Ajax holiday happenings will begin November 13 with a toy and food collection for local families, followed by gift-wrapping pop-ups, performances and community gatherings through December.
The Town of Ajax announced the programme November 12. Its Mayor and Council Toy and Food Drive runs until December 4, giving residents, businesses and community groups several ways to contribute to Ajax charities and families in need.
Gift wrapping supports the donation drive
Three Wrap it Forward evenings will pair ward councillors with professional gift wrappers. Participants can bring a gift to be wrapped in exchange for a toy or non-perishable food donation.
Each session runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at a recreation centre’s main entrance: McLean Community Centre on December 1, Audley Recreation Centre on December 2, and Ajax Community Centre on December 3.
Giving Tuesday falls on December 1, during the same collection period. The Town directs donors to its campaign page for the five drop-off locations, requested items and benefiting charities.
Toys for Tickets also runs November 13 to December 4. The programme accepts new, unwrapped toys in their original packaging; a receipt and the parking violation must be presented, and gift cards are not accepted. Participation is at Town Hall, 65 Harwood Avenue South, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Town’s wording on the required toy value is ambiguous, so confirm the amount and ticket eligibility before purchasing a toy.
December performances and community events
A Very Merry Magic Show brings BenTastic and Magic Mel to the Ajax Centre for the Arts, 78 Church Street South, on December 5. Two performances are announced, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; the Town links to the arts centre for tickets.
On December 6, the Indigenous Craft Circle hosts Our Light Winter Gathering, an Indigenous pop-up market in Audley Recreation Centre’s community halls. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1955 Audley Road North.
Ajax Public Library’s Main Branch will hold Christmas Family Storytime on December 12 from 10 a.m. to noon. The all-ages programme includes crafts and stories and is presented with St. Francis de Sales Women’s League.
Later that day, Bublé Christmas starring Jay Davis is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Ajax Centre for the Arts. The Town describes it as a tribute performance and directs visitors to the centre for tickets and further information.
A family countdown before midnight
The free Family New Year’s Eve Party is scheduled for December 31 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road. Announced activities include crafts, skating with a live DJ and entertainment, ending with an 8 p.m. countdown and balloon drop.
No registration is required, but admission is first come, first served through the Pad 4 entrance, with no re-admission after leaving. Helmets are recommended for everyone skating. Families should check the event’s helmet requirements before attending.
The announcement also points families to winter-break recreation options. Details of a New Year’s Levee will be released later; no date is stated. The town’s previously announced Santa parade and menorah lighting also remain on its seasonal calendar.
Source
Town of Ajax: Holiday Happenings announcement, November 12, 2026; official donation drive and Toys for Tickets guidelines; Family New Year’s Eve event information.
