Ready or not, the festive season is fast approaching. Days are getting shorter, nights are getting colder, and our first snowfall of the season is right around the corner. But that’s no excuse to hide at home in your PJs all month, especially when there are so many affordable things to do in Toronto this November! Whether you want to load up on all the holiday cheer you can handle, see some local art, or stuff your face at a poutine festival, this month is sure to keep you (and your wallet!) happy.
Here are some of the best free and cheap things to do in and around Toronto this November.
LONG WINTER: TOGETHER APART
Toronto’s annual winter-long arts and music event series is returning this month! You’ll get to experience the works of Toronto’s emerging artists and performers, dance the night away to live shows and experience the togetherness we’ve missed out on for so many months. Tickets are $15 in advance to reserve a place ahead of time, and PWYC at the door.
Where: St. Anne’s, 270 Gladstone Ave
When: November 26th — November 27th
WINTER VILLAGE HOLIDAY MARKET
The iconic annual tradition that takes place every holiday season in the historic Distillery District is officially coming back this year, with a brand new name, look, and feel. You’ll get to 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” of the holiday season. Tickets cost $8 each but are only required on Fridays after 4 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday.
When: November 18th — December 31st
Where: The Distillery District
SKATING BY THE WATERFRONT
The Harbourfront Centre’s revamped rink is set to open on November 19th and it’s one of the city’s most picturesque spots for an outdoor skate. The rink is nestled along the Lake Ontario shoreline, along with an ice loop in the “south orchard” that connects to the rest of the rink. And once you’re done, you can warm up with a hot drink from Boxcar Social right next door.
When: Opens November 19th
Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W
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BURLINGTON FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Take a little trip out of the city for a FREE 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
THE BENTWAY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Get your holiday shopping on extra early this year at this FREE Christmas market with over 70 artisan vendors. Shop for handmade items, clothing, decor, art, and more as you dance along to the live DJ show. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll have tons of food options to choose from too. It’s all happening at The Bentway under the Gardiner Expressway!
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
When: November 6th, 11 a.m. — 5 p.m.
POUTINE FESTIVAL
The title pretty much says it all. Come hungry and get ready to feast on all the squeaky cheese, fries, and gravy you can handle at this FREE festival. Whether you’d prefer to eat it with a fork or topped on a pizza, you’ll be gobbling up every last bite of this Canadian comfort food staple. There will be tons of vendors to try, so prepare for a feast unlike any other.
Where: 520 Progress Ave
When: November 6th — November 7th
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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
SIPPIN’ SANTA
Surfs up for Santa Claus! Toronto’s getting a holiday bar infused with the tropics this festive season and it’s Old Saint Nick like we’ve never seen him before. The bar will be returning in November with another jolly-meets-beachy pop-up. No reservations or tickets are required for entry, so you can splurge a little on their signature festive cocktails with a tropical twist.
When: November 2021
Where: Bloor St W & Ossington Ave (Address TBA)
