A hostess or host love nothing more than making a special effort in creating their home and hearth with a distinctive Christmas air. Whether you are “mad” about the season or looking for that discrete or unique “something”, Stratford’s shops and boutiques open their doors for special events to offer you a wealth of inspirations. From garden centres stocked with decorating ideas to an open house weekend in our heritage district, our shopkeepers would like to share their creativity and great value.

• Victorian Christmas Trail, November 3 - December 20, is a perfect way to stroll our best shops filled with Christmas finery. Pick up a guide to over 16 unique shops, browse 8 and collect small presents for yourself or as stocking stuffers for loved ones. $20 for the guide. A perfect Christmas outing for a group of friends. Passes available at Stratford Tourism, 47 Downie Street, Stratford 800-561-7926.
• Cozyn’s Garden Gallery Open House, November 12 - 13, 10 – 5 pm. Take a tour and discover dozens of trees decorated for the season and hundreds of wreaths, baubles and themed displays.
• Historic Downtown Open House, November 26 – 27. Join the merchants of the heritage district as they officially launch the holiday shopping season. You can expect to find specials and welcoming samples to inspire gift giving or filling out your Christmas list.
• St. Marys Merchants Annual Christmas Open House, November 27. Come start your Christmas shopping in the charming heritage town as merchants offer special promotions just in time for the season.
• Cozyn’s Garden Gallery’s Ladies Night Out, November 28. Get the girls together for a special night out of fun and savings browsing the selection of holiday decorations, ideas and inspiration.