Magical Movie Moments – An Abbywood Itinerary

If you’ve ever watched a Hallmark Christmas movie and wished you could step directly into its charming world, Abbotsford is here to make that dream a reality. This city has become a beloved filming destination for holiday classics, transforming its streets, cafés, and historic landmarks into the enchanting backdrops we’ve come to love. This two-day itinerary takes you behind the scenes of Abbotsford’s “Abbywood“, where you’ll visit the exact locations where magic happens on screen and discover your own holiday magic along the way.

📍 Trading Post Brewing

📍 Spruce Collective

DAY 1

Begin your Abbywood adventure with lunch at Trading Post Brewing, the cozy gathering spot featured in Unforgettable Christmas. Whether you’re sipping a warming seasonal brew or enjoying a hearty lunch, this location captures the essence of small-town comfort that Hallmark movies do so well. The welcoming atmosphere and local craft selections make it the perfect kick-off to your holiday journey. You’ll understand why filmmakers were drawn to this gem. It’s the kind of place where Christmas memories are made.

After refueling, head to Spruce Collective in Downtown Abbotsford, where the holiday magic truly multiplies. This charming shopping destination has been featured in an impressive collection of films including A Very Merry Bridesmaid, Christmas Crashers, Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas, A Gift to Cherish, A Family Through Christmas, The Christmas Book, I Spy a Christmas, and Leah’s Perfect Christmas. Browsing its carefully curated boutique offerings, you’ll spot familiar storefronts and realize you’re standing in scenes you’ve watched countless times through film. The festive window displays and charming storefronts create an authentically picturesque holiday shopping experience that feels ripped straight from the screen.

Just a short stroll away, Steam Alley transports you to a nostalgic corner of Abbotsford that’s doubled as a quintessential Christmas movie setting in Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas, Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas, and Leah’s Perfect Christmas. The historic charm and intimate alley atmosphere make it one of the most photogenic spots on the Abbywood trail. Wander through this enchanting area and let yourself imagine the scenes that unfolded here; perhaps a chance meeting, a heartfelt conversation, or a moment of Christmas revelation. This is where Abbotsford’s authentic character shines through on film and in person.

End your first day with dinner at Amici Italian Osteria and Wine Bar, another beloved location from Leah’s Perfect Christmas. There’s something inherently cinematic about sharing a meal at a cozy Italian restaurant during the holiday season, and this spot delivers that feeling in abundance. The warm lighting, delicious cuisine, and intimate setting create the perfect backdrop for an evening of reflection on your day’s journey. As you dine, you might just find yourself in a moment that feels straight out of the movies.

If energy and magic permit, cap off your evening with a spin around the ice at Abbotsford Recreation Centre Ice Experience, the filming location for an astounding array of holiday productions including A Magical Christmas Village, Christmas Town, Unforgettable Christmas, Three Wise Men and a Baby, Write Before Christmas, Christmas Village, Family Under the Christmas Tree, and The Christmas Book to name a few. There’s nothing quite like ice skating during the season to amplify that Hallmark movie feeling.

DAY 2

Start day two with breakfast at Ann Marie’s Cafe, followed by artisanal coffee at The Polly Fox, both featured in Christmas Above the Clouds which premieres on Hallmark on November 8th. These charming morning haunts set the perfect tone for a leisurely, film-worthy day. Settle in with a warm beverage and hearty breakfast to get the day going!

Next, visit the stunning Tanglebank Estates & Botanical Gardens, which graced the screen in Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas. This beautiful property embodies the kind of gracious holiday charm that filmmakers crave and audiences adore. Wander through artfully decorated trees showcasing local community partners, capture picture-perfect moments at festive photo opportunities, and cozy up to classic holiday movies all apart of their brand new Christmas at Tanglebank experience. This dazzling celebration of the season offers the perfect blend of community spirit and Christmas wonder. It’s an enchanting destination that will fill you with holiday joy and create memories to treasure.

Warm up with a wine tasting at Cannon Estate Winery, featured in 12 Clues of Christmas. There’s something magical about holiday wine tasting; perhaps it’s the festive aromas, the clink of glasses, or simply the act of slowing down to savor the moment. This winery captures that perfect blend of indulgence and charm that makes holiday movies so comforting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for seasonal samples, this experience will add a touch of sophistication to your Abbywood adventure.

Spend your afternoon exploring the extensive filming sites of Clayburn Village and Clayburn Village General Store, which has starred in over twenty holiday productions including A Very Vintage Christmas, Christmas by the Book, Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa, Christmas Time is Here, Christmas Town, Engaging Father Christmas, It’s Christmas Eve, Marrying Father Christmas, The Nine Kittens of Christmas, Under the Christmas Tree, and The Christmas Book. This historic village is essentially Abbotsford’s crown jewel for holiday filming, with its perfectly adorable architecture and small-town character creating an authentic backdrop that needs minimal set dressing. Stroll through the village and marvel at how these beloved stories came to life in such an authentically charming setting.

Take a break for lunch and treats at Lepp’s Bakehouse & Delicatessen, which appeared in A Magical Christmas Village. There’s comfort in a bakery during the holidays, whether you’re grabbing fresh bread or indulging in seasonal sweets. This local treasure offers both nourishment and nostalgia, grounding you in the authentic community spirit that makes Abbotsford so special. Every bite connects you to the warmth and generosity that holiday movies celebrate.

Conclude your Abbywood journey at the Mennonite Heritage Museum, featured in An Unexpected Christmas and My Christmas Hero. Beyond its film credentials, this museum offers a genuine glimpse into Abbotsford’s rich cultural heritage. Learning about local Mennonite traditions and stories adds depth to your holiday experience and reminds you that real-life communities often embody the kindness and connection celebrated on screen. This meaningful final stop ties together the magic of Abbotsford; both as a filming destination and as a place where authentic human connection thrives.

📍 Ann Marie’s Cafe / Photo Credit: Hallmark Channel scene from Christmas Above the Clouds

📍 Clayburn Village Store

FIND YOUR STAY

After two days of exploring Abbotsford’s cinematic charm, you’ll appreciate returning to Coast Abbotsford Hotel & Suites, perfectly positioned close to downtown’s shops and restaurants. This hotel offers recently updated accommodations with thoughtful touches like in-room coffee, mini fridges, and free wi-fi. Start each morning with their complimentary continental breakfast before heading out on your Abbywood adventure and unwind in the evening with a swim in the indoor pool or a workout in the fitness centre. The hotel welcomes pets in select rooms, so your furry companions can join you on this movie-worthy getaway. With its comfortable rooms and proximity to all the filming locations on your itinerary, Coast Abbotsford Hotel & Suites makes the perfect backdrop for your own Hallmark-style story.