In Canada, Boxing Day holds a special place as a cherished holiday tradition on December 26. It’s the time of year when everyone floods into shopping centres to score fantastic deals on clothing, technology, and more.
For those in Toronto, Boxing Day is an ideal day to be out and about. You’ll discover numerous shopping opportunities to satisfy your retail cravings. Plus, if you’re still in the holiday spirit and want to explore more than just the stores, some popular attractions remain open for you to enjoy.
Where to shop for deals on Boxing Day
Neighbourhood Shopping Districts
Explore Toronto’s vibrant shopping districts to discover a treasure trove of local goods, high-end fashion and art. Popular shopping areas include King West, Queen West, King Street East, the Distillery District and Bloor-Yorkville.
Each neighbourhood boasts a distinctive character, with a diverse range of upscale boutiques, art galleries and specialty shops offering everything from designer fashion to unique paintings and home decor.
Yorkdale Shopping Centre
Yorkdale Shopping Centre is a blend of sophistication and variety. Boasting over 250 stores, from high-end designer boutiques to popular retailers, you’ll find it a diverse shopping experience and a perfect option for a lavish shopping spree. Beyond the chic storefronts, it’s a multifaceted entertainment hub with restaurants, art installations, interactive exhibits and a movie theatre.
Toronto Eaton Centre
Situated along the pedestrian-friendly PATH, the Eaton Centre draws in locals and tourists with over 250 stores spanning three floors. Plus, fast-casual and sit-down restaurants when you need to refuel. The mall’s iconic glass atrium bathes the interior in natural light, while the bustling ambiance creates an unforgettable Boxing Day shopping experience.
Fairview Mall
Even on the busiest shopping day, you’ll navigate Fairview’s spacious layout with ease. Beyond hunting for the latest trends, Fairview is a favourite mall for its selection of restaurants. Come for the shopping, but stay for the meal out.
Scarborough Town Centre
This mall is a testament to the vibrant energy of Scarborough. Its recent enhancements have revitalized the centre, beckoning avid shoppers to explore its trendy fashion outlets and popular brand retailers. Families love the children’s play area, movie theatre and restaurants.
Sherway Gardens
Sherway Gardens exudes a classy and aesthetic charm, making it a paradise for shoppers seeking high-end luxury items. You’ll find abundant seating areas, each adorned with diverse decorations adding to the mall’s radiant ambiance. A haven for shoppers, this mall also boasts an impressive variety of restaurants for a fancy meal out.
Toronto’s Boxing Day attractions
Enjoy WinterFest at Canada's Wonderland
This popular theme park keeps the holiday magic alive with its WinterFest celebration, which runs all season long, even on Boxing Day. Stroll through the park, taking in the mesmerizing holiday lights, indulge in festive treats at their Christmas Market and glide gracefully on SnowFlake Lake. It’s a wonderful way to extend the holiday celebrations.
Marvel at sweeping city views from CN Tower
Over the holidays, the CN Tower gets all gussied up with its lights display, and Boxing Day is no different. Bordered by reflective skyscrapers, you’ll love how the lights spread a warm glow of joy across the city. Take advantage of the illuminating lights from street level or high above in the tower itself.
Get wild at the Toronto Zoo
After you’ve unwrapped your presents, make the most of your day off on Boxing Day to visit the Toronto Zoo. The zoo provides a diverse array of attractions, from special events and educational programs to thrilling rides and animal encounters. These experiences together create a splendid day out with your loved ones.
Tour the historic Casa Loma
After your shopping adventure, trade out the hustle and bustle for a slower-paced excursion to the historic Casa Loma. There, you can take part in the Holiday Lights Tour, a self-guided journey through the property’s beautiful gardens, which includes the castle’s numerous tunnels adorned with shimmering lights and stunning holiday decorations.
Dive into fun at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Why not add visiting your favourite fishy friends to your Boxing Day excursions? With extended hours, choose to go shopping and visit the Ripley’s Aquarium’s exotic creatures and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Boxing Day is a day of endless possibilities, where you can indulge in retail therapy, explore exciting destinations and continue to bask in the holiday spirit with your loved ones.
