20 Best Holiday Activities in Toronto for Christmas 2025
Looking for the best Christmas activities in Toronto this year? As a local, I’ve explored them all and rounded up the must-visit holiday events that will make your season extra magical.
With so many Christmas markets, dazzling light displays, and festive celebrations, it’s hard to know which ones truly live up to the hype. Are they family-friendly? Dog-friendly? Worth the time and money? I’ve got you covered!
In this guide, you’ll find the top holiday attractions across the city—whether you’re visiting Toronto for the holidays or looking for new local traditions. Get ready to experience the best of Toronto at Christmas!
Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here.
❄️ Visiting Toronto for the holidays? Stay near the best Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive events! Check winter hotel deals on Expedia.
Best Things to do in Toronto at Christmas
From enchanting holiday markets to dazzling light displays and outdoor ice skating, Toronto offers endless ways to celebrate the season. But with so many options, how do you choose the best ones?
❄️ Keep reading to discover the top festive experiences in Toronto—plus a few surprises you won’t want to miss!
1. Distillery Winter Village (formerly the Toronto Christmas Market)
Cost: Free during the week; tickets required on weekends after 4 p.m.
Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON
Dates: November 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025
The Distillery Winter Village is, without a doubt, one of the most magical Christmas experiences in Toronto. Once known as the Toronto Christmas Market, this beloved holiday event transforms the historic Distillery District into a festive wonderland straight out of a holiday movie.
Set within a beautifully preserved Victorian-era whisky distillery, this pedestrian-only neighbuorhood is home to over 85 charming boutiques, cozy cafés, and artisanal restaurants.
But during the holiday season, it takes on a whole new life. Twinkling string lights drape across the cobblestone streets. A towering Christmas tree sparkles in the centre and market stalls offer unique handmade gifts, festive treats, and holiday cheer.
✨ Insider Tip: The Distillery Winter Village is one of the most popular Christmas attractions in Toronto, and weekends can get extremely busy. For a more relaxed experience, visit on a weekday when tickets aren’t required, or go early in the season to beat the crowds.
Whether you’re sipping on holiday cocktail, indulging in fresh-baked pastries, or picking up unique gifts from local artisans, this holiday village is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
2. WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Cost: Prices range from $32.99 – $39.99 based on dates
Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON
Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Best For: Date nights, friends, and family celebrations
Looking for a larger-than-life holiday experience? WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland is one of Toronto’s top family-friendly winter attractions—though it’s a bit of a trek from downtown, it’s well worth the trip.
Each winter, Wonderland transforms into a holiday spectacular featuring dazzling light displays, festive shows, and 22 thrilling rides. Visitors can glide across Snow Flake Lake, an outdoor skating rink illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, or cozy up by the fire pits with a cup of hot chocolate. For a VIP experience, you can even rent a private igloo!
✨ Family Tip: Kids will love meeting Santa and exploring the holiday-themed attractions, while couples and friends can enjoy a magical winter date night filled with festive lights and seasonal treats.
✓ Know Before You Go: WinterFest is one of the pricier Christmas experiences in Toronto. While general admission includes most attractions, extras like ice skating, igloo rentals, and food & drinks come at an additional cost—so plan your budget accordingly!
3. Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Cost: Free (Skate rentals available)
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Dates: 2024 dates TBD
Best For: Families, tourists, and anyone seeking a festive downtown activity
Nothing says winter in Toronto quite like gliding across the ice at Nathan Phillips Square!
Located in the heart of downtown, this iconic outdoor rink offers a magical skating experience beneath twinkling holiday lights, with the famous Toronto sign glowing in the background. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a must-do Christmas activity that captures the festive spirit of the city.
✨ Best Time to Go: While skating under the evening lights is undeniably magical, the rink can get very crowded during the holidays, especially at night. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the day when the crowds are lighter.
Looking for a quieter rink? If Nathan Phillips Square is too busy, Toronto has plenty of other incredible outdoor skating spots to explore—so don’t hang up your skates just yet!
4. Visit the Royal York Hotel Lobby
Cost: Free to visit (Meals and drinks at restaurants vary)
Address: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON
Dates: November 20
Best For: Couples, tourists, and photo opportunities
I absolutely love visiting the Royal York Hotel during Christmas—it’s one of the most beautifully decorated places in Toronto and one of the best Fairmont hotels in Canada. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, visitors are welcome to wander through the lobby of the hotel.
When you enter, you will see stunning Christmas trees and holiday lights. Gingerbread Way a laneway lined with read gingerbread, icing and candy! It’s a perfect spot to take some holiday photos with the whole family.
If you’re staying in Toronto in December, I’d definitely splurge on a stay at the Royal York.
But even if you don’t stay overnight at the hotel, I highly recommend visiting for a drink at the Library Bar or make a reservation for their incredible holiday brunch or afternoon tea!
A visit to the Fairmont Royal York Hotel at Christmas is definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Toronto for Christmas!
5. Holiday Fair in the Square
Cost: Free
Address: Mel Lastman Square, North York
Dates: December 13-15, & 19-23 2024
Looking for a festive holiday market outside of downtown? Holiday Fair in the Square is a free, family-friendly Christmas event in Mel Lastman Square, North York. The fair has everything from artisan shopping and festive food trucks to live entertainment and twinkling holiday lights.
One of my favourite things to do here? Browsing the artisan stalls for unique, last-minute gifts, then warming up with a cup of rich hot chocolate in the cozy Fireside Lounge. If you’re feeling extra festive, you can even toast marshmallows for s’mores over the open fire!
Bringing the whole family? Kids will love Santa’s Village, and since the event is dog-friendly, even your pup can get in on the holiday fun. Plus, with a beautiful outdoor skating rink, it’s one of the most magical ways to celebrate Christmas in Toronto this December!
6. The Well Holiday Experience
Cost: Free
Address: 486 Front St W, Toronto, ON
Dates: November 13 – December 31, 2024 Wednesday to Sunday
Best For: Date nights, friends, and photographers
The Well, a newly opened destination in 2023, is a mix of shopping, dining, and events wrapped in innovative open-air architecture. The space is stunning and Instagram-worthy, with festive cocktails, live entertainment, ice skating, and holiday light displays.
The outdoor fire pits create a cozy setting for enjoying a cocktail with friends or on a date. Pet-friendly and full of excellent dining options, it’s an ideal spot for a night out. Personally, Indigo Books is my favourite book store in Toronto and perfect for some last-minute shopping!
The Wellington Market, a food hall with over 30 vendors, offers something unique for food lovers. If you are looking for a stylish holiday experience in Toronto, The Well is a great place to add to your winter itinerary.
7. Toronto Santa Claus Parade
Cost: Free
Address: Starts at Bloor St W and Christie St, ending near St. Lawrence Market
Dates: November 24, 2024
Best For: Families, tourists, and anyone who loves holiday traditions.
The Santa Claus Parade, a Toronto tradition since 1905, is one of the city’s most popular Christmas events. The parade marks the unofficial launch of Christmas in Toronto. Every November, festive floats, marching bands, and Santa himself make their way through downtown Toronto.
It’s a free Christmas event that’s perfect for families, though it can get crowded in some places along the parade route. The parade is 6.5 kilometres long, and there are lots of places to get a good seat if you arrive early.
I have been attending the Santa Claus Parade for years, and it continues to be one of my favourite things to do in Toronto with kids at Christmas.
8. Shopping at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre Mall
Cost: Free
Address: 220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
Dates: Tree Lighting – November 13, 2024
Best For: Shoppers, tourists, and families
Are you a shopping fan? If so then you will want to include a visit to the popular Eaton Centre in downtown Toronto. This large mall is decorated with festive lights and has one of the biggest Christmas trees in North America on display.
During the holidays, you can watch “Snowshow,” an entertaining display with holiday music, changing images, and an indoor snowfall—perfect for getting into the holiday mood. The show only runs at certain times, but it’s worth checking out the schedule so you can see this fun 3.5 minute show!
If you’re looking for things to do in Toronto during Christmas, shopping at this large indoor shopping mall fully decorated for Christmas is a great option.
9. Financial District Holiday Lights
Cost: Free
Address: Various locations in the Financial District, including Brookfield Place, Commerce Court, and TD Centre Courtyard
Dates: 2024 dates TBD
Best For: City explorers, photographers, and holiday light lovers
✨ Downtown Toronto’s Financial District might not be the first place you think of for holiday magic, but during Christmas, it comes alive with some of the city’s most dazzling light displays.
If you’re looking for festive photo spots or just want to soak in the holiday atmosphere, this is a must-visit area. Plus, it’s all connected through Toronto’s PATH system, so you can explore without braving the cold for too long!
One of my favourite spots? The Brookfield Place Atrium, where the twinkling lights beautifully complement the stunning glass-and-steel architecture. It’s a dream for photographers and the perfect backdrop for holiday photos. While you’re there, it’s worth stopping by the Hockey Hall of Fame, which is located in the same building.
More festive sights: Commerce Court and TD Centre Courtyard also shine with beautiful holiday displays. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the holiday spirit, this is one of Toronto’s best free Christmas activities!
10. Winter Market at Evergreen Brick Works
Cost: $5.00 suggested donation
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
Dates: December 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2024
Best For: Shoppers, food lovers, and families
The Winter Market at Evergreen Brick Works is a holiday gem in Toronto. Held Sundays in December, it’s the perfect spot to shop for handmade gifts, unique art, and vintage treasures from over 60 local vendors.
After shopping, head to the Winter Garden, where cozy fire pits invite you to toast s’mores with family and friends. With a variety of food vendors serving seasonal treats, there’s plenty to satisfy your holiday cravings.
Parking is limited at the Brickworks, but the free shuttle from Broadview Station makes it easy. Whether you’re hunting for gifts or just soaking in the festive vibe, this market is a must-visit holiday tradition!
11. Holiday Hills at Stackt Market
Cost: Free (Activities and food vary)
Address: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON
Dates: November 15 – December 29, 2024
Best For: Friends, couples, and those seeking a fun, trendy holiday vibe
Holiday Hills at Stackt Market offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience in Toronto. As North America’s largest shipping container market, it blends festive shopping, great food, and craft drinks with an urban, industrial-chic vibe.
Want some winter fun? Rent a curling lane or cozy up in a warming hut. The Tunnel of Lights is perfect for Instagram-worthy photos, while the outdoor fire pits add to the festive atmosphere.
For drinks, don’t miss the Speakeasy Whisky Bar or the on-site brewery for locally crafted brews. And since Stackt Market is dog-friendly, your pup can join the holiday fun too!
Perfect for a festive date night, a fun evening with friends, or a unique holiday outing right in the downtown core, just steps from The Well.
12. Casa Loma Christmas at the Castle
Cost: $45 (subject to change)
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
Dates: December 5 – January 4, 2025
Best For: History lovers, families, and tourists
Casa Loma transforms into a magical holiday destination at Christmas. The historic castle is adorned with twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive displays, making it one of Toronto’s most enchanting winter attractions.
By day, visitors can explore the castle, enjoy holiday performances, and snap a photo with Santa. It’s the perfect blend of history and holiday charm.
✨ At night, the castle grounds glow with a spectacular holiday light display. However, admission to the evening event is separate, making this one of the pricier Christmas experiences in Toronto.
13. Casa Loma Holiday Lights
Cost: Ranges from $45 – $55 (discount available if purchased with daytime tour)
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
Dates: December 5 – January 4, 2025
Best For: Families, couples, and holiday light lovers
At night, Casa Loma hosts a breathtaking self-guided walk of its grounds, featuring themed rooms, light tunnels, Christmas music, and live performances.
The outdoor light displays are perfect for those who are looking for places to visit in Toronto for Christmas with dazzling holiday lights.
While admission doesn’t include a tour of the castle, kids can still visit Santa in his workshop.
14. Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square
Cost: Free
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Dates: November 30, 2024
Best For: Those seeking a traditional holiday event
A Toronto holiday tradition since 1967, the Cavalcade of Lights kicks off the season with the lighting of the city’s official Christmas tree, live performances, and festive skating presentations. While it’s a free, city-run event, I’ll be honest—it’s not one of my personal favorites.
✨ Compared to other light displays in Toronto, this one isn’t the most impressive. The event can get extremely crowded, and aside from skating, there isn’t much else to do.
That said, opening night is a lively celebration, with performances and the tree lighting drawing visitors from all over the city. If you love big crowds and holiday energy, it might be worth checking out—but if you’re looking for a more immersive light display, you’ll find better options elsewhere on this list.
15. Holiday Lights in Yorkville
Cost: Free
Address: Yorkville, Toronto
Dates: November 25 – December 31, 2024
Best For: Couples, photographers, luxury shoppers
Yorkville transforms into a sparkling holiday destination with a small but beautiful series of light displays during the Christmas season.
The lights create a cozy, festive vibe, and Yorkville’s stylish shops and restaurants make it a lovely place to grab dinner or a drink after admiring the displays. If you are visiting with children, I recommend looking for the walkway with Santa flying overhead.
I recommend visiting in the evening to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s a great spot to walk after visiting the Royal Ontario Museum nearby.
For those interested in some free things to do in Toronto at Christmas a visit to see the Yorkville holiday lights is a lovely option.
16. National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker
Cost: Varies; check online for ticket prices
Address: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St W, Toronto
Dates: December 6 – 31, 2024
Best For: Families, ballet lovers, and holiday tradition seekers
The National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker is one of Toronto’s most cherished holiday traditions. This breathtaking production brings the classic ballet to life with dazzling costumes, grand sets, and a mesmerizing performance that captivates audiences of all ages.
Planning to go? Tickets sell out fast, so it’s best to book early when they go on sale in the fall.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Toronto in December, watching The Nutcracker is a magical way to celebrate the holiday season and experience one of the city’s most iconic festive events.
Winter Day Trips from Toronto
If you’re looking to explore Christmas activities beyond the city, there are also some fantastic options just a short drive away.
Here are a few festive day trips from Toronto worth considering:
17. Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Dates: November 16, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Are you considering visiting Niagara Falls in winter? Don’t miss the Winter Festival of Lights, Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival and one of the best winter day trips from Toronto.
✨ From the Falls to the Dufferin Islands, millions of twinkling lights and dazzling holiday displays transform the city into a winter wonderland. Stroll along illuminated pathways, take in breathtaking views, and end the night with the festival’s spectacular fireworks show.
Perfect for all ages, this festive event makes for an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family outing, a winter visit to Niagara Falls is always magical.
18. Christmas at Blue Mountain Village
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd, The Blue Mountains, ON
Blue Mountain Village is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with twinkling lights and festive displays. You can enjoy activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, skating, and visiting the shops and cafes.
The village has a magical feel, especially in the evening when the lights come alive. It’s a great spot for families and couples looking for a winter getaway close to the city.
19. Christmas in St. Jacobs
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
St. Jacobs is a charming village known for its traditional markets and quaint shops. During the holidays, the town lights up with festive displays, and you can visit the famous St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market for unique, handcrafted holiday gifts. It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot, ideal for a relaxing day trip.
20. Winter Wonders at Royal Botanical Gardens
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Address: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON
Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington hosts the Winter Wonders experience, where you can stroll through Hendrie Park’s picturesque, illuminated pathways.
The evening is filled with interactive light installations, festive music, and a magical winter atmosphere. It’s perfect for families or anyone who enjoys nature mixed with holiday spirit. There is an admission fee to see the lights, but this event is worth the cost.
Places to Stay in Toronto in December
There are many excellent places to stay in Toronto in December, particularly in the downtown Toronto area. Two of my favourite hotels include the Royal York Hotel and the Sheraton Centre Downtown Toronto Hotel.
Fairmont Royal York Hotel at Christmas
⭐️ RATING: 8.3 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON
The Royal York Hotel is one of the most beautifully decorated places in Toronto during the holiday season. Its central downtown location, right across from Union Station, makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s top Christmas activities in Toronto.
You’ll be just steps away from major attractions like the CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, the Financial District, and the Hockey Hall of Fame.
With a family-friendly indoor pool and holiday-themed restaurants and bars, like the festive Library Bar and Thirsty Elf pop-up, this hotel captures the holiday spirit perfectly. The holiday brunch and holiday tea are also a great way to celebrate Christmas in Toronto.
Sheraton Centre Downtown Toronto
⭐️ RATING: 8.1 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 123 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
The Sheraton Centre is one of the best value hotels in Toronto, especially during the festive season. With a year-round indoor-outdoor rooftop pool, it’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring Toronto.
Located right across from Nathan Phillips Square, you’re just steps away from the city’s best outdoor ice skating rink and the Eaton Centre for holiday shopping.
Plus, it’s connected to Toronto’s PATH system, making it easy to navigate downtown without stepping outside into the cold. I find this to be one of the better value hotels in Toronto. Read my complete Sheraton Hotel review for additional details.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do at Christmas in Toronto
Planning more winter adventures? ❄️ Check out my guide to Winter in Toronto: Best Seasonal Activities & Hidden Gems to make the most of the chilly season!
Some additional articles of interest may include:
✓ Things to do in Toronto with Kids
✓ Things to do in Toronto for First Time Visitors
✓ 3 Days in Toronto: The Perfect Toronto Itinerary
✓ Visiting Niagara Falls Canada in Winter
Now that you have learned about so many of my favourite holiday events in the city, I hope you enjoy your visit to Toronto this December!
Pin for Later
