December is almost here and although it’s sure to get cold pretty soon, you won’t want to miss all the fun and exciting events in the city – especially when they’re free. From holiday events to cultural experiences. Here are 10 of the best free things to do in Toronto this December.
The best things in life are free, and these are the best you’ll find in Toronto this month:
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Explore this local Art Crawl
Enjoy a full day of live music, creative people, and beautiful works of art. The annual event takes place at The Great Hall, Sunday, December 4th, 2022, and is free to attend. You can shop from over 70 different local artists and designers showcasing their art, fashion, jewelry, home decor and so much more.
When: Sunday, December 4th from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Where: The Great Hall – 1087 Queen Street West
Cavalcade of Lights
The beloved event kicks off Toronto’s holiday season, lasting until January 7. This year’s festivities are inspired by international lantern, fire, and light festivals. It’s set to transform City Hall into a spectacular wonderland every night.
When: Until January 7th, 2023
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
Distillery District Winter Village
Toronto’s famous historic district is lit up for the holidays! The Distillery District’s iconic Winter Village is back for the season and it’s nothing short of spectacular. Under a canopy of lights and in the dreamy Christmas atmosphere, you’ll get to explore rows and rows of food and shopping cabins offering specially curated seasonal items and gifts as well as delicious food. Free entry to the village is available on weekday evenings and during the day on weekends until December 23rd.
When: Until December 31st, 2022
Where: The Distillery Historic District
Netflix Canada Holiday House
From festive, fun interactive, and Instagrammable moments to TikTok-ready spaces, sweet treats, and so much more, you’ll be feeling a little less Scrooge-ish and a little more joyful, this December.
When: December 1, from 3 PM to 9 PM, December 2, from 11 AM to 9 PM, December 3 from 10 AM to 9 PM, December 4 from 10 AM to 7 PM
Where: Campbell House Museum – 160 Queen Street W
Go for a fun winter skate
It sure does feel like winter outside, which means the season of outdoor skating is about to begin! When it comes to outdoor skating rinks, Toronto has no shortage of fantastic options. From ice trails through the city to DJ skate nights in the heart of downtown, these rinks will make you want to lace up your skates all season long.
When: This holiday season
Where: Multiple locations across Toronto
See over-the-top Christmas homes
One of the best things to do during the holiday season is to throw on a festive playlist and go on a cruise to see holiday lights. There are a few exceptional homes in this city that are worth driving out of your neighbourhood for. In fact, these houses are locally famous for bringing their A-game every year and this holiday season is no different! The best part is that they’re totally free to visit, and several of them accept donations for specific charities too.
Where: Various locations
Take a tour of the Distillery District
Explore one of Toronto’s most historic communities. Big or small, all are welcome to learn more about its past with this free public walking tour. Did you know that the district was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988? You’ll learn about fun facts like this and more with this tour.
When: Saturday, December 17th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Where: Distillery District – 31 Trinity St.
Kensington Market Winter Solstice Festival
This annual event in Kensington Market is free to attend and this year, the stores will be open late and the streets filled with performers, music, and good vibes. Dress warmly for this winter night celebration and get ready to eat, shop, and enjoy the season in this beloved Toronto neighbourhood.
When: December 21st, starting at 6:00 PM
Where: Kensington Market
Sunday Morning Yoga with lululemon
Join lululemon ambassadors this month for a free Sunday Morning Yoga Class. There are three dates and will all take place starting at 10:00 AM. They’re open to all levels with each week being taught by different lululemon ambassadors. Washrooms and changerooms are available in The Attic however there are no showers. Make sure to bring in a water bottle. If you happen to forget to fill it up, don’t worry – there are water stations available. As for yoga mats, they will be provided.
When: December 4th, 11th, and 18th from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Where: lululemon Queen Street – 318 Queen St W
Window Wonderland
Toronto’s award-winning urban art walk has returned to the west end for the third year in a row. This magical outdoor gallery is free to visit and features 20 unique augmented reality (AR) installations, showcasing the work of 40 artists in total. Also taking place during Window Wonderland is an indoor art exhibit showcasing pieces of artwork from the 2022 muralists where you can purchase their work.
When: Until January 1st, 2023
Where: See the full event map
