Discover the art of candle making amid the historic landscape of Parkwood. This cozy autumn workshop blends creativity, scent, and scenic charm for a memorable fall experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required—just come prepared to sit and craft.
Wildlife
History
Parkwood National Historic Site was established in 1985 and is renowned for its preserved architecture and lush gardens, offering a perfect setting for creative escapes.
Conservation
The site emphasizes sustainable practices, including waste reduction and eco-friendly candle materials, to ensure the preservation of its historic landscape.
Parkwood National Historic Site
Discover the art of candle making amid the historic landscape of Parkwood. This cozy autumn workshop blends creativity, scent, and scenic charm for a memorable fall experience.
Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Ontario preserves a rich cultural setting and offers a broad calendar of public programming that blends historic interpretation with hands-on experiences. The site presents guided tours and interpreted performances such as Servants' Tours and themed walks, alongside practical workshops in crafts, food, and floral design.
Programming includes seasonal markets like Retro Fest Vendor Market and Winter Fest Vendor Market, community-focused events such as Parkwood Christmas Tours and The Way Home Film Location Bus Tour, and creative workshops covering stained glass, candle making, holiday wreaths, pottery, perfume making, and culinary demonstrations. Several workshops are taught by named instructors or partners noted in event listings — for example, stained glass sessions led by Emilie Shipman-Wight and Meghan Murphy and perfume-making presented by Dakaari Fragrance House. Parkwood also stages horticultural programs in its greenhouses, including floral arrangement workshops and guided garden tours led by site staff.
Parkwood’s event listings show a mix of ticketed and free events and seasonal sell-outs, reflecting active community engagement. The site's public programs combine interpretive tours with hands-on learning opportunities across craft, food, horticulture, and holiday-themed experiences. All descriptions and event listings are presented in third person and reflect the programming and partnerships publicly listed for Parkwood National Historic Site.
Location
Oshawa, Ontario
Located in Oshawa, Ontario
Experiences
58 listed experiences
Tours, workshops, markets and events
Seasonal Events
Holiday & seasonal programming
Markets, workshops, and tours
Designation
National Historic Site
Official historic site designation
Find upcoming dates for guided tours, seasonal markets, and hands-on workshops — reserve tickets early for popular sessions and holiday events.
Arrive early
Get settled and choose your scents before the session begins for a more relaxed experience.
Wear comfortable clothing
You’ll be handling wax and fragrances, so dress casually to stay comfortable.
Reserve in advance
Spaces fill quickly during the fall season—book ahead to secure your spot.
Bring a friend
Make it a social occasion—crafting candles is more fun with company.
Apron
Protect your clothing from wax spills during the candle-making process.
Comfortable clothing
Casual attire suitable for sitting, pouring wax, and scenting candles.
fall
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated in the autumn air; water is best.
Notebook and pen
Jot down favorite scents or ideas for future candles.