Adventure Brief
Discover the warmth and flavor of holiday baking at Parkwood's historic kitchen. Learn traditional gingerbread recipes and festive treats in a hands-on workshop.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Discover the warmth and flavor of holiday baking at Parkwood's historic kitchen. Learn traditional gingerbread recipes and festive treats in a hands-on workshop.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, just a willingness to get a little messy
Wildlife
History
Parkwood Historic Site was established in the early 20th century and showcases preserved architecture and local history.
Conservation
The site emphasizes sustainable practices, including proper waste disposal and preservation efforts for the historic buildings.
Parkwood National Historic Site
Discover the warmth and flavor of holiday baking at Parkwood's historic kitchen. Learn traditional gingerbread recipes and festive treats in a hands-on workshop.
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.
Prepare ahead
Bring an apron and be ready to get hands-on in the kitchen.
Arrive early
Arrive 15 minutes before the session begins for a smooth start.
Ask questions
Leverage the opportunity to learn historical tidbits along with baking tips.
Bring friends or family
This workshop is perfect for group fun and holiday bonding.
Apron
Keeps your clothes clean while baking.
Kitchen utensils
All necessary tools will be provided, but bringing your own can add a personal touch.
Notebook
Take notes on tips and recipes to try at home.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the festive moments and finished treats.