Good morning, Markham!

Can you believe it? Just 7 more days until December! I’m currently brainstorming ways to make this newsletter even better for you (hence the slightly annoying survey questions—thanks for bearing with me!).

I’m thinking “new year, new me” vibes for 2026 and want to make next year’s newsletters something really special for all of you. If you have any ideas or feedback, don’t hesitate to hit reply. I’d love to hear from you! Thanks so much to all of you for your continued support!

Alright, we got quite a bit lined up for you guys, so let’s get into it!

Note: Events marked with a “➡️” are not in Markham but they’re too good not to share!

CITY UPDATES

Transportation Master Plan Public Meeting

The City of Markham is working on a Transportation Master Plan (TMP) to make getting around the city easier and more efficient, including updates for the Robinson Glen East area (McCowan Rd – Major Mackenzie to Elgin Mills Rd E). Come join the Public Meeting on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 6–8 PM to learn more and share your thoughts.

Learn more: https://yourvoicemarkham.ca/markham-transportation-master-plan

Markham Village Heritage Plan

The City is giving the Markham Village Heritage Conservation District (MVHCD) Plan a refresh to help protect what makes our village so special.

Got ideas on what matters most for preserving Markham Village’s heritage? Come share them at a Public Meeting on Monday, Dec. 1 at 6:30 PM at the Markham Village Community Centre.

Learn more: http://markham.ca/MVHCD

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES

40th Annual Festival of Lights

📅 Friday, November 28, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 Main Street Markham, 132 Robinson St, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free Admission

Celebrate 40 years of Main Street Markham’s most beloved holiday tradition with fireworks, a tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, live performances, and festive new attractions like a Skating Rink Under the Stars and Santa’s Village & Fireside Lounge. A magical kickoff to the holiday season for all ages. Learn more here. 

Holiday Karaoke Fundraiser

📅 Friday, November 28, 2025 | 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

📍 Boston Pizza, 7680 Markham Road, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free / Raffle tickets available

Sing along to holiday carols and enjoy a special guest appearance while supporting STC teams for their winter basketball season. Participate in raffle draws for a grand prize of 2 passes to Go Place Spa and help raise funds for a great cause. Learn more here. 

St. Julia Billiart Christmas Market

📅 Friday, November 28, 2025 | 3:30 PM–8:00 PM

📍 St. Julia Billiart Catholic School, 2070 Bur Oak Ave, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free

Celebrate the season with handcrafted treasures, festive treats, and unique holiday gifts from local artisans. Enjoy live drawings, a kids’ colouring contest, photo opportunities with Santa, and a joyful evening for the whole family. Learn more here.

HO! HO! HO! Holiday Market

📅 Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

📍 Markham Wesley Centre, 22 Esna Park Dr, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free

Celebrate the season with over 50 vendors, kid-preneur booths, games, crafts, and festive activities; all while supporting the SickKids Foundation. Enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, storytelling, carolling, and a charity auction for a fun-filled family day. Learn more here. 

Markham Santa Claus Parade 2025

📅 Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 Main Street Markham North, Markham, ON 

🎟️ Free Admission

Kick off the holiday season at the Annual Markham Santa Claus Parade! Enjoy festive floats, community groups, and a joyful visit from Santa as the parade travels along Main Street Markham. A cheerful tradition perfect for families and holiday lovers of all ages. Learn more here. 

Aurora’s Christmas Market ➡️

📅 Friday-Sunday, November 28–30 & December 5–7, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

📍 Aurora Town Square, 50 Victoria Street, Aurora, ON 

🎟️ Free Admission

Step into a festive winter wonderland at Aurora’s Christmas Market! Browse unique holiday gifts from rotating vendors, enjoy live entertainment, cozy bonfires, and get photos with Santa. Don’t miss the official Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28 at 5:30 PM in the Outdoor Square. Learn more here. 

Winter Wonderland Lunch

📅 Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 12:00 PM–2:00 PM

📍 Boston Pizza, 7680 Markham Road, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free / Standard Lunch Pricing

Enjoy a magical lunch with a princess, meet a friendly snowman, and build your own snowman craft. Sing along to your favorite holiday movie and soak in a fun, festive atmosphere for the whole family. Learn more here. 

ARTS & CULTURE

Make & Take Holiday Reindeer Planter

📅 Tuesday, November 25, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

📍 Kate’s Garden, 227 Main Street North, Markham

🎟️ $85

Create a charming reindeer planter filled with winter greens and frost-proof berries—perfect to reuse each year. All tools and materials are included. A fun and festive hands-on workshop to kick off the holiday season! Tickets here. 

Plant Nite: Wildflower Cabin

📅 Thursday, November 27, 2025 | 7:00 PM

📍 Rouge River Brewery, 50 Bullock Dr Unit 8, Markham, ON

🎟️ $45

Get creative at this cozy Plant Nite workshop! Build your own “Wildflower Cabin” planter while enjoying drinks and a relaxed atmosphere at Rouge River Brewery. A fun night out for anyone looking to unwind with friends and make something beautiful. Tickets here. 

Trail of Treasures at Bruce's Mill

📅 Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM or 2:00 PM–4:00 PM

📍 Bruce’s Mill Conservation Park, 3291 Stouffville Road, Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON

🎟️ $75 per family (2–4 people) | +$15 per additional person

Embark on an outdoor treasure hunt along the scenic trails of Bruce’s Mill! Use maps, riddles, and clues to track down hidden treasures while discovering natural wonders and maybe a few birds along the way. A perfect family adventure—just bring your hiking shoes and curiosity! Tickets here. 

Bell Axcellent Communications Presents: Anime Celebration 2025

📅 Saturday, November 29th to Sunday, November 30th, 2025

📍 1/F & 2/F Centre Court, North Entrances, Pacific Mall, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free Admission

Anime fans, don’t miss this exciting pop culture event featuring a lively marketplace and stage shows. Enjoy two weekends of cosplay, collectibles, performances, and fun activities for all ages. Join the celebration and immerse yourself in the anime world! Learn more here.

THE SOCIAL SCENE

PLAY BOY TECHNO RAVE – by DSPC House Party Crew ➡️

📅 Friday, November 29, 2025 | 10:00 PM–3:00 AM

📍 Sugar Café & Lounge, 550 Hwy 7 E, Building E, 2nd Floor, Richmond Hill, ON

🎟️ From $6.66

Experience underground energy with hypnotic lights, deep basslines, and seductive vibes at this bold techno rave. Enjoy live DJ performances, meet the Bunny Girls & Boys, compete in the “Best Dressed” contest, and sip champagne in VIP booths for an unforgettable night. Tickets here. 

The Loyal Love Labubu Professional Dating Party + Complimentary Roses ➡️

📅 Saturday, November 30, 2025 | 3:00 PM–5:30 PM EST

📍 115 York Blvd #2, Richmond Hill, ON

🎟️ From $31.15

Connect with driven singles at this classy cocktail reception and enjoy a complimentary Labubu from Pop Mart. Take part in the romantic rose ceremony and meet amazing Bachelors and Bachelorettes from across Canada. Tickets here. 

Richmond Hill Speed Dating & Comedy Show (Ages 25–38) ➡️

📅 Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 5:30 PM–7:30 PM

📍 Jokers Theatre & Comedy Club, 115 York Boulevard, Unit 9, Richmond Hill, ON

🎟️ From CA $22.90

Meet new people and enjoy a night of laughter at this speed-dating event designed for ages 25–38. The evening mixes fast-paced conversations with live comedy for a fun, social atmosphere. Tickets here. 

Richmond Hill Speed Dating (Ages 45–59) ➡️

📅 Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 6:30 PM–8:30 PM

📍 Fionn MacCool’s, 125 York Blvd #135, Richmond Hill, ON

🎟️ $49 – $59

A relaxed, social evening for singles ages 45–59 to meet new people through fast-paced conversations in a friendly pub setting. Appetizers included! Tickets here. 

SHOPPING BUZZ

Lisa’s Cosmetics Christmas Warehouse Sale 2025

📅 November 15 – December 7, 2025 | Mon & Fri 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sat & Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

📍 135 Commerce Valley Drive East, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free Admission

Shop top brand cosmetics, skincare, and health & beauty products with savings up to 80%! Featured brands include Elizabeth Arden, Stila, Revlon, Milani, Juicy Couture, and more. Don’t miss this festive warehouse sale! Learn more here.

Styled in the 6ix Designer Pop-up Sale

📅 Thursday, November 27–Sunday, November 30, 2025 | Thu–Sat: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, Sun: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

📍 All Nations Banquet Hall, 3300 HWY 7 East, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free

Shop an exclusive designer pop-up featuring clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories from over 80 European labels at up to 80% off. Don’t miss your last chance in 2025 to refresh your wardrobe and find perfect holiday gifts at this luxury sale event. Learn more here. 

Designer Shoe Sale

📅 Thursday–Saturday, November 27–29, 2025 | 10:00 AM–9:00 PM

📍 Markham Fairgrounds Building 1, 10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON

🎟️ Free

Shop a Black Friday warehouse blowout featuring winter boots, shoes, and apparel for men, women, and kids at up to 80% off. Find top brands like Reebok, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and more at this limited-time designer sale. Learn more here. 

SHOWTIME IN MARKHAM

The Marching Band by Markham at the Movies

📅 Tuesday, November 25, 2025 | 7:00 PM–9:00 PM

📍 Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON

🎟️ $15

Watch The Marching Band (En Fanfare), a moving comedy about an acclaimed conductor with leukemia who discovers his older brother and reconnects through music. Their reunion sparks a heartfelt journey of family, music, and community amidst the town’s factory closure. Tickets here. 

John Pizzarelli in Concert

📅 Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON

🎟️ $78–$88

Enjoy an evening with GRAMMY-winning jazz guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli, known for his modern take on the Great American Songbook and iconic pop classics. A standout show in the Diamond Season! Tickets here. 

A Very Merry Motown Christmas

📅 Thursday, November 27, 2025 | 7:30 PM

📍 Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON

🎟️ Prime: $69 | Regular: $65

Celebrate the holidays with the soul, rhythm, and groove of Motown, featuring hits from The Temptations, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and more. Classic Christmas and Motown favorites come alive with incredible singers and a true-to-Motown band. Tickets here. 

Montreal Guitar Trio: MG3 Plays Ennio Morricone

📅 Friday, November 28, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON

🎟️ $40

Enjoy an evening of iconic film melodies as the acclaimed Montreal Guitar Trio performs a tribute to Ennio Morricone. With their dynamic stage presence and multi-instrumental talent, MG3 brings cinematic favourites to life in an unforgettable live concert. Tickets here.

One Silent Dawn – Village Voices Winter Concert

📅 Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 3300 Hwy 7, Markham, ON

🎟️ $25

Welcome the winter season with Village Voices’ One Silent Dawn, a warm and uplifting choral concert filled with festive music and seasonal cheer. Tickets here.

A Merry Munsch-mas! Family Holiday Show ➡️

📅 Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 11:00 AM

📍 Nineteen on the Park, 19 Civic Ave, Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON

🎟️ $16.95–$22.60

Kick off the holidays with a lively storytelling performance featuring four beloved Robert Munsch classics: Sounds Like Christmas, Finding Christmas, I Have to Go!, and Thomas’ Snowsuit. Actor M. John Kennedy brings the tales to life with humour, warmth, and interactive fun for all ages. Tickets here.

BUSINESS BOOST

35th Annual Business Excellence Awards

📅 Thursday, November 27, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa, Markham, ON

🎟️ MBT Members: $275 + HST | Non-Members: $350 + HST

Celebrate outstanding local businesses at the 35th Annual Business Excellence Awards—an evening honouring innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial excellence. The night begins with registration and a reception at 5:30 PM, followed by dinner and the awards ceremony at 6:45 PM. Dress to impress with cocktail, semi-formal, or black-tie-optional attire. Tickets here. 

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Nourishing for Two – Complete Guide to Prenatal Nutrition and Self Care

📅 Friday, November 28, 2025 | 1:00 PM–1:45 PM

📍 Online Event by Markham Public Library

🎟️ Free

Learn how to make healthy choices during pregnancy, including proper nutrition, managing common discomforts, and creating sustainable self-care habits. Gain the knowledge and confidence to support both you and your growing baby throughout your prenatal journey. Register here. 

Let's Talk – Walk-In Counselling Sessions 

📅 Monday, November 24, 2025 | 2:00 PM–5:00 PM

📍 Markham Public Library - Aaniin Branch

🎟️ Free

Access professional counselling without a long wait to explore thoughts and feelings during life transitions or difficulties. Sessions focus on creating a short-term plan using your current strengths, resources, and supports to make an immediate difference. Learn more here. 

WEEKLY MUSIC & SPORTS

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

🎤 Fiona MacCool’s Richmond Hill | Open Mic | November 25th | 7PM-10PM

🎤 The Duchess of Markham | Open Mic | November 27th | 8PM-11PM

🎤 Main’s Mansion | Karaoke | November 27th | 10PM to Close

🎤 Col. Mustard Sports Bar | Karaoke | November 28th| Begins at 9PM

🎤 The Duchess of Markham | Open Mic | November 28th | 8PM-11PM

🎤 Monte Carlo Inn | Open Mic | November 28th | 7PM-10PM

🎵 Rouge River Brewery | Rum Cuilin | November 28th | 6PM-11PM

🎵 The Duchess of Markham | Live Music | November 29th | Begins at 4PM

🎵 Village Organic Market and Music | Live Music | November 29th | 8AM-1PM

🎤 Main’s Mansion | Karaoke | November 29th | 10PM to Close

🎵 Rouge River Brewery | Blackboard Blues | November 29th | 7PM-11PM

🎵 Costa Sorrento | Pierina & Ivano | November 30th | 6PM-9PM

SPORTS HAPPENIN’S THIS WEEK

🏀 Toronto Raptors v Cleveland Cavaliers | November 24th

🏀 Toronto Raptors v Indiana Pacers | November 26th

THANKS FOR READING!

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