Another holiday season has come and gone, but there are definitely more good times to be had before we kiss 2021 goodbye. If you’ve got some extra days off this week and don’t know how to spend them, there are tons of activities and events around Toronto to keep you entertained. Bundle up and hit the ice for a dreamy skate surrounded by city lights, check out one of the remaining holiday light shows, hit up a winter fest, and enjoy this gorgeous time of year while it lasts.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Toronto this week!
CAVALCADE OF LIGHTS
Soak up the magic of the holidays with the city’s beloved annual event, the Cavalcade of Lights. This year, the event will run until January 2 at Nathan Phillips Square. The “reimagined festivities” will transform City Hall and its surroundings into a dazzling wonderland. Plus, get ready to lace up your skates and glide along the iconic twinkling rink at the square.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
When: Nightly from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. until January 2, 2022
TORONTO NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS
What better way to welcome the new year than with a fireworks show? The city will put on a dazzling fireworks display for the first time since the pandemic on December 31st, but it’ll be modified to keep big crowds from forming in one place. The “10-minute, high-altitude fireworks display” will be held at several locations along the waterfront, visible from the Scarborough shoreline all the way to Etobicoke.
Where: Toronto’s waterfront
Cost: Free
THE FOREST OF HIKARI
This New Year’s Eve, Chotto Matte is transporting guests into a Japanese light festival fused with the Peruvian rainforest. The opulent dinner party will see the restaurant as it’s never been before. As you enjoy your Fuji blossom cocktail and dine on the deluxe sharing menu, you’ll be treated to “live immersive entertainment,” DJs, and a special keepsake to take home with you. A bottomless mimosa brunch will also be offered on the 31st for $65 per person.
Where: 161 Bay St
Cost: $150 per person
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SKY SKATE TORONTO
Another season of skating in Toronto’s skies has begun. The popular Sky Skate rooftop rink at The Porch is one of the most picturesque spots in town for gliding under the stars. There are heaters all around the rink to make your skate a bit more comfortable, but you’ll definitely still want to dress for a typical Canadian winter night. You’ll also be able to warm up with a drink at the bar afterward!
Where: 250 Adelaide St. W
When: Various times
HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT CASA LOMA
Casa Loma’s spectacular Holiday Light Tour is one of the city’s most breathtaking sights. Wander through the glowing gardens and tunnels on the property’s grounds, enjoy the live entertainment and take dreamy holiday photos! You can even upgrade your experience to VIP, which includes line bypass, as well as food and beverage credits.
Where: 1 Austin Terrace
When: Until December 30th
SNOW MAGIC
Something magical has arrived at Ontario Place and it’s like a snow globe come to life! Snow Magic is inviting you to “explore a wonder-filled adventure inspired by fire, ice, and light.” Drive your way through 1.7 km of magical sights, including 18 art installations, crystalline caverns, awe-inspiring creatures and “mysterious sights that only dreams are made of.”
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
When: Until January 16, 2022
CANADA’S WONDERLAND WINTERFEST
Canada’s Wonderland has transformed into a holiday fairytale for its annual WinterFest event. In addition to hundreds of twinkling trees and millions of spectacular lights strung throughout the amusement park, this season’s WinterFest features ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, tons of live shows and entertainment, two 50-foot Christmas trees, and carolers singing from old fashioned cable car trolleys.
Where: Canada’s Wonderland
When: Until December 31st
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DISTILLERY DISTRICT WINTER VILLAGE
The iconic annual tradition that takes place every holiday season in the historic Distillery District is officially back, with a brand new name, look, and feel. You can wander past festive stalls selling handmade gifts and delicious treats, marvel at the towering twinkling trees, and take in the sights and sounds of this special time of year. This year’s market is described as “Toronto’s most magical shopping and dining experience,” and it’s definitely living up to its description!
When: Until December 31st
Where: The Distillery Historic District
WINDOW WONDERLAND
The Junction’s free immersive urban art walk has returned for another year, featuring unique displays by artists from around the world. There are 20 augmented reality installations that you can see come to life by pointing your phone camera at the artwork in the windows. You can spend an entire afternoon wandering past this free outdoor show and then go for a skate at High Park or check out the local shops and restaurants in the area.
When: Until January 2nd, 2022
Where: The Junction
SNOWFLAKE WALK IN HIGH PARK
Take a walk through the High Park Zoo to see rows of twinkling trees and animals all at the same time. You have until early January to enjoy this holiday activity in Toronto’s sprawling park in the west end. You can even bring your skates and hit the free enclosed rink at the park. Thet event is PWYC with a suggested amount of $10 per group.
When: Until January 8th, 2022
Where: High Park Zoo
