Cozy Season in Oshawa: New Eats, Holiday Markets & Festive Things to Do

After what has been a beautiful spooky season, it is time to fall back into another cozy season. One of the things I take joy in is tasting foods from around the world. A culture’s cuisine is intriguing to me, and one of the quiet luxuries I indulge in. As this year gets closer and closer to its end, I anticipate that my Spotify Wrapped will again say that my listening age is 30 years older than I actually am. I predict that I will have met my goal when it comes to getting my steps in. But what I already know for certain is that whatever the algorithm, it will be true that the most content I consume is cooking shows, meal prep videos, and any channel where people try new food for the first time.

That is why I am excited to check out one of Oshawa’s newest restaurants, Boom Korean Fried Chicken (555 Rossland Road East). Youtube has exposed me to some of these foods, including spicy yangnyeom, tteok-bokki, and a host of other Halal-certified dishes. As the season for soups and stews draws nearer, I am excited to make my own reaction videos to what Oshawa’s food scene has to offer.

At 1800 Simcoe Street North you will find another business new to Oshawa: Kinton Ramen. Savoury is my favourite, especially as my palette starts to crave umami and earthy flavours. I have heard a lot about how delicious karaage fried chicken is, and I am excited to find out for myself! They also have gyoza (a favourite of mine) and cheesecake on offer. For fall, they had a Yokai cream soda specialty drink and a really cool Halloween costume contest. The grand prize was free ramen for a year, second prize was a pair of Toronto Maple Leafs tickets and a Kinton Ramen hoodie, while third prize was a Kinton Ramen merch pack including a bottle, duffle bag, and hoodie. The vegetarian options on their menu also look filling and flavourful. This is definitely on my list of go-to spots after work.

There is much debate about what should go on a pizza. As far as I’m concerned, we are so far removed from the pizza’s origins that anything is fair play. I am still on the hunt for the best meatless pizza. I’m thinking something with mushrooms, olives, caramelized onions, and feta, paired with a delicious cabernet sauvignon. But you’re not likely to find that at Culture Crust, a Canadian chain serving Indian-inspired pizzas. Head over to 472 Taunton Road West, Unit #9 for pie flavours such as samosa chat, butter masala, tandoori, chicken tikka, and the Jain green wave. Even simple dishes such as their cheesey bread look delicious. With even more staples such as burgers, wings, pasta, poutine, momos, and desserts, for a dose of flavours from around the world in a share-friendly format, Culture Crust is the new kid on the block.

Aside from foodie influencer videos, this is also the time of year when camera rolls will be filled with the family and friends making memories and greetings of the season. As we compost our pumpkins and defrost Mariah Carey, Santa’s Cottage is already prepared for visitors. From November 1^st to December 23^rd patrons can choose from a 15-miniute visit with Santa, the North Pole Pass (which includes a 30-minute visit to Mrs. Claus’ bakery), Jingle Mingle (including a 5-minute visit with Santa in his office then 25 minutes to explore the outdoor gallery), or the chance to decorate cupcakes and your own ornament to take home. If you’re anything like me, the lead up to Christmas is more fun than the actual day. As days get shorter and the weather slowly gets colder, the little things that bring us joy become more and more precious.

As Oshawa continues to extend its reputation as a cultural hub, a gritty city, and a destination with the coolest fringe festivals, November 20^th is the annual Merry and Bright Market. From 5pm to 9pm, head to City Hall (50 Centre Street South) to see FireGuy dazzle with his pyrotechnical skills, dance at a silent disco at the McLaughlin Branch of the Oshawa Public Library, and be sure to stay for the park illumination for a magnificent tree lighting. Check out the City of Oshawa website for more details. I have been attending this event for years. As I always say, it is super important to support local businesses, especially small businesses. I typically spend my money on handmade arts or crafts, and definitely the street food that warms me up. I am also sure to give some of my funds to the animals who also deserve to be safe, warm, and fed. I can’t think of a better way to get one-of-a-kind gifts while also supporting my community.

Parkwood Estates is another pillar in the Oshawa community that always has something festive going on. Throughout the month of November, head to 270 Simcoe Street North with all your best pals to make memories you’ll share forever. From painting a foggy pine forest with watercolours (November 7^th from 1pm-3pm), wire wrapping meaningful rings (November 8^th from 1pm-3pm), making winter candles and swag (November 14^th from 9am-12pm), making candles and chunky knit blankets (November 14^th from 12:30pm-4:30pm), decorating farmhouse Christmas cookies (November 20^th from 6pm-8pm, making gemstone bracelets (November 29^th from 10am-12pm), or crafting winter wreaths (November 29^th from 1pm-4pm), November is truly the time to see all the friends and family you are likely to miss during the busy times in December. My personal favourite is Grinchmas at Parkwood on November 27^th and 28^th. For one hour, patrons can “Step into a whimsical winter wonderland at Parkwood for an unforgettable family experience inspired by everyone’s favourite green holiday grump! Join us for an event full of holiday cheer served afternoon tea-style, featuring a delicious assortment of festive treats, hot chocolate, sweet surprises and a little bit of Grinchy mischief.

Children will enjoy hands-on holiday crafts and activities, and families can capture the moment with a special visit and photo opportunity from our mischievous guest himself!” All of Parkwood’s events require a ticket so be sure to sign up. Some events are already sold out, as they do every year. Especially as the snow starts to fall and the grounds get even prettier, this location has programming for the whole family, even the grumpiest ones!

If you’re into cozy season and want to taste all the new spots in town before it’s weeks or months of visiting family and having homecooked favourites, now is your chance. Or, if you cannot wait to get into the Christmas spirit, be sure to check out all the festivities that are calling your name. Bring your friends to these events, take photos, post about them, and let’s keep the good times coming all the way into 2027!