We’re expecting the first snowflakes this weekend, and with the arrival of cold and snow, Montrealers are going to want to get off the island and hit the holiday markets and the region’s most beautiful walks.
Unfortunately, not all of us have a car (or access to a friend’s car) for the weekend, and not all adopted Montrealers are comfortable driving in the snow for long periods.
For a visit to a Christmas market by bus and a stroll around a lake with hot chocolate, we’re taking the bus to Sherbrooke to visit the Marché de la Gare between November 15 and December 22, 2025.
Sherbrooke, Eastern Townships
Sherbrooke is at the heart of the Eastern Townships, one of Quebec’s most beautiful regions for apples, hiking, lakeside cottages and wide-open fields in summer. It’s the cultural and economic center and largest city in the region, and is known as the “Queen of the Eastern Townships”.
It was settled and built by English and American Vermont Loyalists in the late 18th century, and has the gray stone architecture and downtown charm of a Hallmark movie.
In downtown Shebrooke, there’s a large lake in a park where you can stroll in winter and summer, and at the end of the lake the old railway station has been transformed into an incredibly charming farmer’s market…
Marché de la Gare – during the holiday season
For the holiday season, Marché de la Gare is transformed into a bright and delicious Christmas Market.
Every weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout December, there will be holiday-themed activities – carols, bonfires, and maybe even a visit from Santa Claus…
Practical info
Where? 710, Place de la Gare, Sherbrooke
When? November 15 to December 22, 2025
How to get there? Sherbrooke is a 1h45-minute drive from Montreal (roughly) and just over 2 hours by bus with Limocar.
Happy holiday season!