FAQ
The questions we get asked most often, and the answers to go with them. If yours isn't here, send us a message.
Is cash accepted at the Village?
We only accept credit and debit card payments across the entire site.
What time is the lighting of the Great tree?
Every evening the Village is open, join us at 6:30 p.m. to experience the magic of our giant tree lighting ceremony!
What are the Village's opening dates and hours?
The Village is open from Thursday, December 10, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, we stay open until 10 p.m.
The Village is closed on December 14, 15, and 16, as well as December 25. You can find the full schedule on the homepage.
How much is admission?
Admission is free for kids 12 and under. For everyone else, general admission is $19.95 plus tax.
A package including admission to the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children's Museum is also available starting at $36.95 plus tax.
Are all attractions included with the ticket?
General admission gives you access to the Village and most of its attractions.
Bubbles & Bites requires an additional ticket, as does the Holiday Concert held inside the Museum.
A package including admission to the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum is also available. And because the magic extends throughout the site, the Canadian Children's Museum will remain open later, until 7 p.m. on Christmas Village evenings.
Do I need to book in advance?
We limit the number of visitors to keep the evening enjoyable for everyone. Buying your tickets in advance is the best way to guarantee entry at your preferred time.
Do kids need a ticket?
Kids 12 and under get in free with a ticket. They also need to be with an adult. For ages 13 and up, general admission is $19.95.
Are some of the ticket proceeds donated to an organization?
Yes. For every ticket sold, $1 is shared between Maison Papillon Enfants et Familles and the Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre.
Protecting the magic of Christmas is great. Supporting those with even more important missions is better.
Is the Village outdoors?
Except for the Gourmet Pavilion, the fun happens outdoors, so bundle up!
Heated areas are available throughout the Village to keep you cozy between attractions.
Can I get food and drinks on-site?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted on site. But don’t worry, plenty of delicious discoveries await you at the Village!
Whether you’re craving something sweet at the Chocolate Foyer, a hearty meal at the Gourmet Pavilion, a variety of tasty treats at the Market of Wonders, or a selection of local products in the cozy atmosphere of Bubbles & Bites overlooking the river, there’s something for everyone!
Is there anything special happening on December 31?
On December 31 at 8 p.m., a spectacular fireworks show presented by the Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy will light up the heart of the Village to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.
How do I get to the Village?
The Village is setting up at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. STO and OC Transpo buses, museum parking, and public street parking: you can find all the details on our Getting Here page.
Is there parking on site?
Yes, paid parking is available at the Canadian Museum of History. It’s the closest option to the Village.
Public and street parking are also nearby, and the area is well-served by public transit. You can find all the details on our Getting here page.
Is the Village accessible to strollers and wheelchairs?
Yes, all main pathways are accessible. Accessible washrooms are available both outdoors on the Village grounds and inside the Museum, next to the Gourmet Pavilion.
How can we reach you?
Email us at info@villagedenoel.ca. It’s the quickest way to reach our team, and someone will get back to you.
What is the Secret Society of the North?
A network of guardians working behind the scenes to spread joy around the world, just as they have since the very first Christmas.
Never heard of them? That’s by design. The Society is secret—it’s right there in the name. Your visit to the Village might just be a test.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Set aside about two hours to wander the Village at your own pace.
Some people move through faster, while others linger at the Chocolate Foyer and stay much longer. There’s no time limit—the Village is yours until we close.
Are tickets timed, or valid all evening?
Your ticket gets you one entry, good for the whole evening. There’s no time limit once you’re inside.
Just a heads-up: leaving is final. Once you head out, you won’t be able to come back in.
What happens if it's windy, if it's raining or if it's −25 °C outside?
The Village stays open. Santa doesn't take the night off because it's cold, and neither do we.
Dress warmly: heated and sheltered spots are scattered across the site to warm you up between stations.
Where are the heated areas?
The Gourmet Pavilion, inside the Museum, is our only fully heated space.
Elsewhere on site, four sheltered stops welcome you: the Chocolate Foyer, tucked inside the Great Tree, Santa's Globe, the Festive Lodge and the Christmas Workshop.
Is there a coat check or storage?
No, the Village doesn't have a coat check or storage lockers. Please plan to keep your coat and bags with you during your visit.
Is there first aid on site?
Yes. First aid services are available on-site during all operating hours.
Which attractions are wheelchair accessible?
All attractions are accessible, with the exception of the Ice Hog Slide, which, due to its nature, may not be suitable for everyone.
Is alcohol served at the Village?
Yes, alcohol is served at the Village.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Only clearly identified and certified service dogs are permitted on-site. Proof of certification will be required upon entry.
Is Museum admission included in the Village ticket?
No, these are two separate tickets. A combined package is available if you'd like to do both.
Can I visit the Museum and the Village the same evening?
The Village is located behind the Canadian Museum of History, making it easy to enjoy both experiences in the same evening!
A package including admission to the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum is also available. The Canadian Children's Museum will remain open later, until 7 p.m. on Christmas Village evenings.
Is the Village also for adults without children?
Yes, just as much as for families.
The Village speaks to the child in all of us, not just the little ones. Bubbles & Bites by the river, the food stops, and the glowing evenings are definitely worth savouring as a couple.
Have other questions?
If our FAQ doesn't answer all your questions, feel free to reach out.
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