Most of the key scenes were shot in and around Thunder Bay’s historic downtown and waterfront areas. You’ll recognize the Prince Arthur’s Landing marina, where the town’s main street performances take place. It’s a real public space with a winter skating rink—so yes, you can literally walk where the characters walked.
Another standout is the St. Andrew’s Church on Van Norman Street, which stood in for the film’s quaint community church. If you visit during the holidays, you’ll find it decorated with twinkling lights, just like in the movie. Fun fact: the filmmakers added fake snow to the roof because even Thunder Bay’s generous snowfall wasn’t enough for a Christmas movie vibe on certain days.
Why This Choice Works So Well
Thunder Bay has a distinct northern authenticity that you can’t fake on a soundstage. The city’s mix of rugged lakefront scenery and cozy downtown streets gives the film a grounded, lived-in feel. It’s not a Hollywood backlot—it’s a real community that embraces winter with open arms.
Director Ali Liebert (who also acts in the film) specifically wanted a location that felt both remote and welcoming. Thunder Bay delivers that in spades, with its friendly locals and breathtaking Sleeping Giant formation visible from the shore. For locals, seeing their town on screen was a point of pride—some even acted as extras in the crowd scenes.
Where was Home for Christmas filmed? The House & ALL the Locations
