November is 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 foodie events to cultural experiences. Here are 11 of the best free things to do in Toronto this November.
The best things in life are free, and these are the best you’ll find in Toronto this month:
Recent Posts:
Toronto Eaton Centre has over 100 jobs open & here’s who is hiring
6 of the best warehouse sales coming to Toronto
Light Up the Square 2022
Cheers to the holidays! Mississauga will light up Celebration Square for the holidays and host its annual tree-lighting ceremony this month. On November 26, Light Up the Square will kick off the festive season with ice skating, food trucks, Christmas tree lighting and so much more.
When: November 26th, 2022
Where: Celebration Square – 300 City Centre Drive
Union Winter Free Public Skating Rink
The Union Station skating rink will open back up this November with its biggest ice surface yet, and that includes free skate rentals too!
The free public skating rink is located in front of the transit hub. You’ll get to glide along the ice with views of the city all around you and a live DJ supplying the tunes. You can also get some free lessons and head inside for live entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Where: Union Station, 65 Front Street West
When: November 28th, 2022 to January 29th, 2023
Distillery District Winter Village Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Distillery District is kicking off its Winter Village with a Tree Lighting Ceremony this month. The breathtaking 50-foot-tall White Spruce tree will come alive with twinkling bright lights on Thursday, November 17th. The celebration will be accompanied by carolers, special guests, and, of course, Santa Claus to commemorate the beginning of this special time of year. Though tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4 PM, since the event lands on a Thursday, it’s free to attend.
When: Thursday, November 17th, 2022 at 6 PM
Where: The Distillery Historic District
Conquer Your Comfort Zone
It’s time to take the plunge – right into the cold waters of Lake Ontario. Conquer Your Comfort Zone welcomes all to kick off the winter season with the biggest community cold plunge. It’s free to participate!
When: November 6th, 2022
Where: Woodbine Beach 1675 Lake Shore Boulevard E
Hit up the Canada Job Expo
Landing the perfect job is a long and daunting task so make it easier for yourself and check out the Canada Job Expo this November. Meet with recruiters and show what you can offer! Make sure to reserve your spot online.
When: November 24th, 2022, 11 AM to 3 PM
Where: North York Memorial Hall – 5110 Yonge Street
Toronto Santa Claus Parade
Get excited, friends! The Toronto Santa Claus Parade is making an in-person comeback this November. This parade has been a Toronto tradition since 1905 and on November 20th, it will delight the city with a big dose of holiday cheer. All are welcome to gather and witness the amazing floats, bands, marchers, and celebrity clowns make their way through the streets — and Mrs. Claus and Santa, of course!
When: Sunday, November 20th, 2022
Where: Parade route TBA
Cavalcade of Lights 2022
Cavalcade of Lights is an annual event that kicks off the official start of the holiday season in Toronto. Nathan Phillips Square comes to life with a glittering tree, ice skating, and, of course, lights. Watch in amazement as City Hall is illuminated with twinkling bulbs, and live performers provide incredible entertainment on stage.
When: November 26th, 2022, 6 PM
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
Outdoor skating at City of Toronto rinks
Get ready to lace up your skates! There are tons of City-run public rinks opening for the season this November, including Christie Pits, College Park, High Park, Kew Gardens, Mel Lastman Square, Nathan Phillips Square, and many more.
Where: See all locations
Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market
Want a head start on your holiday shopping? You can shop directly from the hands of 120+ amazingly talented Toronto artists and artisans this month at a market under the Gardiner Expressway. The market also features food vendors and DJ Kid Artik! So bring your dancing shoes, you’ll be dancing while shopping. Get your free tickets online.
When: November 5th, 2022, 11 AM to 6 PM
Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Blvd
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic 2022
Kick off the holidays with the exciting return of Holiday Magic on November 26th. The Bloor-Yorkville BIA welcomes all to enjoy the Christmas spirit with its tree lighting ceremony taking place on Cumberland Street and at the Village of Yorkville Park. The event will be hosted by Traci Melchor and includes a live performance from Grammy and JUNO award-winning Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk. Toronto-based musician Jeremie Albino will kick off performances before Kreviazuk takes the stage and sings hit singles from her holiday album.
When: November 26th, 2022, 5 PM to 7 PM
Where: Village of Yorkville Park
Take a tour of the Bridle Path
Explore one of Toronto’s most “affluent and prestigious” neighbourhoods in the city – The Bridle Path. Register for this FREE, public walking tour. Open to all ages!
When: November 26th 2022, 9 AM to 10:30 AM
Where: Toronto Botanical Garden – 777 Lawrence Avenue East
