Sidney’s most magical night of the season is almost here, and if you’re looking for the perfect way to kick off the holidays, this is it.
On Friday, November 21st from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., downtown Sidney will transform into a sparkling Christmas by the Sea, complete with festive treats, twinkling lights, late-night shopping, and special surprises around every corner.
Dozens of local shops will stay open late so you can stroll the streets, pick up gifts, and soak up the small-town charm Sidney is known for.
Also, Christmas has come a little early for one lucky winner as we’ve partnered with the Explore Sidney to gift someone a $250 Sidney by the Sea gift card! You’ll find those contest details below.
And just like every year, Explore Sidney is bringing back some of their most-loved holiday traditions, including an ornament giveaway, treats stations, and a special bonus for anyone supporting local that night.
- Collectible Sidney Ornament Giveaway – Shoppers can scoop up this year’s limited-edition Sidney ornament, available while supplies last. These disappear fast every holiday season, so arriving early is your best bet
- Shop Local and Get Rewarded – If you’re planning to get some gift buying done, keep those receipts! Anyone who spends $100 or more at participating businesses on November 21st can bring their same-day receipt to the Explore Sidney team inside the Sidney Pier Hotel Sidney Pier Hotel to receive a $20 “Sidney by the Sea” Gift Card
- Wreath-Making Station – There’s also a wreath-making station with Hansell & Halkett set up in Garden Court, offering a creative stop along your shopping route.
- Toast the season at The Farmer’s Daughter – Mulled Wine, Cider, Charcuterie Cups, and Grilled Cheese Bites — cozy up in Sidney’s own Winter Wonderland at The Farmer’s Daughter and savour these festive favourites
- Chocolate & Candy Stations – Satisfy your sweet tooth with complimentary indulgent treats at our chocolate and candy stations scattered throughout town
- Complimentary Holiday Beverages – Warm up with a free holiday drink while you browse. The perfect cozy touch to enhance your evening. Find us at Salvador Davis & Co. Notaries Public on Second Street
- Photos and Cookies with Santa – Capture the holiday magic with a photo op with Santa himself. Kids (and the young at heart) can enjoy cookies while they wait. Santa will arrive at the Sidney Pier Hotel at 5 pm and stay until 7 p.m.
Throughout the evening, you’ll find festive touches all over downtown, including complimentary hot chocolate, holiday treats, and photos with Santa inside the Sidney Pier Hotel.
And new this year, The Farmer’s Daughter is hosting its own Winter Wonderland experience, featuring mulled wine, cider, charcuterie cups, and grilled cheese bites making it the perfect warm-up between shops.
If you want even more to explore, the full list of seasonal events — from scavenger hunts and displays to parades and Santa visits — is available at exploresidney.ca/holidays.
Celebrate the season with holiday cheer, surprises, and so much more!
CONTEST
For a chance to win a $250 Sidney by the Sea gift card courtesy of Explore Sidney, complete one or more of the following:
- LIKE EXPLORE SIDNEY on Facebook and comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
- FOLLOW EXPLORE SIDNEY on Instagram, and comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
- SHARE this post on Threads and/or X and leave a comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. on November 20th. One winner will be chosen at random on Friday moring and contacted through the platform they used to enter so make sure to check in that day.
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Christmas by the Sea
- Where: Throughtout downtown Sidney
- When: Friday, November 21st, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
