Get ready to celebrate the season—Toronto-style. Here’s a roundup of exciting limited-time-only events to make your vacation merry and bright!
Magic is in the air, as the winter holidays are full steam ahead in 2023. Some of Toronto’s favourite landmarks and attractions are going all out this season: here are nine festivals, markets, exhibits and events to get you in the festive spirit.
Capture the magic at a holiday festival
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Whether you have kids or are a kid at heart, put WinterFest at the top of your list. An immersive holiday experience for the whole family, this event features live shows and holiday entertainment, ice skating on Snow Flake Lake and even a few rides.
Canada’s fave amusement park lives up to its name, with hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees and millions of spectacular lights throughout the park, including two 15 m (50 ft) Christmas trees. – Select dates, November 17, 2023– January 6, 2024
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. – November 25, 2023 to January 7, 2024
Shop local at a holiday market
Stackt Holiday Market
Dive into an innovative holiday experience at stackt, North America’s largest shipping container market. Created entirely from repurposed shipping containers, the downtown market is a local fave for its unique shops, dining and microbrewery.
During the festive season, check out Holiday Hills, with vendor markets, games, Instagram-friendly photo experiences and live music. It’s a great opportunity to support small businesses and participate in community-led workshops and family programming. – November 17 - December 31, 2023
Indulge in a holiday feast
Holiday dining atop the CN Tower
Is there anything more magical than delectable food, sparkling company… and spectacular views of the city lights? That’s what’s on the menu at 360 Restaurant, which provides a breathtaking vantage point 350 m (1,151 ft) above the twinkling city streets.
Past years have included holiday menus in addition to the restaurant’s seasonal offerings. Toast the season with a special bottle from the 360’s “cellar in the sky” with 550 international and Canadian wines on offer. BONUS: Complimentary access to the CN Tower’s Main Observation Level with a minimum food order.
Explore Canadian culture at a holiday arts event
Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market
Returning for its eighth annual year, the Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market is the perfect place to explore local art and find unique holiday gifts. Art, photography, sculptures, jewellery, fashion, home decor, skincare and more are all items to be expected at this event. – December 3, 2023, 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
CF Music at the Eaton Centre
Catch live performances showcasing local talent from various musical genres and backgrounds at the CF Eaton Centre. Weekly shows will follow in the lead-up to Christmas Eve. – Multiple dates
National Ballet of Canada's The Nutcracker
Hailed as "the best Nutcracker on the planet" by The Globe and Mail, the National Ballet of Canada's performance of The Nutcracker is a must-see. James Kudelka's famed adaptation puts a Canadian spin on the Russian classic, including snowballs, dancing bears and farm animals. – December 8–30, 2023
Christmas at the Castle at Casa Loma
This December, experience the wonder of the season at the spectacular Christmas at the Castle at Casa Loma. Stroll a dazzling wonderland of holiday decor—including a 12 m (40 ft) tall Christmas tree in the historic castle's Great Hall. Take part in festive activities and thrilling performances that are sure to be fun for the whole family - Select Dates, December 2023 – January 2024
Book a table at Blueblood, Casa Loma's award-winning steakhouse, for an extra special visit.
Chris, Mrs. - A New Holiday Musical at Winter Elgin Theatre
Be one of the first to enjoy Chris, Mrs. - A New Holiday Musical at Winter Elgin Theatre. This year’s biggest new family-friendly holiday production features a cast of 17 Canadian actors. Don't miss out on the holiday fun! - December 5 - 31, 2023