45 Best Toronto Christmas Events to Experience (2024)

Christmas in Toronto is a truly magical time of year. It’s one of my favourite places to ring in the holiday season as there are so many amazing Toronto Christmas events. There are so many beautiful places to see Christmas lights in Toronto, as well as stunning Christmas markets and events, too.

I visit many of these Toronto Christmas events year after year, although there are new spectacular markets, light displays, and holiday pop-ups happening each year. As a local, I’ve been updating this list of Christmas events in Toronto for years.

There are always new and exciting things to see and do. Whether you’re starting new Canadian holiday traditions with your family or you’re visiting Toronto this winter, there are so many Toronto Christmas celebrations to keep you entertained.

For those who love Christmas markets in Toronto and beyond, take a look at the best Christmas markets in Canada and Christmas markets in Ontario, including the famously popular one at the Distillery District in Toronto.

Looking for things to do in Toronto in December? Here are my top suggestions for holiday events in Toronto that’ll have you feeling festive right through the entire month.

Where: The Distillery District
When: November 13th – January 5th, 2025

While Christmas markets originated in Germany, the Toronto Christmas Market is the first one I ever attended. It takes place every year at the historic Distillery District. The cobblestone streets of this pedestrian area is the perfect backdrop for a Christmas market. If you’re looking to celebrate Christmas in Toronto, the Toronto Christmas Market will surely top your list of festivities.

Since its humble beginnings, the Toronto Christmas Market rebranded as the Distillery Winter Village. There are winter displays, Christmas lights, festive music, quaint wooden stalls, and food vendors. Plus, all of your favourite Distillery shops and restaurants are open for business.

Like many traditional Christmas Markets, there are dozens of open air stalls selling handmade crafts and sumptuous treats. I’ve found tons of vegan eats at the Distillery Winter Market, like Beyond Meat bratwurst, grilled cheese sandwiches, vegan and gluten-free butter tarts, and Eva’s Original Chimney cakes. Don’t miss stopping by Balzac’s for a flavoured latte or hot chocolate.

You also won’t want to miss the massive Christmas tree at the Distillery District. It’s the perfect centerpiece for the dazzling twinkling lights displays all around. The official tree lighting ceremony takes place this year on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024.

As the Toronto Christmas Market is one of the busiest holiday events in Toronto, it can be quite crowded on Friday nights and weekends. I recommend going on a weekday if you can manage it. It’s free on weekdays and it won’t be nearly as busy.

Advanced tickets are required every Thursday to Sunday after 4:00pm, and daily from December 12th to 31st. You must purchase the tickets online as there is no in-person box office. Tickets are also required on Wednesday, November 13th for the tree lighting ceremony.

Looking for where to stay? My choice for the top Toronto hotel near the Toronto Christmas Market is the Broadview Hotel. Book your stay at the Broadview Hotel and here are some reviews by fellow travelers.

Illuminarium: Winterland

Where: Illuminarium, The Distillery District
When: Wednesday, November 13th – Thursday, December 31st, 2024 (Select Dates)

Illuminarium is also located at the Distillery District, so why not check out these magnificent illuminations during your trip to the Distillery Winter Village? Illuminarium’s Winterland offers an immersive holiday experience with its amazing light projections set to Christmas music.

You’ll be transported to various dreamlands like Christmas villages, view the northern lights at the North Pole, and zoom inside Christmas decorations. There’s so much wonderment captured at Illuminarium as you soak up these dazzling displays. There are so many photo opportunities in this 360 degree immersive show.

If you are attending the Distillery Winter Village during a ticketed time, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket or a combo ticket on their website. Otherwise, if you visit the Illuminarium on Monday – Thursday or Friday afternoon, there’s no need for a ticket to the Distillery Christmas Market.

Toronto Christmas Events: Holiday Hills at Stackt Market

Where: Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: November 15th – December 31st, 2024

Holiday Hills is back at Stackt Market! This is a unique marketplace in Toronto where the shops are made out of shipping containers. The entire market will transform into a winter wonderland with immersive photo installations, beautiful holiday ambience, small business Christmas shopping, and community workshops and programs.

Enjoy the 100 foot Tunnel of Lights with the lit CN Tower as the perfect backdrop. There are curated vendor markets and pop-ups by local small businesses. Experience the Gaming Zone, a 5000 square foot winter patio with curling, fire pits, s’mores huts and activations. With cocktails at the Speakeasy Whiskey Bar and dozens of culinary delights, you’ll love this free Christmas event in Toronto.

My choice for accommodations near the Stackt Holiday Market is the Hotel X by Library Hotel Collection. Book your stay at the Hotel X and check out these reviews by fellow travelers.

Do you find that the Distillery Winter Village is a bit too busy? Simply walk down the street to the St. Lawrence Market to enjoy their own smaller holiday market, the St. Lawrence Winter Market.

This is a free event and it runs from Thursday to Sundays in December. There are outdoor stalls on Market Street featuring artisanal products, delicious seasonal food and drink and entertainment, too.

On Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm, there are free photos with Santa. There is a schedule of events for the live entertainment on their website. Otherwise, enjoy the festive ambiance, shopping, and food and drink.

Toronto has been graced with another Christmas market! This one is brand new and it’s located at the Harbourfront Centre, brought to you by Street Eats Market.

There’s a giant Christmas tree, festive food and drink, holiday decorations and all the makings for a wonderful holiday market. It’s also free to visit, no advance reservations required.

Other unique offerings at this Christmas event in Toronto? A Scandinavian-style bar inside igloos, food trucks and a vendor lane, a warming zone with s’mores, and of course, an outdoor market.

Christmas Events in Toronto: Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest

Where: Canada’s Wonderland
When: November 16th – January 4th, 2025 (Select Dates)

If you’re looking to create brand new Canadian Christmas traditions, one of the top theme parks in the country has an exciting new winter event. Canada’s Wonderland, a thrilling theme park in the Greater Toronto Area is hosting WinterFest on select nights from mid-November until the end of December.

While many of the rides are closed for the season, Canada’s Wonderland will magically transform into a winter wonderland. You’ll be enchanted by Christmas lights and decorations, magical performances, a skating rink, a nightly tree lighting celebration, and activities like cookie decorating and making crafts.

Some family rides for the kiddos will be open for WinterFest. For the adults, you can treat yourself to craft beer and Ontario wine. WinterFest is one of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Toronto, and it’s truly wonderful that this beloved amusement park of the GTA has extended its operational days into December.

My choice for the best place to stay near Canada’s Wonderland is the Novotel Toronto Vaughan Centre. Book your stay at the Novotel in Vaughan and check out these reviews by fellow travelers.

Christmas at Nathan Phillips Square

Nathan Phillips Square is a main hub of Toronto Christmas events throughout the holiday season. The celebrations begin with the Cavalcade of Lights in late November and continue with a Christmas market, an ice skating rink, and Toronto’s Christmas tree.

Cavalcade of Lights

Where: Nathan Phillips Square
When: TBD (late November)

The Cavalcade of Lights marks the official start to celebrating Christmas in Toronto. It’s one of the best Canadian Christmas traditions in the city, happening annually for over 50 years. It’s Toronto’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a DJ skating party, circus arts performances, live music, and an impressive fireworks display at the end of the night.

Don’t worry if you miss the Cavalcade of Lights event. The Christmas tree and the lights display will illuminate the square every night throughout the holiday season, right up until January 7th. One of the best things to do in Toronto in December is visit Nathan Phillips Square to view the giant Christmas tree and all of the dazzling lights.

Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Where: Nathan Phillips Square
When: TBD (Late November)

This popular outdoor ice skating rink in Toronto is open for drop-in skating as soon as it becomes cold enough outside. The large fountain is transformed into a skating rink for everyone to enjoy.

There are loads of other fantastic outdoor rinks in Toronto to go ice skating. You can also sharpen your skates and head to the Harbourfront Centre for their large skating rink.

The Bentway also has an ice skating trail, and there are skate rentals on-site. The Barbara Ann Scott Ice Trail at College Park is a hidden gem when it comes to skating rinks in the city. For more ice skating, check out our blog post about the best things to do in Toronto in winter.

Toronto Christmas Events: Holiday Fair in the Square

Where: Mel Lastman Square
When: December 6th – 23rd, 2024

Holiday Fair in the Square is back this year at Mel Lastman Square. It moved from Nathan Phillips Square a couple of years back and remains at its newer location.

It combines the charming traditional Christmas market with a bustling winter carnival, vendor booths and artisan market, a midway with rides and games, food trucks, performances, a bar with mulled wine, and more. You’re also welcome to lace up your ice skates and glide around the skating rink on site, too.

Looking for where to stay near Mel Lastman Square? Book your stay at the Novotel Toronto North York which is only a short walk away. Check out reviews by fellow travelers to learn more about this property.

Casa Loma’s Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights

Where: Casa Loma
When: December 5th – January 4th, 2025

Yes, Toronto’s castle is all ready for the holidays, too. Casa Loma has two Christmas events: Christmas at the Castle and the Holiday Lights Tour. They are among the top things to do in Toronto in December. If you haven’t visited Casa Loma yet, now is the time!

At Christmas at the Castle, you’ll find holiday decor, an impressive 40 foot tall Christmas tree in the Great Hall, and eight other Christmas trees by Canadian designers. There are also wintery holiday mascots and Santa for the kids and kids at heart! Christmas at the Castle happens on select dates from December 5th to January 4th.

The Holiday Lights Tour is a self-guided walk at Casa Loma that you don’t want to miss. Wander through dazzling lights in the gardens and tunnels. For those looking to celebrate Christmas in Toronto, the activities and displays at Casa Loma are experienced you need to check out.

If you’re searching for the best hotel near Casa Loma, book your stay at the Kimpton Saint George Hotel. For more information, read more reviews of this hotel by trusted travelers.

Candlelight Concerts in Toronto

Where: Various locations around Toronto
When: Dates throughout December

There are quite a few holiday-themed Candlelight Concerts in Toronto this year. Have you ever treated yourself to a Candlelight Concert? Essentially, they usually celebrate a theme or an artist. Classically-trained musicians put on a brilliant performance, surrounded by the ambiance of flickering candles.

Toronto Christmas Events: Holiday Magic at Yorkville Village

Where: The Village of Yorkville Park
When: November 23rd – December 31st, 2024

This is one of the best free things to do in Toronto during the Christmas season. Bloor-Yorkville is one of the best places in Toronto for Christmas decorations. Check out Holiday Magic for their beautiful display of lights.

Go for a stroll around Yorkville Village with a hot chocolate or coffee in your hand from a nearby cafe. There are also 138 illuminated Christmas trees along Bloor Street. Go for a walk around Bloor-Yorkville on a December evening to soak up the holiday cheer.

For a hotel near Yorkville Village, book your stay at the Kimpton Saint George Hotel. For more information, read more reviews of this hotel by trusted travelers.

Toronto Christmas Events: We Love Willowdale Christmas Market

Where: Mel Lastman Square
When: Saturday, November 30th, 2024

Join the annual We Love Willowdale Christmas Market and Walking Parade this year. It takes place at Mel Lastman Square on November 30th. The market happens from 2:00pm to 8:00pm, the parade starts at 5:30pm on Yonge Street and concludes with the festive tree lighting at 6:30pm.

The Market includes 60+ local artisans, hot chocolate, food trucks, live entertainment, and arts and crafts for the kids. There’s also a family photo booth and of course, Santa Claus! The suggested donation to attend is $5 (for adults and those aged 13+) and all proceeds support under-resourced folks in their community.

Toronto Christmas Events: Weston Winterfest

Where: Weston Road at Lawrence Ave West
When: November 22nd – 24th, 2024

Weston Winterfest is a three day event that takes place on the last weekend of November. This is a holiday event that celebrates the coming of the winter solstice, with seasonal activities that are for everyone from all backgrounds and faiths.

Enjoy ice sculptures, kids activities, a s’mores station, a photo booth, a vendor market (outdoor and indoor vendors), live entertainment, and more. This year, the festivities take place from November 22nd – 24th, 2024.

One of a Kind Winter Show

Where: Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place
When: November 21st – December 1st, 2024

The One of a Kind Winter Show is the best place to do your holiday shopping this year. It’s one of the largest craft shows in North America, featuring 800 artists and artisans with thousands of unique gifts. It takes place annual at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place.

The One of a Kind Show takes place from November 21st to December 1st, giving you plenty of time to find something special for everyone in your life. You’ll find original artwork, handmade crafts, eco-friendly gifts, unique clothing items, jewelry, ceramics, and so much more.

One of the best reasons to visit the One of a Kind Winter Show is for the sampling stations. There are lots of yummy treats to buy at the show, and you almost always get to try before you buy! Bring an empty stomach to the event because you can easily sample a meal’s worth of treats throughout the day. The One of a Kind Christmas Show is one of the best places to go shopping for Christmas in Toronto.

My top recommendation for accommodations near the One of a Kind Winter Show is the Hotel X by Library Hotel Collection. Book your stay at the Hotel X and check out these reviews by fellow travelers.

More Local Christmas Artisan Markets in Toronto

There are many Christmas craft markets and holiday artisan markets all over Toronto and the GTA. Here is a quick list of where to find unique gifts for the holiday season:

• Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market (November 2nd)
• Swedish Christmas Fair (November 23rd & 24th)
• Junction Triangle Craft Show: Holiday Show (November 24th)
• Toronto Botanical Gardens Holiday Market (November 22-24th, December 13th-15th, 2024)
• Riverside Holiday Market (November 24th)
• New Toronto Holiday Market (November 30th)
• Leslieville Pop-up Christmas Market (December 6th-8th)
• Holiday Artisan Market (December 8th)
• Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Pop-Up (December 1st)

Allan Gardens Winter Flower Show

Where: Allan Gardens Conservatory
When: No event in 2024 due to restoration efforts.

Kicking off the month of December, Allan Gardens Conservatory hosts its Winter Flower Show. Until the beginning of January, you’ll be able to see thousands of flowering plants, including 30 varieties of poinsettias. Allan Gardens features six greenhouses, and it’s a fabulous place to warm up on a cold, winter day. Plus, it’s one of the best free things to do in Toronto.

Christmas by Candlelight is a special event throughout the Winter Flower Show. On select evenings, Allan Gardens has extended hours until 7:00pm. You’ll be able to view the plants and flowers by candlelight at one of the most magical Christmas events in Toronto. Closer to the west end of the city, Etobicoke or Mississauga? The Centennial Park Conservatory has a Winter Flower Show, too.

My top choice for where to stay in Toronto near Allan Gardens is the Chelsea Hotel Toronto. Book your stay at the Chelsea Hotel and check out these reviews by fellow travelers.

Christmas Themed Bars and Cocktail Lounges in Toronto

If you’re still looking for things to do in Toronto this weekend, why not cap off your evening with a delicious holiday cocktail? There are a few Christmas bars and cocktail lounges in Toronto that are only open for the holidays.

Miracle on Bloor Street

Where: Miracle, 875 Bloor Street West
When: November 15th – December 29th, 2024

Miracle Toronto is a pop-up Christmas themed bar on Bloor Street. You’ll find Christmas wrapping paper adorning the walls, twinkling lights and decorations everywhere, and holiday boozy beverages. There’s Miracle on Bloor Street and its holiday tiki sister bar, Sippin’ Santa. Both are located at Bloor and Ossington.

Aromas of cinnamon loft through the air as you sip drinks like the Snowball Old Fashioned and the Bad Santa. There are 10 different Christmas cocktails in total, and the pop-up bar remains open until Boxing Day. It’s the perfect way to end a day of Toronto Christmas shopping, and a really fun place to gather your friends to celebrate Christmas in Toronto. And don’t miss the bear that hugs you for a photo opp!

My top choice for a hotel in Toronto near this Christmas popup bar is the Gladstone Hotel. Book your stay at the Gladstone Hotel and check out these reviews by travelers who have stayed there.

The Thirsty Elf at the Fairmont Royal York

Where: The Fairmont Royal York (2nd Floor)
When: TBD (late November to December)

The Fairmont Royal York is hosting a fun Christmas bar called The Thirsty Elf during the holidays. This place is like sitting inside of a Christmas present! There’s kitschy decor from floor to ceiling and loads of festive cocktails.

While many holiday events in Toronto require reservations, walk-ins are accepted at The Thirsty Elf. While you are welcome to make reservations, you can likely visit this one at the spur of the moment, too. You can also make a total vacation out of it by spending the night at the Fairmont Royal York.

Java Jingle Holiday Bar

Where: 102 Portland St. and 2031 Yonge St
When: November 15th to December 31st

The Java Jingle Holiday Bar is happening this year at both locations of Little Sister. There are 17 cocktails and 2 holiday festive shooters, as well as full menus. Make sure you snag a drink in one of those nostalgic Grinch mugs. Enjoy holiday movie trivia, an ugly sweater contest, and half-priced Java Jingle cocktails from December 29th to 31st.

Mistletoes & Margaritas

Where: Papa Chulo’s, 121 Ossington Ave
When: Wednesday, October 30th – December 31st, 2024

Papa Chulo’s is hosting its amazing Mistletoes & Margaritas pop-up event this year once again, starting on November 18th. There will be festival lights and dazzling holiday decor everywhere you look. Try the eggnog martini or the mistletoe margarita, and be sure to wear your favourite ugly Christmas sweater or Santa hat.

Project Gigglewater Holiday Bar

Where: Project Gigglewater
When: TBD

Project Gigglewater goes all out for the holiday season! They close down the bar for a couple of days to transform it into a magical Christmas wonderland. This cocktail bar in Toronto has delicious festive drinks and food items on the menu, too.

Try their fun and festive Christmas shots, a North Pole spritz, a Gingerbread Negroni, a Whisky Wonderland, Uncle Terry’s Mule, and so many more. Grab your best pals for all the festive fun and holiday cheer.

Holiday Bothy at the Park

Where: The Park Hyatt Toronto
When: TBD

The Park Hyatt Toronto unveiled their “Holiday Bothy at the Park” last year. This year, it’s back as “Holiday Bothy Reimagined“. Inspired by rustic cabins in Europe, Park Hyatt’s Holiday Bothy will whisk you away on a multi-sensory festive experience for the holidays.

A “bothy” is a cabin in remote mountains of Europe to provide shelter for hikers and adventurers. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails inspired by the holiday season, and there’s a food menu to match. This is one of the best Toronto Christmas cocktail bars this year.

Visit Holiday Bothy at the Park from Thursday to Sunday, starting at the end of November through to January 1st. The hours are Thursday and Friday from 4pm to 12am, Saturday from 12pm to 12am, and Sunday from 12pm to 10pm. This event is walk-in only, no reservations. And why not make a trip of it and spend the night the Park Hyatt Toronto, too?

Tinseltown Toronto

Where: Toronto Novotel Centre
When: December 1st – 30th, 2024

Tinseltown Toronto is a festive pop-up taking place at the Toronto Novotel Centre. This Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar will feature festive decor, Christmas tunes, winter warmer drinks and a whole menu of Christmas cocktails. They’ll also have non-alcoholic drinks available, too.

They only have one rule: no grinches allowed! To attend Tinseltown: The Christmas Speakeasy, you’ll need to book your tickets in advance from their website that I’ve linked to above. TWhy not make a night of it and stay over at the Toronto Novotel Centre?

Nordic by BarChef

Where: The Well, Wellington Street West
When: November 13th – December 22nd, 2024

Nordic by BarChef is a brand new immersive experience at The Well on Wellington Street West. As described on their website, you’ll “delve into a mystical realm of libations and wonder”. Holiday at The Well is a Christmas cocktail experience like no other.

Wander into a cozy yurt or stay warm in the fire pit lounge. Take in a musical stage performance as you sip completely reimagined holiday cocktails by expert mixologists.

This event takes place from November 13th to December 22nd. The expanded hours are: Wednesdays to Fridays 4:00pm to 12:00am, Saturdays 2:00pm – 1:00am and Sundays 2:00pm to 12:00am. I recommend making a reservation in advance on their website to avoid disappointment.

More Holiday Bars in Toronto

Here are a few more seasonal bars in Toronto to enjoy festive drinks and sensational decor:

• Melody’s Holiday Comforts and Cocktails
• Ginger’s Cocktail Bar
• Kōst Chalet
• Ricky and Olivia
• The Tipsy Reindeer

Daily Christmas Tree Lighting at the Eaton Centre

Where: Eaton Centre
When: Mid-November to December 31st, 2024

Toronto’s Eaton Centre is home to one of the most magical indoor Christmas lights displays in the city. While the initial Christmas tree lighting is always a massive spectacle, you can witness the magic throughout November and December.

At CF Winterville inside the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, watch the daily tree lighting and snow show. This 114′ Christmas tree lights up with festive scenes dancing across the tree. You’ll also watch snow gently fall from high up above. To catch a sneak peak, watch my Instagram reel (also be sure to follow us on Instagram while you’re there for more Christmas fun!).

The Nutcracker by the National Ballet of Canada

Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
When: December 6th – 31st, 2024

It’s an annual holiday tradition: James Kudelka’s The Nutcracker by the National Ballet of Canada. Set to Tchaikovsky’s epic score, be prepared to be dazzled by brilliant costumes and choreography. Holiday treats, magical creatures and the twinkling lands of the Sugar Plum Fairy will delight both young and old.

Holidays with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra

Where: Toronto Symphony Orchestra
When: November and December (Select Dates)

Celebrate the holidays with the magnificent auditory backdrop of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. There are several holiday events taking place, including The Nutcracker, Elf in Concert, Messiah, and TSO Holiday Popups. The full rundown of events is available on the official website.

Santa Claus Parade in Toronto

Where: Starts at Christie Pits, ends at St. Lawrence Market
When: November 24th, 2024

Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade is always the event that kicks off the holiday season. It’s been happening since 1905, so it’s a time honoured tradition in the city. This year, the Santa Claus Parade returns on November 24th. It’s a fun and free Christmas event in Toronto.

The parade route starts at Christie Pits and heads down Bloor. Then, it continues down University and eventually ends up at St. Lawrence Market. There will be floats, marching bands, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Can’t attend? The Santa Claus Parade airs on CTV both on TV and online.