Distillery District’s Winter Village
A seasonal staple during Toronto’s holiday season is a visit to the iconic Winter Village at the Distillery District. Previously ranked as one of the best Christmas markets in the world, the Winter Village is a wonderland complete with live performances, artisan stalls, and a glamorous 15 metre tall White Spruce Christmas tree at the heart of the village. Sip on spiced mulled wine or a decadent hot chocolate, shop for Christmas gifts, and enjoy the festive entertainment. Any Swifties in the house? Don’t miss the ‘Swiftie Holiday Hunt’ running from November 14 through 24, where you can win exclusive friendship bracelets, enjoy Taylor-themed cookies, and buy additional bracelets.
When: Opens November 13, 2024
Where: Distillery District – 55 Mill St, Toronto
Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square
Head down to at Nathan Phillips Square and witness Toronto’s official holiday celebration, the Cavalcade of Lights, featuring stunning light installations, ice skating, and musical performances. The annual winter festival kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony on November 30.
When: November 30, 2024 – January 7, 2025
Where: Nathan Phillips Square – 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Casa Loma’s Holiday Lights Tour
Toronto’s iconic castle will once again transform into a winter wonderland this December, where you can embark on their self-guided Holiday Lights Tour. Kids are also invited to visit with Santa in his castle workshop.
When: December 5, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Where: Casa Loma – 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
Toronto Santa Claus Parade
Returning for its 120th year, the Toronto Santa Claus Parade will once again bring together hundreds of thousands of people to witness colourful floats, marching bands, and of course, Kris Kringle himself. This year’s parade happens on Sunday, November 24 and begins at 12:30 p.m. Can’t make it? The event will also be streamed LIVE and on demand on YouTube!
When: November 24, 2024
Starts at 12:30 p.m.
Where: Starts at Bloor and Christie, ends at St. Lawrence Market
Fairmont Royal York’s annual tree lighting ceremony
Celebrate 95 years of holiday magic at the Fairmont Royal York, starting on November 20 with their annual tree lighting ceremony and Front Street window reveal. The Front Street window display will be revealed at 4:30 p.m., followed by the lighting of the lobby’s opulent tree at 5 p.m. complete with guest appearances from Santa, the Candy Cane Carolers, and award-winning jazz vocalist Matt Dusk. Don’t miss their brand new pop-up bar House of York, perfect for a nightcap or festive cocktail.
When: November 20, 2024
Begins at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Fairmont Royal York – 100 Front St W, Toronto
Make memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Hotel X
Stop by Hotel X Toronto this December to create some magical holiday memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Breakfast with Santa is a family-friendly event where guests are invited to join Mr. and Mrs. Claus for a cozy meal, snap merry selfies, share Christmas wishes, and take part in festive activities. You can also book Brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and gather ’round as they share timeless Christmas tales that both children and adults will love. The experience is complete with letter writing, festive treats, and quality time with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Check out their website here for more info and to book!
When: Breakfast with Santa – December 14, 15, 21, 22 from 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus – December 15, 21, 22 from 1 – 2:15 p.m.
Where: Hotel X Toronto – 111 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto
Ice skate at an outdoor rink
This season, glide on the ice at Nathan Phillips Square, Harbourfront Centre, or the picturesque Bentway Skate Trail under a canopy of holiday lights. If you don’t own your own equipment, you can rent skates from many of the City of Toronto rinks onsite. Afterwards, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate!
When: Most ice rinks will reopen late November
Where: Various location
Hudson’s Bay Holiday Windows
For over 100 years, Hudson’s Bay at Queen and Yonge showcases new, iconic storefront displays featuring beautiful holiday-themed scenes with moving figures, twinkling lights, and nostalgic winter charm. It’s the perfect stop while doing your Christmas shopping downtown, and it’s always exciting to see how they’ve incorporated modern technology to outdo the previous year.
When: All December long
Where: Hudson’s Bay – 176 Yonge St, Toronto
“The Nutcracker” by the National Ballet of Canada
A holiday tradition, The Nutcracker is a must-see for those who love the arts. The magical performance features enchanting choreography, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic music. This year, the ballet show dates run from December 6 – 31, 2024.
When: December 6 – 31, 2024
Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts – 145 Queen Street West, Toronto
STACKT Market’s Holiday Hills
Toronto’s most innovative market bringing back their annual Holiday Hills experience, featuring 6 weeks of holiday festivities including a massive tunnel of dazzling lights, a whiskey speakeasy, a champagne bar with gourmet smores, rotating small markets and makers to do your holiday shopping, and free live music Fridays. Holiday Hills will run from November 15 – December 31, 2024.
When: November 15 – December 31, 2024
Where: STACKT Market – 28 Bathurst St, Toronto