'Tis the season for Christmas markets and all things adjacent. Atwater Market opened its Village de Noël on November 26, Jean-Talon Market followed with its first-ever Marché de Noël on December 4 and, on December 5, a magical winter garden opened downtown.
But if you're looking for a Christmas outing with its own unique touch, here's another one to put on your radar: the Desjardins Village in Lights in Drummondville, about an hour's drive from Montreal.
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Not only is it special because it's illuminated by over 25,000 sparkling lights but also because it's located at Village Quebec D'Antan, a replica of a Quebec village from 1810 to 1930 — giving it that quaint, old-timey, picture-perfect storybook feel.
The 2020 edition just opened last weekend, but we managed to get our hands on recently posted photos — some from this year, some from previous years — that give you a glimpse of what to expect.
"Walk the streets and immerse yourself in the magic of the Holidays, thanks to our enchanting decor," reads the website.
Village Québécois d’Antan | FacebookActivities include outdoor fires, animated displays and chats with villagers "to help Mother Christmas unveil a mystery surrounding the teasing elves."
Village Québécois d’Antan | FacebookThere are also sleigh rides pulled by horses, a general store where you can stock up on "treats of yesteryear," a doughnut shop with old-fashioned doughnuts and a Christmas market.
Village Québécois d’Antan | FacebookThe website says COVID-19 safety measures are in effect, including social distancing and masking.
Asked on Facebook if Santa would be there this year or if he's on a COVID-19 break, the village responded it would still be possible to hand-deliver him letters — but only from a two-metre distance.
Desjardins Village in Lights
Price: $20 for adults; $16.09 for teenagers; $15 for children; and free for toddlers 2 and under. Season passes are also available. Buying tickets online in advance is encouraged.
When: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
- December 4 and 5
- December 11 and 12
- December 18 to January 2
- Closed on December 25 and January 1
Address: Village Québécois d'Antan, 1425, rue Montplaisir, Drummondville, QC
Why You Need To Go: Christmas fun with a traditional twist and the magic of 25,000 lights.
Website