Well, it’s officially the last weekend before Christmas. From holiday events to family get-togethers to much-needed vacation days, there’s a whole lot to look forward to right about now. What better way to bask in the joy of this moment than by hitting up the exciting events happening around town this weekend? Now’s the time to wander under twinkling lights, much on delicious food, and do a little last-minute gift shopping while you’re at it.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Toronto this weekend.
TORONTO MADE MARKET
Support local this holiday season and stock up on gifts made by some of the city’s best vendors. This free pop-up market will have a huge variety of handmade goods to shop for, including jewelry, candles, bath products, tasty treats, artwork, and much more. Skip the crowds and opt for some unique gifts for your loved ones that you won’t find at the mall.
When: December 19th, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: The Great Hall, 1087 Queen St W
FROST BITES FESTIVAL
Square One is hosting a weekend-long holiday festival called Frost Bites, featuring delicious eats, festive vibes, and a mean old Grinch. Wander your way through a sparkling winter forest, drop off a letter to Santa in the giant on-site mailbox, and bring your appetite for the endless variety of dishes you’ll get to try.
Where: 100 City Centre Dr, P3 Parking Lot
When: December 17th —December 19th
BINGEMAN’S GIFT OF LIGHTS
This holiday drive-thru is one of the best spots to enjoy dazzling festive colours from the warmth of your car. Cruise through glowing laneways and past twinkling animated displays while you jam to Christmas tunes and sip on hot chocolate. Just crank your radio to 103.3 FM and enjoy the show.
Where: 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener
When: Until January 9th, 2022
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BEYOND MONET
This breathtaking exhibit is now open for the first time in the world — here’s a sneak peek so you know exactly what to expect. Over 400 of Claude Monet’s works come alive before your eyes through vivid 360-degree displays that swirl all around you, enhanced by sound effects and music. Forget the world and get lost the mind and masterpieces of this great painter.
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St W
When: Various times
PICASSO: PAINTING THE BLUE PERIOD
Joining the ranks of Monet and Van Gogh is Pablo Picasso, with a landmark celebration of his iconic modernist masterpieces. The Picasso exhibit now running at the AGO takes visitors through the early projects from his signature Blue Period with over 100 works sourced from 15 countries. You’ll get to experience the world as he interpreted it as a young artist in the early 1900s.
Where: 317 Dundas St W
When: Until January 16th, 2022
THE THIRSTY ELF POP-UP BAR
A magical tradition has returned to Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York. The Fairmont has created the perfect home for you to celebrate the holidays this festive season. From tree-lighting to over-the-top cocktails, you’ll want to stop The Thirsty Elf pop-up in Toronto. Christmas sweaters are encouraged as you enjoy kitschy décor while sipping on cheerful, festive cocktails.
When: Until December 18th
Where: Fairmont Royal York, 1OO Front Street W
MIRACLE BAR
Well jingle our bells and call us Nick. This November, pre-order an Uber and get your Mariah Carey on at the Miracle Toronto pop-up bar, a Christmas-themed haunt that will knock your stockings off. With kitschy decor and over-the-top festive drinks, those looking to get holly jolly among friends and gift boxes can visit the Miracle as long as they’re vaxxed and can handle their liquor.
When: Until December 26th
Where: 875 Bloor St
HOLIDAY STREET MARKET
It’s a wildly exciting holiday season here in Toronto, and joining the festive fun is the Holiday Street Market at Scarborough Town Centre. Between unlimited rides, incredible food and unique attractions, you’ll be feeling as excited as a kid on Christmas morning. New to the event this year is the walk-in Christmas tree, plus returning favourites like the food market, Lover’s Lane, and fire pit lounge.
Where: Scarborough Town Centre
When: December 17th – December 19th
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POLAR WINTER FESTIVAL
Toronto’s biggest walkthrough holiday market and festival has opened its doors for the holidays. Not only is it a vendor market with all kinds of treats and gifts to shop for, but it’s also an immersive walkthrough experience with larger-than-life displays, an amusement park with rides, an outdoor cocktail lounge, and a destination for all things festive.
Where: Bandshell Park, 210 Princes’ Blvd
When: Until December 26th
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
Have a spectacular weekend, Toronto!
