Archibald Orchard & Estate Winery and other local ingredients, Chef Alex Page has created a delicious soup for you to try at home—the perfect comfort meal as we head into the cooler temperatures and embrace fall.

When life starts to feel a little “la la la la la la”, there's only two things you can do. Turn on the TV to binge watch Gilmore Girls, or start the car and head to Port Perry to experience a Gilmore Girls inspired day for yourself. We recommend doing both, really. Although the fan favourite Gilmore Girls wasn’t filmed in Durham Region, you'll quickly find that stepping into historic downtown Port Perry will transport you to Stars Hollow. The only thing missing? Lorelai and Rory.

Keeping children entertained is no small feat, but in Durham Region there is no end to the activities that will leave the kids saying “best day ever”. From meeting local farm animals to the thrills of an indoor playground, or making their mark on the world in an art class, there are tons of ways for the youngsters in your life to create life-long memories in Durham.

Sunflower season has officially bloomed in Durham Region! This summer, wander through the sunflower fields, pick-your-own bouquet, and shop the farm store products at The Sunflower Farm in Beaverton. Not only will you have the ultimate summer day, but you can bring a little piece of the farm home with you! Using sunflower seeds and other local ingredients, Chef Alex Page has created a delicious crispy gnocchi for you to try at home, and wow your family and friends!