There’s a sort of warm and fuzzy feeling you get when the holiday season comes around. Maybe it’s the magic in the air as the city transforms into a winter wonderland or that sense of romance that dances around us this time of year. Whatever it may be, there’s joy to be found, and having someone special to experience it with is the cherry on top. There are so many date ideas in Toronto to enjoy, from dreamy candlelit concerts to fun holiday village experiences.
Here are 11 of the most fun and romantic date ideas you have to try this holiday season in Toronto.
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Head to a dreamy Nordic spa
Temperatures are dropping here in Ontario, and what better way to warm up than with hot therapeutic waters and delicious hot tea? You can enjoy both in one place at Terra Nova Nordic Spa & Cafe. It’s truly a relaxing and romantic date experience.
When: Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM
Where: 596145 Highway 59 North, Woodstock
Cost: $80 per person (Nordic Spa)
Go on a holiday drive through
Add this to your list of date ideas! Hop into your car and hit the light trail. You’ll cruise past stunning light displays right from the comfort of your own car.
Where: 425 Bingemans Centre Dr. Kitchener, Ontario
When: November 17th, 2023 to January 6th, 2024
Explore Wonderland’s WinterFest
Nothing’s more romantic than skating on a frozen lake with the sound of Christmas carols and the glow of twinkling trees all around you. This year’s WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland is packed with attractions you’re sure to adore, including amusement park rides, and live entertainment.
When: November 17th, 2023 to January 6th, 2024 (Select nights)
Where: Canada’s Wonderland
Hop on the Santa Treats Train ride
Port Stanley Terminal Rail has been operating for over 40 years so if you and your significant other are history buffs, this is the place for you. It is a “heritage, diesel-powered locomotive” and it travels along the former London to Port Stanley track through the scenic Kettle Creek Valley between Port Stanley and St. Thomas. Can’t go wrong with a scenic ride.
Where: 309 Bridge Street, Port Stanley
When: November 18th until December 17th, 2023 (Select dates)
Wander in Distillery’s Winter Village
This year’s Distillery Winter Village title sponsor is Parfums Christian Dior, who designed this year’s centrepiece tree and it promises to dazzle! The tree features 400 custom midnight blue ornaments, 1,700 shiny and matte gold balls, 70,000 twinkling lights, and 1,000 custom Dior star charms. Expect to snack on delicious holiday treats and drinks, and shop for last minute gifts. The Village will remain open until December 31st. Free entry to the village is available on weekdays and during the day on weekends from November 18th to December 23rd. However, tickets are required on weekend evenings.
When: November 16th to December 31st, 2023
Where: 55 Mill Street, Toronto
Go to the Nutcracker ballet
The National Ballet of Canada has one of the finest versions of the in James Kudelka’s staging from 1995, which opens at a Christmas Eve party in rural 19th century Russia, according to NBC. There’s no better way to make the holiday season feel complete in Toronto than this enchanting show.
Where: 145 Queen St W
When: December 8th, 2023 to 30th, 2023
Hang out at luxury holiday pop-up bar
One of Toronto’s most beloved and magical holiday pop-ups is coming back this year. Get ready for The Thirsty Elf pop-up at the Fairmont Royal York. Celebrate the holidays with your boo with an exciting tree-lighting to over-the-top cocktails.
When: November 22nd to December 22nd
Where: Fairmont Royal York, 1OO Front Street West
Cost: Varies
Experience a real-life Christmas castle
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 prepare to take the most sickeningly cute couple photos on the planet!
Where: 1 Austin Terrace
When: Select dates from December 2023 to January 2024
Attend a candlelit holiday concert
Nothing’s more romantic than flickering candlelight — add a dreamy live performance inside a stunning church and you’ve got yourself the ultimate setting for quality time with your S/O. The intimate venue is bathed in the glow of candles and the sound of the string quartet playing holiday songs just adds to the special atmosphere.
Where: The Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto – 115 Simpson Ave
When: Multiple dates throughout December 2023
Santafest at Santa’s Village
Need more date ideas? You don’t have to travel to the North Pole to step into the world of Old Saint Nick. In fact, you can pay a visit to Santa’s Village right here in Ontario. Grab your boo and head to Santa’s Village, located in the gorgeous forest landscape of Muskoka. This Christmas-themed amusement park that’s open year-round for kids and families, but in the wintertime, it transforms into a charming festive experience known as Santafest, which kicks off on November 18.
When: November 18th until December 23rd, 2023 (select dates)
Where: 1624 Golden Beach Road, Bracebridge
Cost: $32.95 per person
Take a trip to a charming festive town
Christmas in the big city is a beautiful thing, but nothing compares to the charming atmosphere in Ontario’s small towns. The historic buildings, quaint boutiques, and festive decor make this special season one of the best times to visit, not to mention all of the local holiday markets and twinkling light displays you can experience while you’re there. Supporting local has truly never been so fun.
Where: See the best ones here
