When the twinkle lights start to go up, merry tunes crowd the airwaves and window displays turn red, you know the season to be jolly is here. And this season, we have even more to be jolly about! Festivals and events are ready to welcome Toronto residents back and in-person for the most festive season yet.
Toronto’s holiday glory is back in full form this year, with a ton of great events popping up around the region. From Christmas markets to winter festivals to drive-thru displays, there’s a lot that can be enjoyed with family and friends to give this season a very merry start and finish.
But before you go ahead and start planning your seasonal to-do’s & gift lists, don’t forget the most important part of the holidays- to spread joy and kindness, wherever you go this season.
That’s why we’ve teamed up with Destination Toronto, to bring you this list of 11 of the best holiday events and festivals that you can hit up in Toronto this season!
Distillery Winter Village
Our fave Christmas market is back, only this time with a different name and a whole lot more to see! Introducing you to the Distillery Winter Village, this season’s newest picture-perfect holiday shopping experience. Boasting tons of local vendors, cafes, eateries and bars, a 55 foot tall Christmas tree, lit up streets, and more, this is a must-do experience for any Torontonian to get into the holiday groove. In terms of pure holiday cheer, this one is going to be hard to beat.
Where: Distillery District
When: November 18 − December 31
Nutcracker Ballet
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For the most enchanting of evenings in classic Toronto-fashion, you’ll want to snag tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet. The iconic show is a classic holiday tradition in the city and like everything else, it’s back on this year, with a few minor changes. If you’re looking for an upscale night on the town with your family or S.O., Nutcracker Ballet is an absolute must during the holidays.
Where: 145 Queen St W
When: December 10 — December 31, 2021
Wonderland’s Winterfest
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Is there a better way to experience holiday magic than a fairytale wonderland? Well, at Canada’s Wonderland this year, that’s what you can expect. Skating on Snow Flake Lake, the iconic tree lighting ceremony, carolers in a cable car trolley, two giant Christmas trees and several shows are just the start for what you can experience. And one thing we know for sure? There’s enough at Canada’s Wonderland to keep the smile on your face all season long.
Where: Canada’s Wonderland
When: November 13 — December 31
Sweaters and Snowflakes
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This is the annual holiday pop-up in the city’s downtown core that every thirsty (and legal) Torontonian looks forward to each year. With great food, good wine, spiked hot chocolates, a Christmas market, live band and no-ticket general access- the place has everything to bring the holiday cheer to us all. Plus, there’ll be fire pits and heaters to keep us warm and cozy on the chilliest of nights!
Where: 621 Richmond St
When: December 3rd — 26th & 31st
Polar Winter Fest
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When it comes to festive, family-friendly outings this season, Polar Winter Fest is right at the top of the list. Whether you’re holiday shopping at the market, taking little ones on rides, or capping off the evening with festive-themed drinks and bites, this monster walkthrough fest is surely the destination to dazzle your family all day or night long.
Where: Bandshell Park, 210 Princes’ Blvd
When: November 25 — December 26, 2021
Immersive Nutcracker
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The age-old Nutcracker story has wowed generations for years, and now it’s going to wow us in a whole different way! This year, Torontonians can enjoy a brand new 30-minute Immersive Nutcracker experience, giving you a captivating magical display that will surely have sugar plums dancing in your heads throughout the holiday season.
When: Open on Saturday, November 20, 2021
Where: 1, Yonge Street, Toronto
Snow Magic
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With 18 magical art installations, 3 different worlds, enchanted forests and a real blowing blizzard, Snow Magic lives every bit up to its name. Whether you’re driving through with friends, family, or that special someone, this immersive drive-thru experience is just what we need to liven up the holiday magic.
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
When: November 12, 2021 — January 16, 2022
Canadian Tire Christmas Trail
This is your chance to circle the North Pole, witness Santa’s village, see Santa’s elves at work, all while bringing the true spirit of Christmas to life. Another immersive drive-thru experience to help spread the cheer this holiday season, and in more ways than one. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Jumpstart Charities for children and youth, so you can feel even better while having a jolly time.
Where: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy
When: November 13t — December 23, 2021
There you have it, folks! Some of the finest and most festive holiday events you can find in and around the GTA. Want more? We don’t blame you! To explore more of what our beautiful city has to offer, head over to the Destination Toronto website. And most of all, have the happiest of holidays and don’t stop sharing the joy!
