Christmas markets have been going on for over 600 years. Their roots began in Germany, but are now found across the globe. And the official Toronto Christmas Market is one of the best! December is one of my favourite times of year to visit the city. There are a ton of things to do for Christmas in Toronto including festive light displays, events, and holiday markets, and a host of other fun ways to get in the holiday spirit. A Toronto Christmas winter wonderland is yours to discover!
In this travel guide to Christmas in Toronto you’ll find all the top Toronto Christmas events to go to, where to find light displays, and other great places to get in the festive spirit! Start planning one of the best Ontario winter getaways today!
Best Places to Experience the Christmas in Toronto
In this travel guide to Christmas in Toronto you’ll find all the top Toronto Christmas markets to go to, where to find Christmas light displays in Toronto, and other great places to get in the festive spirit! Start planning one of the best Ontario winter getaways in Toronto today!
Toronto Christmas Market – NOW The Distillery Winter Village
The official Toronto Christmas Market, which changed its name in 2020 to The Distillery Winter Village, is located in the historic Distillery District. Running for close to ten years, it’s the best Christmas market in Toronto. The Distillery Winter Village has everything that the European Christmas markets have.
You’ll find everything from fabulous food stalls to local goods, a beer hall, and festive light displays throughout! One of the best things is that old classic feeling, with its cobblestone pathways and red-bricked buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve found Europe in Ontario.
The Toronto Christmas Market – now Distillery Winter Village kicks off at the end of November with the tree lighting. With a giant Christmas tree, a countdown to Christmas day, carolers, elves and Santa, this is one of the top things to do in Toronto during the holiday season! The atmosphere really amps up when the daylight fades and all the lights strung overhead turn on, highlighting the garland and helping to solidify that Toronto Christmas spirit.
There is even a ferris wheel and merry-go-round for children and the young at heart. Plus there’s always great photo-ops, like a pink tree mini maze, Glade’s Joy sign, snowmen and the Distillery’s classic big heart.
Insider Tip: Weekends are extremely busy, so if you can try and visit during the week. There is a cover charge Wednesday to Sunday after 4pm. But it’s free and much less busy during the week before 4pm.
Date: November 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Looking for more amazing holiday markets? Check out this ultimate list of Christmas markets in Ontario
Holiday Fair in the Square
New in 2016, Holiday Fair in the Square, is one of the best Christmas markets in Toronto and it’s always free! Holiday Fair in the Square is located in Nathan Phillips Square and was created in partnership with Epilepsy Toronto with a portion of the proceeds of the fair going towards supporting Epilepsy Toronto services. The square transforms into a winter wonderland of fun in the heart of Toronto. The Holiday Fair is home to carnival rides and games, along with numerous market stalls selling everything from fabulous local art to cool clothing.
One of the biggest hits are the wealth of food trucks that surround the Nathan Phillips Square. You’ll find everything from Tim Hortons to poutine, and so much more. There’s also Polar Point Bar where you can cozy up in their warming tent with a tasty drink from their Ice Bar. You can enjoy all the best holiday favourites like hot apple cider, mulled wine, and more.
On top of the fair and market, Nathan Phillips Square is a must visit in Toronto, during summer or winter. It’s home to the city’s iconic Toronto sign. And in the December it’s also home to Toronto’s official Christmas tree! Also during the winter you can strap on a pair of skates and have a merry skate around the outdoor rink.
Date: December 6 – 23, 2024
Need somewhere to warm up when you’re exploring the city this winter? Pop into one of the top Toronto coffee shops to defrost and enjoy a festive latte!
Fairmont Royal York
If you’re looking for festive hotels in Toronto to stay at during the holidays, the Fairmont Royal York ticks all the gift boxes! This grand historic downtown hotel makes for the perfect holiday escape in the city as it’s close to many attractions.
But most importantly, there are plenty of festive things to do at the Fairmont Royal York! I always make a stop every year to check out their stunning window displays along Front Street. Plus, wander in and you’ll spot the grand Christmas tree.
They host an annual tree lighting ceremony, that’s been going strong for over 90 years! During the event, Santa is visiting as are carolers.
When it comes to the best places to eat during the holidays in Toronto, the Royal York restaurants serve up a festive feast! Along with the holiday brunch at REIGN, they have an annual pop up that’s always an Instagrammer’s dream! This year, you can enjoy festive cocktails in House of York. The space expertly blends cozy cabin with holiday vibes.
The Fairmont has one of the best afternoon teas in Toronto! And during the festive season they offer a holiday afternoon tea. Running from mid-November through December, you’ll enjoy teas like Holiday Winter Spice and sweets like gingerbread cupcakes.
Stackt Holiday Market
One of most unique markets in the city can be found at Stackt Market! Best known as the largest shipping container market in North America, it hosts a fun market called Holiday Hills.
Starting halfway through November and running through December, you’ll find over 100 local vendors selling a variety of goods. Many of which make for fun and unique gifts! The market also hosts a number of events throughout the season that include everything from festive eats to live music.
Enjoy sipping on holiday drinks in their yurt or take on a fun winter game, and post for some festive photo-ops!
See the Nutcracker
One of the best things to do in December in Toronto is take in a performance of the Nutcracker! The Globe and Mail calls it “the best Nutcracker on the planet” and it runs through December at the National Ballet of Canada.
This classic gets a fun adaptation that brings more of Canada to the stage that includes everything from snowballs to dancing bears.
Toronto Santa Claus Parade
For family fun things to do be sure to attend the Toronto Santa Claus Parade. The Original Santa Claus Parade takes place annually and has for 120 years! It’s said to be one of the oldest!
The parade is filled with a variety of fun and massive floats. You’ll see everything from iconic businesses like a Canadian Tire float to a Tim Bit one. There are new ones every year too, like Willy Wonka and a Lego one.
I was invited behind the scenes of their workshop to see the magic in the making! I was blown away by the artistry and dedication that is put into each and every float.
Insider Tip: This year you can watch it on YouTube if standing out in the cold is not your thing.
One of a Kind Christmas Show
Whether you’re looking for an incredible and unique gift for that special person in your life or to do some holiday shopping for yourself, Toronto’s One of a Kind Show is for you. Located in the Exhibition Centre’s Enercare Centre, the One of a Kind Christmas Show has been running for over 40 years and is one of the top Christmas markets in Toronto.
Be sure to grab a show guide when you arrive to help you plan your day. This awesome holiday market is home to over 400 artisans from across Canada and the United States. And is one of North America’s largest craft shows.
You’ll enjoy everything from shopping to tasty treats, and even cool workshops. The price of tickets is $15 but there are varying options to add for a great deal. If you grab your ticket online you can add one or all of their options. Like transportation, a donation, and more.
Date: November 21 – December 1, 2024
Eaton Centre
Toronto’s Eaton Centre is a massive shopping mall in the heart of the city. Home to over 200 stores and restaurants it’s a bit of a tourist attraction in itself. And every December it’s decked out for the holiday season.
Every year its home to one of the tallest Christmas trees in Canada, as well as a gang of enormous reindeer decorations that are lit with LED lights. They even have a few spots marked for you to help you take optimal photos of you and the decorations!
Hudson’s Bay Window Displays
Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay is a Canadian staple. And every year when they unveil their holiday window displays people always flock to see them.
It’s a tradition for many to bundle up and head over to Yonge & Queen, to walk around the Bay to see what they’ve come up with. Last year it was mannequins in Christmas candy dresses along Yonge and LED and animatronic animals in the winter, putting on a festive showdown Queen Street. And as you walk around Christmas music pours from the speakers.
Cavalcade of Lights
For many the top Toronto Christmas event in the city is the Cavalcade of Lights. Since 1967, this event rings in the holiday season in Toronto. Taking place annually in Nathan Philips Square, it starts in November with the opening ceremonies.
The opening ceremonies include lighting the towering Christmas tree and live music. My favourite part is the extensive light displays that are a must see! Plus, you can rent skates, or bring your own, and skate in the square.
Check Out Holiday Lights
For those looking for free things to do in Toronto for Christmas, there are plenty of places to take in the holiday lights for free! Take a wander through Brookfield Place for festive lights and holiday displays. Plus, it’s a great place to get out from the cold.
Other festive displays can be found at First Canadian Place and the TD Centre. Beyond the buildings, many homes go full Griswold for the holidays in Toronto. A famous one is the De Sario Family Festival of Lights in North York and Decorate Brenyon Way in Scarborough. Both are on Goggle maps!
Christmas at Casa Loma
One of the best attractions in Toronto is Casa Loma! This enchanted castle in the middle of the city is filled with history, stories, and at Christmas time wonder! While visiting Casa Loma at any time of year is a good idea I highly recommend visiting during the holidays in Toronto! There are two main events going on at Casa Loma during the holiday season, Christmas at the Castle and the Holiday Light Tour. Both run from November 25th until December 30th.
Casa Loma Christmas at the Castle is exactly what it sounds like! Image being able to wander around an enchanted castle at Christmas time. Decked out for the holidays with beautiful and elegant holiday décor, lights, and a collection of trees, including the 40 foot tall Christmas tree in the Great Hall. The kids will love the opportunity to meet Santa in his workshop at the castle. And all in the good name of spreading holiday cheer, part of proceeds go towards the CP24 CHUM Christmas Wish and there’s a toy drop off for them too.
Holiday Lights Tour at Casa Loma is where the castle is decked in phenomenal light displays throughout the gardens and tunnels. You can enjoy a self-guided walking tour through the grounds of Casa Loma, the tunnels, and enjoy live performances too! For both events you can choose regular admission or opt for their VIP package that includes a line bypass as well as drinks and food. Be sure to add a visit to Casa Loma to your holiday list of things to do in Toronto winter 2024!
Looking for more incredible places to see light displays? Check out these Christmas Lights in Ontario!
More Things to do for Christmas in Toronto
If you’re looking for more festive things to do in December you’ll find a ton of Toronto Christmas events and cozy places to go. There is always something going on in the city for the holidays, from Christmas markets to light displays, and more!
- If you’re looking for great things to do indoors in Toronto in December check out the many museums in Toronto. Many of the museums offer festive events and exhibits plus they are a fabulous spot to just warm up from the cold.
- Are you on the hunt for more holiday markets? There’s one at the Toronto Zoo. Add the Toronto Zoo Holiday Market to your list. Running on weekend from the end of November through to Christmas, the Marketplace has a variety of vendors, festive food, photo-ops, and more!
- One of the most unique Toronto Christmas events is the Winter Solstice Festival. Taking place annually in Kensington Market on the winter solstice, this festival boasts plenty of things to do
- If you’re looking for romantic date ideas in Toronto for the holidays head to Yorkville. The Yorkville neighbourhood is home to some of the most festive light displays in Toronto, with nearly all of the trees decked in lights, holiday windows, and fun holiday features.
- Don’t forget to stop at Dundas Square at Christmas time for more fun and flashy holiday lights, a tree, and more!
Must-Visit Christmas Events near Toronto
Ilumii
My favourite place to visit during the holiday season in the GTA is Ilumii in Mississauga. Covering 600,000 square feet, it’s one of the largest light shows in the world. While there are over a dozen themed spaces to walk through, many offer dreamy Christmas vibes.
A top sight is the massive 47-metre Tree of Lights! But there’s plenty of festive lights for fun photo-ops that include everything from snowmen to polar creatures. It takes about an hour to walk through and is great if you’re looking for things to do with kids for the holiday season.
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
One of the most popular places to visit for Christmas in Ontario is Canada’s Wonderland for WinterFest. Located just north of the Toronto, the theme park transforms into a whimsical holiday experience.
WinterFest features a wealth of holiday lights, Christmas trees, and plenty of festive activities like cooking decorating. Running from mid-November through the beginning of January, it’s one of the top Christmas events in the Toronto area.
Along with fun things to do and see, they also boast a tasty treats and shopping. Plus, there’s a skating rink and so much more!
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