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 16, 2023, until the New Year, 2024.
Bloor-Yorkville
The neighbourhood of Bloor-Yorkville is usually glitzy in its own right year-round but gets 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. Indoor shoppers are delighted with the whimsical displays inside Yorkville Village as well. Be sure to check out festive events like Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic (November 25 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.) and Fleurs de Villes NOËL Bloor-Yorkville (December 6 -10).
Casa Loma
This year, head to Christmas at the Castle. Casa Loma will host festive activities and performances that are sure to be fun for the whole family. Don't miss the 40ft 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 the year and the added magic of the stunning light displays will surely get 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. You’ll find majestic trees both indoors and outside. Be sure to take a gander to see the string of twinkling lights in Brookfield Place, First Canadian Place and the TD Centre.
Glow Christmas
This indoor Christmas festival runs during December and is the perfect spot to be immersed in holiday magic. With festive food and drinks, live entertainment, a holiday market and the lights garden, Glow Christmas is an experience the whole family will enjoy.
Cavalcade of Lights
It’s “bright lights, big city” at this annual event that marks the official start to Toronto’s holiday season. The family-friendly Cavalcade of Lights celebration at Nathan Phillips Square features the lighting of Toronto’s 15 m (50 ft) Christmas tree, live musical performances, ice skating and more.
