Toronto’s festive season is in full swing and that means we’re in for a busy few weeks, filled with holiday cheer of course. If you’re like us and you’re eager to get a jump on all the holiday experiences happening in Toronto, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of holiday markets and events kicking off this November and here’s what we have so far.
Whether you’re looking to shop for one-of-a-kind items, take part in Christmas tree lightings, or sip on holiday drinks, Toronto has got you covered with the best experiences around.
Now all you have to do is decide where you’d like to go first.
Here are 8 of the most magical holiday experiences in Toronto.
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Miracle Toronto
Miracle has been a holiday tradition in Toronto since 2018, and it’ll be bringing its over-the-top Christmas cheer to the west end starting on November 17th.
If you’ve never been, Miracle is more than a holiday-themed pop-up cocktail bar — it’s basically a Christmas fever dream in real life. The team behind Civil Liberties is bringing this concept to life, and they’re stocked up with all the tinsel, twinkle lights, gift wrapping, candy canes, Santas, and Christmas trees needed.
Where: 875 Bloor Street West
When: November 17th to December 30th, 2023
Distillery Winter Village Grand Opening
The Distillery Winter Village is back for the season, and Santa will be in Toronto for it. And it is sooner than you think! The grand opening and tree lighting takes place on Thursday, November 16th.
At 6 PM, Santa Claus himself will flip the switch, lighting up the majestic Christmas tree that will sparkle every evening during the festival.
But, this isn’t just a regular-sized tree — this year’s Silver Fir will tower at 56 feet, making it the tallest tree ever on display at the Winter Village.
There will be so much to experience at the Village this year, including an all-new Candy Cane Forest on Gristmill Lane, adorable 7 ft snow people, and even holiday photo ops for dogs!
When: November 16th, 2023 at 6 PM
Where: 1 Trinity Street, Distillery Historic District, Toronto
Cost: $15 per person (General Admission)
Cavalcade of Lights – Tree lighting ceremony
Every year, the Cavalcade of Lights takes over Nathan Phillips Square with a dazzling array of holiday lights and offerings. According to the city, the square will be set aglow with 300,000 energy-efficient twinkling lights, interactive displays, and festive décor around the beloved public skating rink.
On November 25, everyone is welcome to join the opening night celebration and enjoy the musical performances, ice skating, and more. Expect an evening of festive activities, including a list of entertainment from multiple cultural backgrounds.
When:Â November 25th, 2023 from 3 PM to 11 PM
Where:Â Nathan Phillips Square
Cost:Â FREE
Great Hall Holiday Market
Knock off some stuff on that holiday list of yours at the Great Hall Holiday Market. You can find one-of-a-kind items for that special someone this holiday season. Shop from 50 different vendors offering locally handmade goods. There will also be some delicious eats to enjoy.
It’s a one-day event that you don’t want to miss out on.
When:Â November 26th from 11 AM to 5 PM
Where:Â 1187 Queen St West
Cost: FREE
Holiday Magic 2023
Kick off the holidays with the exciting return of Holiday Magic on November 25th. 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.
This year’s event will be hosted by award-winning Singer and TV Host, Keshia Chante and includes a live performance from five-time JUNO Award-winning Canadian Jazz singer and songwriter Matt Dusk.
When:Â November 25th from 5 PM to 7 PM
Where:Â Yorkville BIA
Holiday Hills
Toronto’s annual winter festival, Holiday Hills is back this November.
It will feature brand-new immersive installations, along with local businesses for holiday shopping, festive food and drink offerings, community-led events, workshops and so much more.
Starting November 17th and running until December 31st, expect a fun-filled, festive festival for all to enjoy.
When:Â November 17th to December 31st, 2023
Where:Â stackt market, 28 Bathurst Street
Cost:Â FREE
Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest
The most wonderful time of the year kicks off at Canada’s Wonderland on November 17th. WinterFest is gearing up to transform the amusement park into a breathtaking holiday experience.
The annual WinterFest is sure to be full of fun and festive activities, including ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, live shows, millions of spectacular lights, and hundreds of sparkling trees throughout the park.
When: November 17th, 2023 to January 6th, 2024 (Select nights)
Where: Canada’s Wonderland
Cost: From $29.99 per person
Riverside Holiday Market
Head to Toronto’s east end for the Riverside Holiday Market on November 26th from 10 AM to 4 PM at Riverside Common Park. Shop from over 20 local vendors and enjoy free activities like a meet and greet with Santa and holiday crafts for kids. Enjoy the live music and get into the festive spirit with songs by holiday carolers.
When:Â November 26th from 10 AM to 4 PM
Where:Â 657 Queen St East
Cost:Â FREE
