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Your quick guide to Canada’s tax holiday

Top winter destinations in Canada

December 13, 2024

Did you know? Québec is home to 10 species of owls during the winter months! These fascinating birds, including the majestic Snowy Owl and the tiny Northern Saw-Whet Owl, migrate to the province and rely on its unique ecosystems to thrive. (via explorecanada)

LIVING
Your quick guide to Canada’s tax holiday

To help Canadians buy the things they need this holiday season, the government announced a GST break for groceries and other holiday essentials. The tax break will begin this Saturday December 14 and continue to mid-February. Depending on where you are, this could mean 5% to 13% savings on select items.

How can you take advantage of this break without overspending? MoneySense has the breakdown:

What’s included?
You’ll get savings on things like:
👶 Children’s clothing and toys
📚 Books
🍏 Food & some alcohol

For example, you could save about $2 on a $40 box of diapers. In Ontario, there’s also a chance for an extra provincial tax break, potentially doubling discounts to 15%.

Things to consider
🛍️ Stocking up on essentials
🔥 Combining GST savings with Boxing Day deals for even bigger discounts

Don’t forget to shop smart
✅ Stick to essentials like diapers, groceries, and other must-haves.
✅ Pair the GST holiday with retailer sales for max savings.
✅ Avoid credit debt.

CANADA EH?
Things to Do Around You

Celebrate Vancouver's Winter Solstice Festival with arts, culture, music, food, workshops, and community activities at Chinatown Plaza Mall on Saturday, December 14, 2024.

Experience Langley's Christmas in the Country at Thunderbird Show Park, featuring dazzling light displays, cozy beer gardens, festive markets, and holiday fun from December 5 to 29, 2024.

Shop Ottawa's Lansdowne Farmers' Market at Aberdeen Pavilion for fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music every Saturday and Sunday from November 23 to December 22, 2024.

Enjoy the magic of Elf, Movie in Concert in Ottawa as the National Arts Centre Orchestra performs John Debney's score live with the film at Southam Hall from December 11 to 13, 2024.

Experience the holiday magic at Toronto's Distillery Winter Village, featuring charming vendor cabins, festive dining, and winter activities, open daily from 10 a.m. until December 31, 2024, with free entry before 4 p.m. on select days.

Bask in the Winter Glow at Sankofa Square in Toronto. From December 5 to 22, 2024, enjoy dazzling lights, carnival rides, games, festive entertainment, and brand experiences, all in the heart of the city.

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TRAVEL
Top winter destinations in Canada

Welcome to your first Canadian winter! Whether you’re new to the country or just exploring your options, these magical destinations will make you fall in love with the season. Here are our top 3 picks from Real Style Network’s list:

1. Banff, Alberta
🎿 Home to world-class ski spots like Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.
❄️ Try snowshoeing, ice skating on frozen lakes, or relaxing in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

2. Quebec City, Quebec
⛄ Experience the Carnaval de Québec, a festive wonderland of ice sculptures and snow activities.
🏰 Stroll through Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets lit up in winter magic.

3. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
🌠 Watch the northern lights dance across the sky for an unforgettable experience.
❄️ Explore the Ice Road or join in on the Snowking Winter Festival.

ART & ENTERTAINMENT
Netflix gems that were filmed in Ontario!

Looking for your next binge-worthy watch? BlogTO recently listed Netflix releases filmed in Ontario that will make you proud of your local spots.

1. The Madness
🌉 Filmed at Toronto’s iconic Underpass Park, East York’s Ritz Restaurant, and the stunning Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres.
🎭 Stars Coleman Domingo in a gripping limited series full of drama and suspense.

2. Meet Me Next Christmas
💕 A romantic holiday film starring Christina Milian.
🎭 Features gorgeous Toronto locations like The Opera House, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and Queen’s Park.

3. Geek Girl
🏙 While set in London, England, this fashion-world comedy sneaks in a couple of episodes filmed in Ottawa.
🌟 Starring House of the Dragon’s Emily Carey.

4. Hot Frosty
🤣 Delightfully campy holiday fun starring Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls) and Dustin Milligan (Schitt’s Creek).
🎄 Ottawa and Brockville transform into the fictional Hope Springs, NY.

OUR PICKS & FAVS


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