Image via Fareen Karim
The most wonderful time of year has one key ingredient: heading to Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village. Well, the festivities kicked off last night, meaning the festive spot is officially open for the season. While the treats, warm drinks, and shopping are top tier, one of the best things to do while there is to get some great holiday photos with friends and family. We scouted out the best locations – so take some inspo from us, and get snappin’ those pictures!
We know it, we love it, and it’s perfect for photos. You may have to wait in a small lineup, but it’ll be worth it.
Outside of Madrina Bar y Tapas is a similar photo spot to the heart — the wreath. Hopefully, the lineups here aren’t as long as the heart!
Excited for Stranger Things season five? The season is releasing episodes all through the holiday season, so if you’re a big fan, you need to get a photo at this pop-up. Not only is the light-up letter wall giving a festive look, but it’s also a callback to one of the show’s most memorable moments from the first season.
Straight down from where the heart is (at the Parliament entrance), you’ll see some vendors, and to the right of them, a cozy fire pit. It’s the perfect spot to sip on your drink and snap a few photos.
Another obvious one, but I couldn’t not mention it. Yes, the beloved countdown to Christmas! If you can get there on a day where the number is even (30 days, 10 days, etc.), it makes for an extra aesthetic photo, in my opinion.
While most people like getting a close-up with the tree, I think this exact spot makes for a way better photo. Come in from the Mill Street entrance, and get all the lights and the tree in your picture. Perfection.
The Naughty or Nice bar is the ultimate mid-market stop. You can find it behind Mill Street Brew Pub, and not only grab a beverage, but also get a great picture with the sign and all of the lights.
If you walk down Tank House Lane, you’ll see this beautiful covered patio. If you go inside, there are tons of lights and decor, and it’s usually not very busy inside.
Outside of Fika by the Cherry streetcar stop is the perfect photo opportunity: Santa’s sleigh. It’s too adorable not to grab a picture.
The holiday season is officially here! Be sure to plan your visit to the Distillery Winter Village ASAP – and clear up some space in your phone for photos.
When: From now until Jan. 4, 2026
Where: The Distillery District – 55 Mill St.
Cost: $15 admission
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