It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and we’re about a few days away from walking in a winter wonderland. The city is in jolly spirits right now, but if holiday cheer isn’t your cup of tea, there’s plenty more to do than see twinkling lights and take selfies with Santa. Tons of the city’s ice skating rinks are opening up for the season this weekend, the art exhibits are in full swing, and there’s even a dessert festival to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Take a look below for 10 of the best things to do in Toronto this weekend!
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 from November 27 until January 2 at Nathan Phillips Square. The “reimagined festivities” will transform City Hall and its surroundings into a dazzling wonderland every evening starting this weekend. Plus, get ready to lace up your skates and glide on the iconic twinkling rink at the square.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
When: Nightly 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., November 27th — January 2nd
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
SWEETS FESTIVAL
Got a sweet tooth you need to satisfy? Then you won’t want to miss this outdoor celebration of all your favourite desserts. With so many delicious vendors to try at this free outdoor festival, you’ll be drooling from the moment you arrive. Bring on the sugar high!
Where: 520 Progress Ave
When: November 27th — November 28th
Recent Posts
Base-jumper with zero fear plunges from Toronto skyscraper on skis (VIDEO)
6 of the most highly-anticipated spots set to open in Toronto in 2022
View this post on Instagram
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
SIPPIN’ SANTA
Surfs up for Santa Claus! Toronto’s holiday bar is infused with the tropics this festive season and it’s Old Saint Nick like we’ve never seen him before. Sippin’ Santa is the companion pop-up to Miracle, and you can expect the festive signature flair of the Miracle experience with a tropical twist. Rock your best Hawaiian shirt or your ugliest Christmas sweater, or incorporate both into one confusing festive look.
When: Until December 26th
Where: 866 Bloor St W
HOLIDAY NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Another festive event is coming to the GTA just north of Toronto in Vaughan. The “holiday lights spectacular” sold out in 2020 and is coming back even bigger this time around as a walk-through immersive experience and Holiday Fair in the Square. Once you experience the dazzling lights, you can make your way to the market to do a little present shopping and warm up with something tasty to drink.
When: November 26th, 2021 — January 2nd, 2022
Where: 80 Interchange Way
ONE OF A KIND SHOW
Toronto’s flagship holiday craft market is finally back and oh, how we’ve missed it! This is the ultimate place to shop for special gifts for your loved ones, and spoil yourself a little while you’re at it! The 11-day show will have over 400 talented exhibitors selling 100% unique handmade creations, plus festive decor to get you into the holiday spirit.
Where: Enercare Centre, 100 Princes’ Blvd
When: November 25th — December 5th
View this post on Instagram
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 16, 2022
THE IMMERSIVE NUTCRACKER – A WINTER MIRACLE
Over a course of 30-minutes, this magical performance – which kicks off November 20th – will take its guests into the story of a girl, the mouse king and a heroic nutcracker using projections, special effects and more. Written by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker has delighted, dazzled and enchanted families all over the world for over 130 years – but never like this.
When: Until December 26th
Where: 1 Yonge St
BURLINGTON FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Take a little trip out of the city for a breathtaking Christmas light show by the waterfront. Wander through a park filled with larger-than-life displays, twinkling lights, and multicoloured trees. Hopefully, it will be made even better with some gently falling snow. The festival is free and even dogs are welcome to join the fun!
When: November 26th, 2021 — January 8th, 2022
Where: Spencer Smith Park, 1400 Lakeshore Rd
Have a fun and festive weekend, TO!
