There’s no better way to experience the holiday magic of Toronto than by exploring all the twinkly Christmas lights around the city.
Distillery Winter Village
You can’t find a more quintessential holiday setup than the Distillery District during the holidays. The cobblestone pathways lined with independent shops, excellent restaurants, beautifully decorated Christmas trees and pearly string lights all create the perfect festive atmosphere.
This year’s 56-foot tall Silver Fir Christmas tree is the tallest tree the event has ever had. The tree is sponsored by Parfums Christian Dior. You can experience the Distillery Winter Village (formerly known as Toronto Christmas Market) from November 13 through December 31, 2024.
Bloor-Yorkville
The neighbourhood of Bloor-Yorkville is usually glitzy year-round but is transformed into a scene from every Christmas movie ever made.
The streets are lit up with twinkling string lights, high-end stores go all out with their window displays, and the striking Christmas tree shines like the crown jewel.
This year, head to Christmas at the Castle. Casa Loma will host festive activities and performances that will be fun for the whole family.
Don’t miss the 40 ft tall tree in the Great Hall and eight other signature trees by talented Canadian designers. Find more information about dates and ticket prices by checking Casa Loma’s website.
Yonge-Dundas Square
There’s a reason why Yonge-Dundas Square should be on your list of best holiday lights in Toronto.
The area is buzzing with festive excitement this time of year, and the added magic of the stunning light displays will surely put you in a festive mood.
Financial District
One of Toronto’s best holiday lights transformation takes place in the Financial District.
The business area steps into the holiday spirit with gusto by embracing the season wrapped in a magical envelope of lights. Majestic trees are found both indoors and outdoors.
Be sure to take a gander at the string of twinkling lights in Brookfield Place, First Canadian Place and the TD Centre.
Cavalcade of Lights
At this annual event, which marks the official start to Toronto’s holiday season, it's “bright lights, big city.”
The family-friendly Cavalcade of Lights celebration at Nathan Phillips Square kicks off the evening of November 30, 2024, and features the lighting of Toronto’s 15 m (50 ft) Christmas tree, live musical performances, ice skating and more.
The festive lights continue shining through January 7, 2025.
Make your season bright by jingling all the way to these exciting holiday markets for unique gifts...
Author
Marissa Anwar
Marissa Anwar is a scientist, a travel and lifestyle content creator at Darling Escapes, and Destination Toronto’s arts and culture correspondent. You can also find her on @marissa.anwar where she shares her favourite finds and hidden gems from Canada and across the globe, as well as her love for cheesecake.
