35 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.

Toronto Christmas Market (Distillery Winter Village)

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 beginnings, the Toronto Christmas Market rebranded as the Distillery Winter Village. It was a scaled down version of the Toronto Christmas Market last year, but it felt exactly the same as the original Toronto Christmas Market to me. There’s winter displays, music, outdoor shopping cabins, food vendors, and all of your favourite Distillery shops and restaurants to visit.

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, 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. And new for 2023, there is a stand making vegan grilled cheese sandwiches that are quite tasty.

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. New for this year, there’s an interactive Gingerbread Person Hunt and a line up of amazing entertainment. Of course, Santa and his elves will be in attandance, as well as a chorus of Christmas carolers.

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.

It is free from Monday to Thursday and during the day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. After 4pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you must purchase a timed ticket online ahead of time. You must arrive during your designated time slot, but you can stay as long as you like. This Toronto Christmas Market starts in mid-November and runs until December 31st.

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: Winter Wonderland Spectacular

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 Winter Wonderland Spectacular 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

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.

There’s also a Ferris wheel, Toronto’s first outdoor wellness playground, a live music series on Fridays, a vendor market series on Saturday afternoons, and family fun on Sundays. Enjoy the 120 foot Tunnel of Lights and the 40 foot long Wish Wall.

Try your hand at outdoor curling, food offerings (tacos and bao buns), holiday shopping pop-ups, and the Disco Mistletoe and Speakeasy Whiskey Bar. Holiday Hills takes place from mid-November to December 31st and it’s free to attend.

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.

Union Winter at Toronto’s Union Station

Union Winter takes place at Toronto’s Union Station from December 1st to February 4th. While it isn’t strictly a Toronto Christmas event as it continues well into the new year, Union Station will have you feeling festive with some holiday decorations. There’s even a Christmas tree on site made out of Jameson bottles.

With numerous boutique shops at Union Station, you can certainly get all of your holiday shopping done. What sets Union Winter apart from other winter and holiday events is its Roller Express. Attend a free roller skating experience at the newly opened TD West Carriageway.

You’ll only need to reserve a spot on Saturday nights. Otherwise, walk up to the event and enjoy. You can bring your own roller skates or rent a pair on site. There are also free skating lessons, immersive activities and activations, and food available for purchase from the snack bar.

There are Christmas events at Toronto’s Union Station happening throughout November and December that change on a daily basis. Stop by for samples of holiday tea or take in a live choir performance. The official events page on the Union Station website has all the details.

Christmas Events in Toronto: Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest

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

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

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. The Nathan Phillips Square ice rink is scheduled to open on November 26th.

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

Holiday Fair in the Square is back this year at a new location! In previous years, it took place at Nathan Phillips Square. This year, Holiday Fair in the Square is moving to the heart of North Toronto at Mel Lastman Square. It’s taking place from December 1st – 23rd.

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

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 2nd to January 2nd.

The Holiday Lights Tour is a self-guided walk at Casa Loma that you don’t want to miss. There are brilliant outdoor Christmas lights display every night between December 1st and January 8th. 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

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.

Here are the Christmas and holiday candlelight concerts in Toronto this year:

• Candlelight Jazz: A Charlie Brown Christmas
• Holiday R&B Classics by Candlelight
• Candlelight Holiday Special: The Nutcracker and More at the Paradise Theatre
• Candlelight Holiday Special: The Nutcracker and More at the Metropolitan Church
• All Toronto Candlelight Concerts

Toronto Christmas Events: Holiday Magic at Yorkville Village

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.

Toronto Christmas Events: We Love Willowdale Christmas Market

Join the annual We Love Willowdale Christmas Market and Walking Parade this year. It takes place at Mel Lastman Square on November 25th. The market happens from 2:00pm to 9:00pm, 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

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 24th – 26th, 2023.

One of a Kind Winter Show

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 23rd to December 3rd, 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 4th)
• Junction Triangle Craft Show: Holiday Show (November 19th)
• Toronto Botanical Gardens Holiday Market (November 24-26th, December 15th-17th)
• New Toronto Holiday Market (November 25th)
• A Very Merry Market (310 Danforth Ave, November 25th)
• Holly Berry Fair (November 25th)
• Riverside Holiday Market (November 26th)
• Great Hall Holiday Market (November 26th)
• Leslieville Pop-up Christmas Market (December 1st-3rd)
• Tranzac Holiday Gift Fair (December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17th)
• Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Pop-Up (December 3rd)
• Toronto Vegan Holiday Market (December 9th & 10th)
• Maker Bean Holiday Maker Market (December 9th & 10th)
• Toronto Art Crawl Holiday Market (December 16th)

Allan Gardens Winter Flower Show

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. (This might not be happening in 2023, will update when I find out!).

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.

Closer to the west end of the city, Etobicoke or Mississauga? The Centennial Park Conservatory has a Winter Flower Show, too.

Toronto Christmas Events: The Holiday Hideaway Pop-Up

Here’s a brand new Toronto Christmas event, taking place in both Etobicoke and Vaughan! The Holiday Hideaway Pop-up is an unforgettable Christmas event that has rooms upon rooms of holiday themed photo opportunities. Gather your friends and family members to create lasting memories for the holiday season.

Stroll from room to room for different decorations and themes. Each room is equipped with a ring light and tripod, and the staff members can help you capture those perfect shots. It’s an Instagrammers’ dream, but also fun for everyone to create some beautiful Christmas photographs.

The Holiday Hideaway Pop-Up happens from November 1st to December 23rd. You’ll need to purchase tickets in advance to scheduled time slots to avoid disappointment. There are two event spaces: one at 866 The Queensway in Etobicoke and one at Vaughan Mills.

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

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

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. The event starts this year on November 22nd and takes place until December 22nd.

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

The Java Jingle Holiday Bar is happening this year at both locations of Little Sister, starting on November 22nd. You can reserve your spot in advance at either spot. 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.

Mistletoes & Margaritas

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

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

Brand new for 2023, the Park Hyatt Toronto has unveiled their “Holiday Bothy at the Park” for the season. 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?

Folly Jolly Christmas

The Folly Brewpub is hosting Folly Jolly Christmas, the best Toronto Christmas event for beer lovers. This pub is decorated head to toe in Christmas ornaments, lights and decorations. They are serving up a special menu of Christmas cocktails in fun Christmas mugs.

Through until December 24th, $1 from each Christmas cocktail will be donated to the SickKids foundation. You’ll also be able to enjoy their lineup of draft beer as well: Folly Brewing is a micro-brewery focused on farmhouse and mixed fermentation ales.

Tinseltown Toronto

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. The event takes place from November 30th to December 24th. Why not make a night of it and stay over at the Toronto Novotel Centre?

Nordic by BarChef

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 17th to December 31st. The hours are: Thursdays and Fridays 4:00pm to 11:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays 2:00pm to 11:00pm. I recommend making a reservation in advance on their website to avoid disappointment.

Daily Christmas Tree Lighting at the Eaton Centre

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!).

Hudson’s Bay Holiday Windows

This is an 100 year old tradition that’s fun and free if you happen to be walking down Queen Street West. The Hudson’s Bay Company decorates its windows every year for Christmas. You’ll have to pop by to take a peek for yourself, and perhaps get some Christmas shopping done while you’re at it.

This year, the windows will be a little bit different from previous years. Hudson’s Bay is unveiling a new interactive augmented reality experience featuring animatronic vignettes. If you’re wandering around checking out Christmas lights and Christmas events in Toronto, make a detour to these famous festive windows.

Santa Claus Parade in Toronto

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 26th. 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.

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