Simcoe County, with its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, has become a popular destination for filmmakers seeking the perfect backdrop for heartwarming Christmas movies. Over the years, several festive films have been shot in the region. Each showcases its beauty, adding a touch of holiday magic to the screen.
Let's take a closer look at some of the beloved Christmas movies filmed in Simcoe County. Each of these features scenes at local destinations in Barrie, Orillia, Midland, Collingwood, Beeton, and more.
1. Christmas Lucky Charm (2022)
Jessica finds herself becoming a lucky charm for her ex-boyfriends, all of whom manage to find their perfect match and marry before Christmas. Despite vowing to steer clear of dating, a handsome artist and gallery owner catches her eye. Eventually, he rekindles her faith in love and romance.
Filming Locations: This romantic holiday film features scenes filmed in Alliston’s Gibson Centre, cozy downtown Beeton, and Barrie’s Homestead Artisan Bakery and Cafe. This is the sixth movie that the cafe has been featured in.
2. Dashing Home for Christmas (2020)
On her journey home for Christmas, Emily faces a series of challenges. But, her luck changes when she meets Simon, a fellow traveler, who lends her a helping hand. Together, they join forces to reach Seattle.
Filming Locations: The town of Orillia became the backdrop for Dashing Home for Christmas. Its scenic streets and warm-hearted community perfectly reflect the spirit of the film, making it an ideal location for a heartwarming Christmas story. You can also catch glimpses of scenes filmed in Barrie.
3. Snowbound For Christmas (2019)
During the festive Christmas season, Rachel and her boss Adrian find themselves trapped by a snowstorm. Soon, they come to unexpected realizations about their relationship.
Filming Locations: Horseshoe Resort sets the scene for Snowbound For Christmas. The winter wonderland backdrop adds a touch of magic to this romantic Christmas tale.
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4. Christmas Wedding Planner (2017)
A wedding planner's world is turned upside down when a private investigator enters her life. The connection leads to unexpected romance and Christmas-themed wedding magic.
Filming Locations: This romantic comedy was filmed in Bradford, Kettleby, and other small towns between Barrie and Newmarket. Locations include Holland St near Village Inn in Bradford, The Goulash House in Newmarket, and skating at The Riverwalk Commons.
5. A Very Country Christmas (2017)
When a country music star returns home for the holidays, she finds herself reconnecting with her roots and rediscovering the true meaning of Christmas.
Filming Locations: Barrie and Alliston provide the setting for A Very Country Christmas. In the film, you can spot locations like The Circle Theatre and Alliston Memorial Arena. Some scenes also take place at Kenzington Burger Bar in Barrie.
6. Christmas With A View
In Christmas with a View, a talented chef finds herself working at a prestigious restaurant with a breathtaking view of the mountains. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, she finds unexpected romance with a charming executive chef. Together, they navigate the challenges of the culinary world and discover the true flavors of love and Christmas.
Filming Locations: This delightful holiday romance was primarily filmed in Barrie and at nearby locales including Horseshoe Resort.
7. A Christmas Village (2018)
Piper Jansen, a savvy public relations expert, faces a public scandal jeopardizing her book launch and business. To salvage her reputation, she volunteers to help struggling single father Tim White revive his failing Christmas Village, leading to unexpected love and holiday cheer in the most unexpected of places.
Filming Locations: A Christmas Village was filmed in several different locations around Simcoe County and Muskoka. Specific places you can catch glimpses of in the movie include: Georgian College in Barrie, Renegade Health Bar, Five Points Theatre, Groovy Tuesday’s Bistro, Barrie Bean Counter, Holly’s Sweets & Eats, and Santa’s Village.
8. Santa’s Got Style (2022)
During the Christmas season, an executive at a department store devises a unique promotional idea for a menswear sponsor. Instead of the traditional Santa Claus, Madison proposes a stylish Santa to attract female shoppers. Unbeknownst to her, close friend Ethan takes on the role and disguises himself to show he can be more than a friend.
Filming Locations: This is another Christmas romance that features sets across Simcoe County. Key locations include the Southshore Bible Church, Grey Pine Studio, Drysdale’s Tree Farm, and Brain Power Studio.
9. Cup Of Cheer (2020)
This quirky comedy pokes fun at the cheesy Christmas movies that many have come to love during the holiday season. It follows Mary, a cheerful barista, who discovers a world of cutthroat coffee competitions as she aims to win the coveted Cup of Cheer championship. Along the way, she finds unexpected friendships, love, and the true spirit of the holiday season.
Filming Locations: Filmed in Orillia, this movie captures the town's cozy atmosphere, with scenes at Bakes By The Lake, the Orillia Public Library, Eclectic Cafe, Hog N Penny, and the Leacock Museum.
10. A Christmas Dance Reunion (2021)
Lucy, an accomplished lawyer, reunites with her childhood Christmas dance partner, Barrett, sparking a passionate connection as they work together to rejuvenate the resort.
Filming Locations: Horseshoe Resort and Deerhurst Resort come together to create the beautiful Winterleigh Resort in this film. These locations capture the spirit of the holiday season, making it a heartwarming experience for viewers.
11. A Christmas Exchange (2020)
Two families from different backgrounds find their lives intertwined when they participate in a Christmas house swap. Through a series of hilarious and heartwarming events, they learn valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.
Filming Locations: A Christmas Exchange was filmed in Barrie, Newmarket, and Scotland.
12. Love, Alaska (2019)
Upon her Uncle Tobias's passing, Dr. Maggie Richards returns to her hometown of Love, Alaska, inheriting his medical clinic and estate after years away. As she reconnects with her changed high school sweetheart, Finn O'Rourke, both face emotional challenges amidst the town's romantic atmosphere, complicating their budding relationship during the town's annual Operation Love event.
Filming Locations: Love, Alaska was filmed in Barrie, Thornton, and Creemore. These locations beautifully complement the movie's storyline, capturing the magic of love during the holiday season.
Simcoe County is filled with enchanting towns that provided the perfect backdrop for these heartwarming Christmas movies, adding a touch of reality to the magic of the holiday season.
Whether you're watching a royal romance in Alliston or a festive gathering in Barrie, these films offer a unique opportunity to experience the charm and beauty of Simcoe County during the most wonderful time of the year.
