Toronto comes alive during the winter holiday season, with festive lights, magical markets, and an array of events to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. From iconic parades to bustling holiday markets, there’s something for everyone. Below is a guide to some of the top events and activities happening in the City of Toronto this year.
Parades & Festivals
Cavalcade of Lights
Date: November 30–January 7
Nathan Phillips Square transforms with the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, live music, and ice skating. This is the perfect spot to feel the holiday spirit in the heart of the city.
Christmas at the Castle at Casa Loma
Date: December 5–January 4
Step into a winter wonderland at Casa Loma, complete with dazzling decorations and a 40-foot Christmas tree. Book a meal at Blueblood, the castle’s award-winning steakhouse, to make the visit extra special.
Kensington Market Winter Solstice Festival
Date: December 21, 6-9:30pm
This vibrant festival celebrates the winter solstice with a parade, handmade lanterns, stilt dancers, and a dramatic fire finale. Join thousands of decorated revelers as they welcome back the light on the longest night of the year.
Santa Claus Parade
Date: November 24, 12:30pm
Since 1905, Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade has marked the beginning of the holiday season, filling the city with festive cheer. This is a must-attend event for Toronto families with young children.
Holiday Markets
Distillery Winter Village
Date: November 13–January 5
The historic Distillery District becomes a cozy holiday village with twinkling lights, local crafts, and festive food and drink. The Christmas tree and charming cobblestone streets make this a magical experience for the whole family.
Holiday Fair in the Square
Date: December 6–23
The Holiday Fair in the Square combines a traditional artisan marketplace with a Fireside Lounge, mulled wine, and s’mores. Enjoy this seasonal favourite while browsing handmade gifts or taking photos with Santa.
stackt Holiday Market
Date: November 15–December 31
Dive into the unique holiday market at stackt, North America’s largest shipping container market. With local vendors, live music, and workshops, it’s an innovative way to enjoy the season while supporting small businesses.
Pop-Up Experiences
Miracle Toronto
Date: November 15–December 29
Miracle Toronto is a holiday-themed pop-up bar that brings a kitschy winter wonderland to life with festive decor, cocktails, drag shows, and themed events.
One of a Kind Show
Date: November 21–December 1
Discover Canadian artisans and unique handmade items at this renowned show. From art to fashion, it’s the perfect spot for one-of-a-kind holiday shopping. Enjoy creative workshops and daily fashion shows while you browse.
Image: Bloor-Yorkville BIA
Holiday Lights & Musical Events
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Date: November–December (Multiple dates)
Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a festive wonderland with Victorian carolers, enchanting lights, and unique “urban campfire” benches. Stroll through the neighbourhood to shop, dine, and enjoy live performances.
CF Music at the Eaton Centre
Date: Multiple Dates
Enjoy live music from local artists in the heart of downtown, making your holiday shopping experience even more festive.
Holidays with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra
Date: November 27–December 22
The TSO offers a range of holiday concerts, from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to Handel’s Messiah. Join them for classic Christmas movie screenings and jazzy holiday performances.
Image: National Ballet of Canada
Iconic Performances & Experiences
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
Date: November 21–24
A hilarious and whimsical show at the CAA Theatre, this comedy is perfect for fans of Monty Python-style humour. Join the antics as a Christmas tea party spirals into a whimsical adventure.
National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker
Date: December 6–31
This beloved production brings the enchanting world of The Nutcracker to life with a Canadian twist. It’s a must-see for ballet lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s The Lost Christmas Eve
Date: December 30, Scotiabank Arena
Experience a rock opera like no other as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings their electrifying performance of The Lost Christmas Eve to Toronto.
‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil
Dates: December 12–January 3, Meridian Hall
This heart-warming and fun-filled take on A Visit from Saint Nicholas by Cirque du Soleil combines holiday cheer with incredible acrobatics, promising joy for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Fun
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Date: November 16–January 4
Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a holiday haven with millions of lights, live entertainment, and ice skating. This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages, and it even features select rides.
Which holiday event are you most excited about? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, X, or Instagram) and let us know!