Downtown Oshawa gets its holiday season underway on Friday, November 20, when the Bright and Merry Market 2026 takes over the stretch from City Hall at 50 Centre St. S. to Memorial Park. The free evening runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and the city announced the programme on October 21.

Why you should go

  • It costs nothing to walk in. The city lists admission as free, so a family evening out comes down to what you choose to buy from vendors.
  • Local makers are the draw. Artisans along Centre St. sell handmade gifts, decorations and other festive items, which suits anyone hunting for presents that aren't from a big-box shelf.
  • There are two set-piece moments. A street performer billed as FireGuy stages a fire show at the City Hall North Parkette at 7:45 p.m., and the parkette's lights are switched on at 8:30 p.m.
  • Children have plenty to do. Families can add paint to a bus with Durhamways, board a holiday trolley, pose with Santa and join craft activities run by the LivingRoom Community Art Hive.
  • It is a chance to help. Organizers are collecting non-perishable food for Feed the Need in Durham, with bins at several stops.

What else is on that night

Music is scheduled at the Memorial Park Bandshell, with buskers and roaming entertainment elsewhere. The McLaughlin branch of the public library has its own lineup, including a headphone dance party and a set by the Bruce Gorrie Trio.

Community partners add more: Oshawa's fire education team brings a truck to Centre St. near Memorial Park, the Canadian Tank Museum sets up a display, and the Canadian Automotive Museum, The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, the seniors' centres and St. George's Memorial Church host holiday activities.

What to know before you go

The city has not published a separate schedule for each partner site, so check the official event page rather than assuming every location stays open for the full four hours. The same page carries any weather updates.

Food and merchandise cost extra. Donation bins for the food drive are at City Hall, The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, the McLaughlin branch, the Canadian Automotive Museum and the seniors' centres.

FAQ

When does the market take place?

Friday, November 20, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with the tree lighting at 8:30 p.m.

Do I need tickets?

No. Admission is free, and the city has not listed tickets for entry.