Things to do in Toronto: Happy Holidays edition!

A Happy women celebrating the fervour of Holidays

The nights are longer, the temperatures are colder, and the city is filled to bursting with twinkling lights to brighten up the dark. As the year comes to its close, Toronto is alive with Holiday spirit and festive cheer everywhere you look. If you’re hoping for dazzling light displays and ice skating to enjoy outdoors, delicious eats to add to your feasts, or the perfect place to find gifts for loved ones, we’ve got you covered to make the most of your holiday season.

Check out our list of things to do in Toronto – Happy Holidays Edition!

Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square

The Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square marks the official start of the Christmas season in Toronto. Running from November 30 to January 7, the event features stunning light displays, live performances, and Toronto’s official Christmas tree—a nearly 60-foot white spruce adorned with glittering ornaments. Perfect for fun with friends, or even a romantic evening, the event also features free ice skating beneath twinkling lights at the square’s iconic outdoor rink.

No skates? No problem! Visitors can rent skates for a small fee. Don’t forget to stop by the seasonal vendors for hot chocolate and other treats to warm you up!

 

Distillery Winter Village

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the holidays at the Distillery Winter Village in Toronto’s historic Distillery District. A bustling outdoor market, the historic Distillery District is transformed from December 12 to 31 into a romantic outdoor market of over 60 vendors offering seasonal items, unique gifts and incredible food. Students can stroll the historic cobblestone streets under a canopy of lights and enjoy the sounds of carolers or take selfies beneath glittering ice arches. Embrace the festive nostalgia of this unique outdoor market that only comes to Toronto once a year! Open seven days a week.

 

Casa Loma Holiday Lights Tour

Escape to an enchanted fairy tale castle at Casa Loma’s Holiday Lights Tour. Open December 5 to January 4, explore the halls, tunnels and gardens of this Gothic-revival mansion as it’s lit up and decorated with the magic of the season. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the sprawling grounds and hidden castle spaces while enjoying the holiday cheer and live performances. Have you been a good student all year? You can even stop in on Santa’s workshop and say hi to the big guy himself!

 

St Lawrence Winter Market

Holiday shopping is a breeze with the St Lawrence Winter Market! Over 200 years old, this outdoor market is a fixture of the city’s history and is embracing the holiday spirit. Find the perfect gifts and eats for your festive celebrations at this free Winter Market filled with unique vendors offering artisanal goods and delicious seasonal food and drinks. There’s also exciting live entertainment to be found! And it looks like Santa’s making his way through the city—shoppers can get their pictures taken with jolly old St. Nick! Running from December 5 to January 3.

 

Winter Market at Evergreen Brickworks

For a different kind of holiday experience, head to Evergreen Brickworks for a seasonal market that's perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a chance to step away from their screens. Set in a picturesque location near the Don Valley, this Christmas market features over 60 vendors offering vintage clothing, handmade art and more. Take a break in the cozy winter garden or enjoy a crafty workshop or get outside for some free skating. The market is open December 1, 8, 15 and 22.

 

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

For a true blast of holiday cheer, head to Canada’s Wonderland for WinterFest, a spectacular winter event that transforms the amusement park into a festive winter wonderland. Running from late November to early January, WinterFest features over three million twinkling lights, ice skating on a beautiful outdoor rink, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the holiday-themed rides, sip peanut buttery winter cocoa or hot cider, and who’s that we see? Here’s your chance to let the big man know what’s on your list because you can also find Santa Clause and his elves here at Wonderland! WinterFest is an explosion of holiday magic and festive cheer. An unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays in Toronto, running from November 16 to January 4.

Toronto offers endless opportunities to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season, with no shortage of opportunities to strap on some skates and hit the ice! NCT students will find something for everyone during the holidays in Toronto—whether you're embracing winter activities, indulging in festive foods, or enjoying the holiday lights, these activities are sure to make your holidays unforgettable.

 

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