Get ready for a sparkling month full of festive fun in PEI.  Here is our list of things to do in PEI this December!

1. Kick off the Holiday Season with the Charlottetown Christmas Festival

The Charlottetown Christmas Festival, presented by Discover Charlottetown, runs through January 2. It’s one of the easiest ways to jump into the season! Wander the Mistletoe Market at Boulder Park, browse local makers, take a horse-and-wagon ride, and stop in for a visit with Santa and so much more! It’s a cozy mix of lights, music, and simple holiday fun right in the heart of the city.

Photo via Charlottetown Christmas Festival

2. Experience a Holiday Kitchen Party

Harmony House is turning up the holiday cheer with a classic Island kitchen party—live music, quick wit, and that easy, pull-up-a-chair feeling. A cozy night out in Hunter River for anyone who loves good tunes and a good laugh.

Photo via Harmony House

3. Warm up on the Hot Chocolate Trail

Sip your way through Central Coastal PEI on the Hot Chocolate Trail. Local cafés and restaurants are serving their own takes on this winter classic – rich, creamy, and sometimes a little unexpected. A cozy weekend treat, running every Friday to Sunday until December 21.

Find the Trail Map here.

4. Go light chasing

Bundle up, hop in the car, and head out in search of holiday lights. It’s a classic Island tradition—slow drives, glowing homes, and a little time together. From Charlottetown to North Rustico, Summerside to Stratford, you’ll find neighbourhoods shining bright all season long. Grab a hot chocolate for the road and make an evening of it.

James Gallant’s Christmas Lights in North Rustico Christmas Lights, Photo by Rachel Peters

5. Hit up markets and craft fairs

PEI’s holiday markets and craft fairs are in full swing this month, bringing together local makers from across the Island and Atlantic Canada. It’s the best way to find thoughtful gifts, handmade goods, and a little seasonal cheer while you browse.

A few to check out:

• Mistletoe Market | Charlottetown | Weekends until December 21
• Christmas in the Valley | Tyne Valley | December 7th 
• Christmas in the Villages | Murray River | December 5-6

Mistletoe Market at Boulder Park, photo via Charlottetown Christmas Festival

6. Deck the Halls at Founders’

Founders’ Food Hall & Market is bringing the holiday cheer with “Deck the Halls,” running over the first three weekends of December. Browse local vendors, enjoy festive food demos, and take in live music as you wander the historic building turned market. There’s holiday trivia, Santa meet-and-greets, and live ice carvings to round out the fun. It’s an easy, cheerful stop to add to your December weekends.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

7. Treat yourself to a Holiday Show at The Centre

The Confederation Centre of the Arts is a must-visit this December, offering a lineup of festive performances as part of their Live @ The Centre programming that is perfect for the holiday season.

• Stadacona Band: Sleigh Bells in the Sun | December 7
• The Nutcracker: Remixing the Magic | December 13
• Choir! Choir! Choir! An Un-Silent Night Epic Holiday Sing-Along | December 15
• Barra MacNeils East Coast Christmas | December 19th

Confederation Centre of the Arts

8. Dance the night away at Red Shores

For a night of holiday cheer, you won’t want to miss Jingle & Mingle, presented by Red Shores Park After Dark! Enjoy the festive atmosphere and live music from Vintage 4.0 and TIP-ER-BACK! Come celebrate the season on December 6th at Red Shores Charlottetown – it’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities!

9. Spend quality time at a Local Restaurant

December is a great excuse to slow down and share a meal with the people you love. Whether it’s a cozy pub night or a long lunch at a favourite spot, PEI’s local restaurants make it easy to settle in and enjoy good food together. Need ideas? Check out our Island Eats page.

Photo via Merchantman

10. Ring in 2026!

How are you spending New Years Eve? Welcome the new year in Island style at one of the many celebrations happening December 31st.

• Capital New Year | Dec 31, 2025 | Founders’ Food Hall & Market, Charlottetown
• New Years Eve at Red Shores | Dec 31, 2025 | Red Shores Summerside and Charlottetown

Photo by Via Reyes

Check out Why Mill River is the Perfect Place for Winter Adventure, and A Glimpse Into an Island Winter Wonderland to see the beauty of a PEI Winter!