Destination Stratford’s Christmas Trail ties with 2024 edition for largest of its kind

The beloved Christmas Trail includes a variety of businesses from Stratford, Shakespeare, St. Marys and Mitchell, including nine new participants.

The beloved Christmas Trail by Destination Stratford returns for the holiday season.

The Christmas Trail vouchers can be purchased for $39.55 (including HST) at the Destination Stratford Office on 47 Downie St., Bradshaws on 129 Ontario St., or the Wine Lab in St. Marys on 16 Water St. S. Trail goers can choose up to six participating local businesses to visit on the trail until the vouchers expire on Dec. 20.

“The Christmas Trail offers an authentic Stratford experience for both visitors and locals to enjoy. It encourages holiday shopping, exploration, and community connection throughout the season,” April Murray, destination brand manager, told the Stratford Times. “Over the years, the trail has become a favourite for families, couples, friends and even corporate groups. It guides participants to local retailers, helping them discover hidden gems, unique gifts and festive treats along the way.”

The Christmas Trail includes a variety of businesses in Stratford, St. Marys, Shakespeare and Mitchell. Murray added that the trail receives lots of positive feedback from participating vendors, with many returning.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for businesses to get creative, offer unique holiday items and showcase retail shops during this special time of year.  We also continue to see a strong return rate from businesses that participate year after year. They recognize the tremendous value the trail brings to their stores, which often translates into increased foot traffic, sales and repeat visitors,” she said. “While it’s difficult to put an appropriate dollar amount on the trail’s economic impact, we believe it’s quite significant.”

Locals and tourists alike also enjoy the Christmas Trail.

“Trail-goers not only visit the featured stops but also discover neighbouring businesses along the way. Plus, the trail gives people even more reasons to explore Stratford, leading to more dining, shopping and overnight stays,” Murray said.

The Christmas Trail, first launched in 2014, has nine new businesses participating in the 2025 edition. Both the 2024 and 2025 editions of the trail are the largest in the program’s history.

“The trail continues to introduce more people to a variety of local businesses, benefiting everyone involved,” Murray said.

More information about the Christmas Trail can be found online by visiting https://visitstratford.ca/christmastrail.