Your guide to living in Durham Region & the GTA.

November is here, and there's plenty happening across Durham Region and the GTA!

From Christmas markets and festive workshops to family entertainment and community celebrations, the next two weeks offer lots of opportunities to get out, explore and enjoy time with family and friends.

This is also a time to pause and remember. With Remembrance Day on November 11, communities across Durham Region will come together to honour the courage and sacrifices of those who have served our country.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for unique holiday gifts or simply searching for something different to do this weekend, here are some events worth adding to your calendar!

LEGO – Creative Fun for Kids

Calling all young builders and LEGO enthusiasts!

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: McLean Branch & Makerspace, 95 Magill Dr., Ajax
 

Calling all young builders and LEGO enthusiasts!

If your kids enjoy building, creating and using their imaginations, this LEGO-themed activity could be a fun way to spend part of the weekend.

It's a chance to explore creative possibilities through one of the world's most popular building toys.

Holiday Wreath Workshop

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Time: 11:00 am-1:00pm,  Second session: 4:00pm-6:00pm

Location: Gardenerette, 2535 Taunton Rd, Bowmanville

Registration: Check availability and workshop fees
 

Get into the holiday spirit with a little creativity!

A holiday wreath workshop is a wonderful way to welcome the festive season while creating something decorative for your home.

Whether you're looking to add a personal touch to your front door or simply enjoy an afternoon of crafting, this could be a great seasonal activity.

K-Pop Dreamworld – The Ultimate K-Pop Tribute Experience

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM

Location: Tribute Communities Centre, 99 Athol St E, Oshawa

Tickets: Check event listing for pricing and availability 905-438-8811

K-pop fans, this one's for you!

K-Pop Dreamworld brings a tribute-style entertainment experience centred around the music and excitement of K-pop.

For families with young music fans, teenagers or anyone who enjoys energetic pop performances, this could be a fun addition to your weekend plans.

Scandinavian Paper Ornaments Workshop – Clarington

Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026

Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Location: Tilted Glass Brewing Co., 160 Baseline Road, E, Unit B1, Bowmanville

Registration: Check event listing for availability
 

Looking for something a little different to do this weekend?

Explore the art of Scandinavian-inspired holiday decorations at this creative paper ornaments workshop.

It's a lovely opportunity to try a seasonal craft and create decorations that can add a handmade touch to your Christmas celebrations.

City of Oshawa Remembrance Day Parade & Ceremony
 

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Time: 10:25 AM

Location: Memorial Park, 110 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa

Admission: FREE
 

Remembrance Day is an important opportunity for our community to come together, reflect and honour the men and women who have served and sacrificed for Canada.

The City of Oshawa's Remembrance Day Parade and Ceremony provides an opportunity for residents to pay their respects, remember those who lost their lives in service and recognize the contributions of our veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members.

Residents of all ages are encouraged to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this day.

Downtown Whitby Christmas Market

Dates: Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14, 2026

Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Celebration Square, 405 Dundas Street West, Whitby

Admission: Free
 

Christmas is coming to Downtown Whitby!

The 8th Annual Downtown Whitby Christmas Market returns to Celebration Square for two days of holiday shopping, entertainment and festive family fun.

Explore local vendors, enjoy seasonal treats and take in the Christmas atmosphere in the heart of downtown Whitby.

Some of the highlights include live outdoor entertainment, magic performances, maple taffy on snow, children's holiday crafts, visits with Santa and The Grinch, festive photo opportunities and Christmas trolley rides.

It's a great opportunity to support local businesses while getting a head start on your holiday shopping!

Holly Bazaar

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Location: St. Martin's Anglican Church, 1203 St. Martin’s Drive, Pickering
 

There's something special about visiting a local holiday bazaar as the Christmas season approaches!

The Holly Bazaar is another opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere and discover a community holiday event.

If you're looking for seasonal shopping ideas or simply want to explore a local event, it's worth checking out.

Brooklin Christmas Market – Whitby

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Locations:

St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 130 Watford Street, Brooklin

St. Thomas Anglican Church, 101 Winchester Road East, Brooklin
 

Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Brooklin!

This year's Brooklin Christmas Market brings together two local churches for a festive day of shopping, handmade creations and community fun.

With more than 90 vendors across both locations, visitors can browse unique gifts, seasonal treats and handcrafted items while supporting local businesses and artisans.

There will also be live music, and Santa is scheduled to visit St. Thomas Anglican Church from noon until 3:00 PM.

Toronto Zoo Holiday Marketplace

Dates: Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Toronto Zoo Special Events Centre, Discovery Zone, 2000 Meadowvale Road, Toronto

Admission: Included with regular zoo admission

Last admission: 3:30 PM
 

Looking for a holiday outing that combines shopping with a visit to one of the GTA's favourite attractions?

The Toronto Zoo Holiday Marketplace is returning for a two-day celebration featuring local artisans, producers and seasonal vendors.

Visitors can browse a variety of unique items while enjoying festive decorations, photo opportunities and seasonal food and beverages.

The marketplace takes place both indoors and outdoors, making it a fun addition to a day exploring the zoo.

The Alternative All-Gender Clothing Swap – Toronto

Dates: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Location: Ground Control, 1279 Queen St W, Toronto

Admission: $5 (Cash only) Entry fee

Looking to refresh your wardrobe while giving pre-loved clothing a second life?

The Alternative All-Gender Clothing Swap offers a different approach to fashion, bringing people together to exchange clothing, discover new styles and embrace more sustainable shopping habits.

Instead of buying everything new, clothing swaps encourage participants to share items they no longer wear and explore pieces that might become new favourites.

It's a great opportunity for fashion enthusiasts, bargain hunters and anyone interested in reducing clothing waste while connecting with others in the community.

Make the Most of November in Durham Region!

With holiday markets beginning, creative workshops to explore and plenty of local entertainment, November is a wonderful time to get out and enjoy everything our communities have to offer.

It's also a great opportunity to support local businesses, discover new places and spend quality time with the people who matter most.

And as we observe Remembrance Day, let's take time to remember and honour those who have served our country.

Whether you live in Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington or elsewhere in Durham Region, there's always something happening close to home.

Enjoy the next couple of weeks, and be sure to check back for more Things To Do In Durham Region & The GTA!

Please note: Event dates, times, admission fees and activities are subject to change. We recommend checking the official event links before attending.

THINKING ABOUT MAKING A MOVE?

Whether you're thinking about buying, selling or simply exploring your options, my team and I are here to help. We provide the local market knowledge, honest advice and personalized guidance you need to make informed decisions about your real estate plans.

If you have any questions or are considering a move, give us a call at 905-683-7800. We'd be happy to help!

Have a great couple of weeks,

Thanks For Reading!

Brian Kondo
Sales Representative / Team Leader
The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team
Re/Max Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.
905-683-7800 office
905-426-7484 direct
brian@briankondo.com
www.BrianKondo.com
www.BrianKondoTeam.com


If you or anyone you know is considering making a move in the next little while, give me a call or pass on my number ... 905-683-7800 (Office) or 905-426-7484 (Direct).

If you would like to see any of my previous blog posts, please click here!