As winter settles over Prince Edward County, the region transforms into a magical wonderland offering a host of exciting activities and events.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, local flavors, or festive celebrations, the county has something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months.

Looking for things to do in Prince Edward County in December, here is a list of ideas you may not have thought of.

Exploring Prince Edward County in Winter

The winter season in Prince Edward County is a delightful time to explore the region’s natural beauty and charm. From winter activities and weekend getaways to visiting picturesque Picton, there’s much to discover in this winter wonderland.

1. Wine Tasting: Prince Edward County is known for its vineyards and wineries. Winter is a great time to explore the region’s wineries and enjoy wine tastings. Take a tour and indulge in the rich flavors of the local wines and ice wines. Ask about their Christmas Crawl.
2. Ice Fishing: Bundle up and head out to the frozen waters around Prince Edward County for some ice fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, ice fishing offers a unique and peaceful experience in the winter months.
3. Winter Hiking: Lace up your boots and explore the many scenic trails in Prince Edward County. From the Millennium Trail to the Sandbanks Provincial Park, there are plenty of trails to choose from. Take in the breathtaking winter landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
4. Culinary Delights: Indulge in the local culinary scene by visiting charming cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. Enjoy cozy meals featuring locally sourced ingredients and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. See my post about Countylicious in November.
5. Indoor Activities: If the weather is particularly harsh, there are plenty of indoor activities to explore in Prince Edward County in December. Visit art galleries, and museums, or attend a live performance at the Regent Theatre.
6. Winter Festivals: Check out the winter festivals, for example, the Picton Santa Clause Parade, and the Lantern Parade in December, or attend one of the Holiday markets held throughout the County. For example, The “Winter Wanderland” hosted by the Wanderer Resort in Wellington. 
7. Spa and Wellness: Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the county’s luxurious spas. For example, Pamper yourself with a massage, soak in a hot tub, or enjoy a sauna session to unwind from the winter chill of Lake Ontario at the Wanderer Resort in Wellington.
8. Photography Opportunities: Winter in Prince Edward County offers breathtaking photo opportunities. Capture the frozen landscapes, snow-covered vineyards, and wildlife in their natural habitat. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture these picturesque moments.
9. Local Breweries: In addition to wineries, Prince Edward County is also home to several breweries. Sample a variety of craft beers and learn about the brewing process while enjoying the cozy ambiance of the tasting rooms.
10. Cozy Accommodations: Make your winter getaway complete by staying at one of the county’s cozy accommodations. Choose from charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, Airbnb, or even rent a cottage for a more intimate experience.

10 December Things To Do in Prince Edward County

When visiting Prince Edward County in December, you can immerse yourself in a variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and winter vineyard tours. 

1. Christmas Parades: Enjoy the festive spirit by attending one of the Christmas parades in Prince Edward County. Both Picton and Bloomfield have a parade every year. The Bloomfield parade is at night so the lights and colors are just amazing to see. The event dates and times change but are usually in early December.
2. Holiday Shopping: Explore the charming shops and boutiques in Prince Edward County for unique holiday gifts. Many local businesses may have special promotions or extended hours during the holiday season. This applies to Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington.
3. Winter Wine Tours: Yes some of the county’s renowned wineries are open through December. Some wineries offer special winter tours and tastings, providing an opportunity to sample local wines and enjoy the scenic beauty of the vineyards. For example, Karlo Estates and Sandbanks wineries are open all year and offer entertainment or special events like dinner and show with tastings.
4. Live Music Events: Check out the local music scene with live performances at Coaches’ pub, Acoustic grill, or special holiday concerts at Base 31. The Regent Theatre in Picton hosts musical events during the festive season, featuring a variety of genres to suit different tastes.
5. Festival of Trees: Attend this event hosted by the  PECM Hospital Auxillary in Picton. Discover handmade gifts and decorations and a bake sale. Local artisans often showcase their work, providing a unique shopping experience and an opportunity to support the community.
6. Tree Lighting Ceremonies: Participate in community tree lighting ceremonies to kick off the holiday season. These events often include carol singing and hot cocoa and horse-drawn carriage. For example, Wellington has their annual Tree Lighting event in Wellington Park in early December every year.
7. Amiliasburg Christmas in the village: Host a spectacular Christmas village experience for the whole family. Includes sleigh rides, hot drinks, treats, crafts and so much more to see for yourself.
8. Culinary Experiences: Explore the local culinary scene with special holiday menus at restaurants and cafes like Books and Company, The Bean Counter, and Miss Lily’s. Some establishments may offer seasonal dishes and themed dining experiences.
9. 23rd Annual Busy Hands Artisan Market: In early December at Highline Hall-Wellington Arena many local vendors are showcasing their handmade products.
10. Heritage House Tours: This is a Christmas in The County House Tour featuring a visit to some of the most historic buildings in PEC.

Remember to check the specific dates and details of these activities closer to December, as event schedules may vary. Enjoy the festive season in Prince Edward County!

The serene landscapes and snow-covered vineyards provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.

A December Weekend Getaway in Prince Edward County

A December weekend in Prince Edward County offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You’ll experience the tranquility of the county’s holiday season.

Some ideas for a weekend away including popular places to stay and visit:

1. Where To Stay in December

Stay at The June Motel:

• This trendy and stylish motel is known for its chic design and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to stay for a winter weekend getaway.

Stay at Isaiah Tubbs Resort: 

• Located on the shores of West Lake, Isaiah Tubbs Resort offers a tranquil setting in December. Enjoy the scenic views, take a winter walk along the lake, and unwind with a glass of wine or great food in a comfortable and cozy location in PEC.

2. Explore Sandbanks Provincial Park:

• While the beach may not be the go-to spot in December, Sandbanks Provincial Park offers beautiful trails and scenic views. Take a winter hike and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

3. Wine Tasting at Norman Hardie Winery:

• Prince Edward County is known for its wineries. Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at Norman Hardie Winery, Waupoos Winery, Karlo Estates, Sandbanks Winery as these are all known for their excellent wines and picturesque setting.

4. Discover Bloomfield Main Street:

• Explore the charming streets of Bloomfield this time of year. It’s filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafes. It’s a great place to stroll around and enjoy the local atmosphere.

5. Visit Macaulay Heritage Park:

• Immerse yourself in history at Macaulay Heritage Park. The historic buildings are beautifully decorated for the holiday season, providing a festive and educational experience.

6. Cozy up at Parsons Brewing Company:

• Warm up with some locally brewed beer at Parsons Brewing Company. The brewery often has a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax on a winter evening.

7. Attend a Winter Festival:

• Check if any winter festivals or events are happening during your visit. Many communities organize festive events, parades, and activities during the holiday season.

Also, see my post about weekend getaways for couples in PEC.

Outdoor December Activities in Prince Edward County

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Prince Edward County offers a myriad of winter activities amid its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders.

Exploring Sandbanks Provincial Park

December weather is usually damp and cold but you can still explore the majestic Sandbanks Provincial Park. The dunes and trails can be mucky, but there are some cool things to see. Regardless, many people still explore the area for hiking, and photography, to admire the park’s unique December scenery.

I’ve seen people walking or on a Fat bike roaming these areas all winter long.

Ice Skating in Prince Edward County

Lacing up your skates and gliding around at the many public skating events at the Wellington or Picton rink adds a touch of magic to your December adventure in Prince Edward County.

December Vineyard Tours in PEC

Yes, this is still very much a thing called winter wine tours in PEC been myself twice in fact. Vineyard tours this time of year allow visitors to experience the county’s wineries in a new light. With fewer crowds and in some cases a winter backdrop, these tours offer a unique and enchanting perspective on the county’s renowned vineyards.

The vineyards are very happy to see visitors this time of year and may even welcome you with a free tasting. Some…not all.

For example, Amanda’s Vineyards on County Road 25 towards Waupoos has been known to offer free heated Mulled Wine on the weekends if you stop in. Been there myself many times.

Exploring Millennium Trail in December

Normally PEC doesn’t always have snow that sticks around enough for the snowmobile trails in the county. The Millennium Trail is often still clear to Embark on a walking adventure.

If it does snow here in the county then the snow-covered landscapes and tranquil surroundings create a delightful setting for hiking and exploring the county’s natural beauty. You just need to watch out for snowmobiles.

Snowshoeing in Prince Edward County

Traversing through the snow-covered terrain on snowshoes in PEC is becoming more popular it seems. Common trails are the Sand Banks Park, Sugarbush Winey Trails, and the Millennium Trail. At Sugarbush Winery you can rent shoe shoes or bring your own to trek through their Sugarbush and vineyard. 

Fat Biking and Cross-country Skiing in PEC

Although I have not personally tried this out, fat biking is growing in popularity here in the county. These bikes can be rented or bring your own. Also, cross-country skiing offers a unique and memorable way to experience the county’s December landscapes and snow-covered trails if we get snow early enough.

Enjoying Local Flavors Of PEC in December

December in Prince Edward County is also a time to savor the local flavors and indulge in the county’s renowned wineries, cideries, and breweries.

Visit The County For Wine Tasting 

Warm up with a glass of good ol’ spicy mulled wine to sip on while you embark on a winter wine-tasting tour. 

If you’re looking for the best wine for winter, you should try a nice, rich red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. These types of wine have those deep, earthy flavors that just warm you up from the inside out when it’s cold outside. Plus, they pair great with hearty winter dishes like stews and roasts. 

You may want to check out these wineries, such as Waupoos Winery, Three Dog Winery, and  Sugarbush Vineyards, or any of the other wineries that stay open through the winter.

Winter Activities at Craft Breweries

If you’re looking for some tasty winter ales, you gotta check out the craft breweries in Prince Edward County.

Parsons, just outside of Picton has got this awesome Twelve Stouts of Christmas and cozy firepit vibes.

And over at 555 Brewing, they’ve got a rich, light smoky, malty Pizza Squirrel with wood fire pizza that’ll warm you right up. 

But if you’re downtown Wellington, swing by Midtown Brewing for their annual Christmas Market and amazing seasonal food lineup. 

And don’t forget about Prince Eddy’s which provides a summer surfing vibe all year long and Gillingham Brewing Company with their Ontario 2022 award for the best Dark European Lager.

Also, see my PEC Brewery List for more details.

 Trust me, you’ll thank me later. Cheers! 

Visit Cideries Before They Close

Typically December into January is when most of the cideries close for the season BUT they also offer fresh harvested cider.

Visiting Prince Edward County Cideries in December offers a unique and festive experience. The County Cider Company, Stock & Row Farm Cidery, Crimson Cider Company, and Loch Mor Cider Co. are all beautiful destinations to explore during the holiday season.

With the crisp winter air and the picturesque countryside, visitors can enjoy a cozy and welcoming atmosphere while sipping on delicious and carefully crafted ciders.

Additionally, the cideries often provide a chance to purchase gifts for friends and family, making it a perfect destination for Christmas shopping. Overall, a visit to Prince Edward County Cideries in December promises a delightful and memorable experience for cider enthusiasts and tourists alike. 

Hope this helps and if you have anything to add, please let me know in the comments below.