How to Have the Best Christmas in Toronto: A Detailed Guide

I absolutely love Christmas—it’s filled with so much joy, warmth, and festive cheer! As a Christmas baby (my birthday is just a few days before the big day), this season always makes me super excited. Toronto, during the holidays, is an absolute wonderland, and I can’t wait to share all the magical things you can do to make the most of this special time of year.

Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, Toronto has everything you need to feel that festive spirit—from twinkling light displays and charming Christmas markets to cozy cafes and holiday shows. So, come along with me as I guide you through the best ways to experience Christmas in Toronto, and let’s make this holiday season one to remember!

Table of Contents

1. Explore Toronto’s Christmas Markets

The Distillery Winter Village: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic Distillery District, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. This market offers unique artisan shops, holiday-themed foods, live entertainment, and a massive Christmas tree. Don’t miss the mulled wine, hot chocolate, and festive cocktails. Admission prices vary, with weekday entries around $11 and weekend entries around $16.

Holiday Fair in the Square: Located at Nathan Phillips Square, this market features a mix of local vendors, festive food and drinks, live performances, and a midway with rides and games. Enjoy a skate on Toronto’s famous ice rink with a stunning view of the city skyline. Entry is free, and skate rentals are available for a fee.
Evergreen Brick Works Winter Village: A more eco-conscious market, Evergreen Brick Works offers locally made, sustainable gifts, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Admission is free, but you’ll need to register for certain workshops and events.

2. Enjoy Seasonal Light Displays

Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights: Watch Nathan Phillips Square come alive with thousands of LED lights, a giant Christmas tree, and a magical fireworks display. Enjoy live performances, DJ music, and festive treats. This free event typically takes place in late November to kick off the holiday season.

Casa Loma Holiday Lights Tour: Wander through the beautifully decorated halls and gardens of Casa Loma, Toronto’s iconic castle, during their annual Holiday Lights event. The experience includes themed rooms, seasonal decorations, and a stunning light tunnel. Tickets range from $30 to $45, depending on the date and time.
Toronto Zoo’s Holiday Light Spectacle: Enjoy an enchanting experience at the Toronto Zoo, featuring over a million lights and a projection show. The zoo is also open during the day for animal encounters and holiday-themed activities. Tickets start at $20 for adults and $15 for children.

3. Visit the Christmas-Themed Attractions

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) Holiday Tours: The ROM offers special holiday tours and exhibits during the festive season. Enjoy learning about global holiday traditions and see beautiful seasonal decorations throughout the museum. Tickets range from $18 to $25.
Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village: Experience a traditional Victorian Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village, complete with horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, and historic decorations. The village also offers holiday-themed workshops and a Christmas marketplace. Tickets start at $15 for adults and $11 for children.

4. Catch a Festive Show or Concert

The National Ballet of Canada’s ‘The Nutcracker’: This timeless ballet performance at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts is a must-see during the Christmas season. Tickets range from $45 to $175.
Christmas Concerts at Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall: Enjoy holiday concerts by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, or catch a festive pop concert. Ticket prices vary depending on the event.
A Christmas Carol at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre: Watch a classic rendition of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” complete with stunning visuals and a talented cast. Tickets generally range from $30 to $100.

5. Skate on Iconic Outdoor Ice Rinks

Nathan Phillips Square Ice Rink: Skate under the iconic Toronto sign with a backdrop of the city’s skyline. Open daily, with skate rentals available for around $10.
Harbourfront Centre Natrel Rink: Skate by the lake at this picturesque rink, which also offers music, hot drinks, and stunning views. Entry is free; skate rentals cost around $8 to $10.
The Bentway Skate Trail: Glide along this 220-meter skate trail under the Gardiner Expressway. It offers skate rentals, hot chocolate, and themed skating nights. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.

6. Indulge in Seasonal Treats

Enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea: Many of Toronto’s luxury hotels, like the Fairmont Royal York and the Windsor Arms, offer a special Christmas-themed afternoon tea, featuring seasonal treats, holiday decor, and festive music.
Holiday-Themed Food Tours: Join a food tour in neighborhoods like Kensington Market or St. Lawrence Market, where you can sample Christmas goodies like gingerbread cookies, hot apple cider, and holiday pastries. Prices for guided tours range from $50 to $100 per person.
Christmas Dining: Reserve a table at one of Toronto’s renowned restaurants for a special Christmas dinner. Many offer prix fixe holiday menus featuring seasonal dishes and desserts.

7. Participate in Fun Family Activities

Santa Claus Parade: Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade is one of the largest in North America, featuring festive floats, music, and, of course, Santa himself. This free event usually takes place in late November.
Christmas Pet Photoshoots: Take your furry friends for a holiday-themed photoshoot at one of the many pet-friendly cafes or events in Toronto, such as Paws in the Park’s holiday market.
Christmas Craft Workshops: Join in on holiday craft workshops at local community centers, where you can create personalized ornaments, wreaths, or holiday cards. Fees vary, but many are free or have a small donation request.

8. Stay in a Festive Hotel

Fairmont Royal York: This historic hotel is known for its stunning holiday decorations and festive atmosphere. Enjoy special holiday packages that include afternoon tea, access to Christmas markets, or festive brunches.
The St. Regis Toronto: The hotel offers luxurious Christmas packages, including in-room decorations, festive dining options, and complimentary tickets to nearby holiday attractions.
Shangri-La Hotel Toronto: This hotel offers special Christmas amenities, such as in-room holiday treats, festive afternoon tea, and holiday entertainment in their lobby lounge.

9. Go Christmas Shopping

Yorkville Village and Bloor-Yorkville: Shop for luxury gifts in this upscale shopping district, beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Eaton Centre: Experience one of Canada’s largest malls, featuring a giant Christmas tree, festive displays, and a wide range of shops for all budgets.
Queen Street West: Find unique gifts from local artisans, boutique stores, and vintage shops in Toronto’s trendiest shopping district.

10. Experience Winter Festivals and Events

Winterfest at Canada’s Wonderland: Visit Canada’s Wonderland for Winterfest, a magical festival featuring live shows, holiday-themed attractions, and delicious treats. Tickets start at $29.99 for admission.
Toronto Christmas Market Events: Attend special events at the Distillery Winter Village, like tree lighting ceremonies, live music, and festive workshops.

Tips for Having the Best Christmas in Toronto

Dress Warmly: Toronto can get quite cold in December. Layer up with warm clothes, hats, gloves, and scarves, especially if you plan on enjoying outdoor activities.
Plan Ahead: Popular attractions and events can get crowded, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance and make reservations where possible.
Use Public Transit: Avoid the hassle of finding parking by using Toronto’s extensive public transit system. The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) is an easy and affordable way to get around.

With this guide, you’ll be able to create unforgettable memories and experience the magic of Christmas in Toronto to its fullest!