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Toronto knows how to do winter right! As the city lights up with twinkling displays, the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and festive tunes play in the background, you can’t help but feel the holiday magic. Whether you’re strolling through charming Christmas markets, skating under the stars, sipping hot chocolate by the fire, or admiring dazzling light shows, Toronto is the perfect place to embrace the holiday season.
Explore the variety of Christmas markets
Toronto turns into a festive shopping paradise, and the holiday markets are pure seasonal joy!
- Etsy Holiday Market – One-of-a-kind, handmade, and totally unique. If you love finding local treasures and creative gifts, this market is a must.
- Toronto Christmas Market (Distillery District) – The ultimate holiday wonderland! Picture cobblestone streets lined with twinkling lights, charming European-style cabins selling handmade gifts, steaming cups of mulled wine, and the scent of fresh gingerbread in the air. Take a ride on the vintage carousel, snap a photo in front of the giant Christmas tree, and don’t leave without trying Soma Chocolatemaker’s legendary hot chocolate.
- Holiday Fair in the Square (Nathan Phillips Square) – Shopping, skating, and Santa, all in one place! This market has everything from artisan gifts to delicious holiday treats, plus a fun-filled carousel for the kids.
- Veg Holiday Market – A dream come true for vegans, vegetarians, and the veg-curious! With over 40 plant-based vendors, you’ll find cruelty-free gifts and vegan holiday treats so good even meat-lovers will want a bite.
Winter festivities at Ontario Place
Ontario Place turns into a winter playground, packed with twinkling lights, music, and outdoor fun.
- The Winter Light Exhibition – A stunning outdoor display featuring illuminated art installations from talented Ontario artists.
- Skate by the lake – Glide along the waterfront while resident DJs spin festive beats.
- Warm up by the fire – Grab a hot chocolate, roast some marshmallows, and enjoy the cozy vibes.
- IMAX & Canadian treats – Catch a classic film at the world’s first permanent IMAX theatre, then indulge in a warm, sweet BeaverTail.
For even more festive fun, check out the Aurora Winter Festival on the East Island of Ontario Place. Expect whimsical light displays, amusement rides, a tubing park, and even a visit from Santa himself.
Holidays at Casa Loma
Casa Loma is Toronto’s very own castle, a stunning Edwardian-era mansion built in 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking city views, opulent rooms, secret passageways, and lush gardens. Now a museum, it hosts immersive exhibits, seasonal events, and even escape rooms. During the holidays, it transforms into a festive wonderland with dazzling lights and décor. A visit to Casa Loma feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale featuring:
- A Nutcracker Christmas at the Castle – Extravagantly decorated rooms, twinkling trees, and a holiday market fit for royalty.
- Outdoor light displays – Walk through the grounds and marvel at thousands of twinkling lights.
- Live performances & seasonal treats – Indulge in delicious holiday food and drinks while enjoying live festive entertainment.
Travel back in time at Black Creek Pioneer Village
Experience a Victorian Christmas like never before at Black Creek Pioneer Village, an authentic 1860s Ontario village. With over 40 restored buildings, period-costumed interpreters, and timeless holiday traditions, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the past.
- Sing along to traditional carols
- Watch artisans at work in historic trade shops
- Taste the season with mincemeat tarts, warm apple cider, and roasted chestnuts
Open weekends only from mid-November to December 23, so plan your visit early!
Marvel at stunning holiday lights
Toronto’s winter nights shine bright with spectacular light displays all over the city!
- Cavalcade of Lights (Nathan Phillips Square) – This iconic holiday event kicks off the season with the official lighting of Toronto’s Christmas tree, a breathtaking fireworks show, and live musical performances. Take a spin on the outdoor skating rink, surrounded by twinkling lights and the glow of the Freedom Arches.
- Eaton Centre – Home to Canada’s tallest Christmas tree, towering over 100 feet tall! While you’re there, check out the giant illuminated reindeer and festive holiday displays.
- Hudson’s Bay holiday windows – A Toronto tradition! Each year, the department store unveils beautiful, whimsical holiday window displays, perfect for a festive photo-op.
- Brookfield Place & Queen-Richmond Centre West – Stunning holiday lights inside two of Toronto’s most beautiful architectural spaces—the perfect way to admire festive decor while staying warm indoors.
Take a winter trip to Niagara Falls & celebrate the new year
A visit to Niagara Falls in winter? Absolutely! The frozen mist creates a breathtaking icy landscape, and the Winter Festival of Lights turns the entire area into a dazzling winter dream.
- Drive along eight kilometers of illuminated displays, from twinkling trees to glowing Canadian wildlife like moose and polar bears.
- Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Victoria Park with live music, a giant outdoor concert, and two stunning fireworks displays.
- If you’re back in Toronto for New Year’s, Nathan Phillips Square is the place to be, with fireworks, skating, and a massive countdown party to welcome the new year.
Cover photo credit: © Destination Toronto
