The most wonderful time of the year has arrived in our city. The streets are aglow with holiday cheer and the festive vibes have us smiling from ear to ear. Whether you plan to participate in the cheer or simply wish to savour this beautiful time of year, there are so many things to do in Toronto this December that are worth adding to your calendar.
Here is the only guide you need to the very best that Toronto has to offer this December. Have a happy one, friends!
Holiday Events & Experiences
Miracle Toronto
Nothing says holiday season in the city like a festive cocktail bar, and this year, Toronto’s iconic Miracle pop-up bar is back.
‘With kitschy holiday décor, cocktails by the team at Civil Liberties, and the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to,” the description says.
You’ll be feeling more jolly than Santa Claus with a few Jingle Ball Nogs in your system, the Christmas music, and the endlessly amusing holiday decorations.
Where: 875 Bloor Street West
When: Until December 31st, 2022
Holiday Hills
Toronto’s annual winter festival, Holiday Hills, is back featuring local businesses for holiday shopping, festive food and drink offerings, community-led events, workshops and so much more.
There’s a new addition to the festivities this year – the Holiday Hills Fun Zone. Featuring the huge Ferris wheel for those stunning city views, and a one-of-a-kind 40 x 40 ft. Crokicurl ice rink.
When: Until December 31st, 2022
Where: stackt market, 28 Bathurst Street
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 weekdays and during the day on weekends until December 23rd.
When: Until December 31st, 2022
Where: The Distillery Historic District
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Sponsored Pick: STEP INTO A WINTER WONDERLAND AT THIS BOTANICAL GARDEN NEAR TORONTO
Bundle up and get ready for the magic that is the Royal Botanical Gardens WInter Wonders event! Back for another year from Nov 23- Jan 8, RBG is bringing back its spectacular light display nestled among its incredible outdoor gardens.
Take a stroll through the scenic pathways bejewelled with festive lights and enjoy everything the numerous interactive installations and magical displays have to offer.
Where: Hendrie Park, Royal Botanical Gardens, 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
When: Wednesday, November 23rd to Sunday, January 8th, 2022
Cost: $16- $20
Window Wonderland
Toronto’s award-winning urban art walk is returning to the west end. Window Wonderland has taken over the Junction 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.
While you make your way along the urban art trail, you can enjoy a free outdoor performance by CORPUS dance company called “The Alpine Merry Sheep Choir” which will run from December 3rd to December 24th from 2 PM to 4 PM.
When: Until January 1st, 2023
Where: See the full event map
Christmas Glow Toronto
The popular Christmas Glow festival is back, but instead of taking you on a trip to Santa’s village, you’ll be taken on a trip around the world.
The indoor experience will take visitors on an illuminated journey to six different countries. No passport required!
You can also shop in the Merry Maker’s Market, enjoy live entertainment from local performers, indulge in holiday cocktails and delicious international bites, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, and of course, visit Santa!
Where: Toronto Congress Centre, 650 Dixon Road
When: Until December 31st, 2022
Northern Lights TO
Northern Lights is coming to the city for the first time ever, and it’s described as an “an unparalleled winter wonderland.”
It will have over 80,000 square feet of breathtaking installations and uniquely immersive experiences.
Some of the features include art installations, dazzling décor, a 25-foot illuminated Christmas tree, fun-for-all-ages games and activities, a holiday vendor market, and much more.
When: December 1st to January 8th, 2022
Where: Grand Bizarre at Exhibition Place
Twinkle After Dark
The creators of the popular illuminated trail Pumpkins After Dark have opened a magical holiday experience this year called Twinkle After Dark.
Tens of thousands of lights illuminate this sprawling walk-through experience in a picturesque country setting just outside of Toronto.
You’ll get to wander through an enchanting immersive world featuring historic buildings, holiday projections, costumed actors, festive music, and even a main street.
Where: Country Heritage Park, 8560 Tremaine Road, Milton
When: Until December 24th, 2022
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Christmas Land at Niemi Family Farm
All aboard the Polar Express! Niemi Family Farm’s Christmas Land is back and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Santa’s hometown.
You’ll get to climb aboard the Polar Express and travel around the magical village, saying hello to the farm animals along the way.
You can warm up by the bonfire and treat yourself to some tasty s’mores, then visit the on-site Christmas market where you can pick up all kinds of goodies to take home.
Sponsored Pick: ENJOY A STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS IN PICKERING
Kick the festive season off right with A Storybook Christmas presented by Pickering Museum Village! You’ll be able to enjoy an immersive walking tour where you can follow along in your very own keepsake storybook as you get a festive glimpse of the village like you’ve never experienced before.
In addition, you’ll also be treated to music, crafts, trivia, treats, Santa Claus visits, and even a Polar Bear Plushie Workshop and become an expert toy maker.
When: Saturday December 3th and Sunday December 4th
Where: 2365 6th Concession Road, Greenwood
Cost: $40 per group, $25 per person for Polar Plushie Workshop
When: Until December 22nd, 2022 (Fridays and Saturdays)
Where: Niemi Family Farm, 18463 ON-48, Mount Albert
York-Durham Heritage Railway Holiday Train Rides
You can board one of the many holiday train rides near Toronto this December.
York-Durham Heritage Railway has filled its schedule with all kinds of Christmas-themed train rides and passengers of all ages are in for a treat.
Some of the onboard events include North Pole Light UP Express, Santa Express, Pancake Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Murder at the Christmas Station, and Victorian Christmas Tea.
When: Until December 24th, 2022 (select dates)
Where: 19 Railway Street, Uxbridge
Canadian Tire Christmas Trail
The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail has returned the third year in a row and you’ll see Santa’s village come to life from the warmth of your car.
This year, the experience is bigger and more exciting than ever, with new interactive displays to see as you make your way along the trail.
When: Until December 23rd, 2022
Where: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy
The Jameson Christmas Tree Lot
It’s time to pick out trees and deck them out for the holidays, and this year, you don’t have to leave downtown Toronto to get yours.
While you pick out your tree, you’ll be surrounded by holiday décor galore for all the photo opportunities you can handle, with live music and holiday cocktails to complete the festive vibes.
When: December 1st to December 4th, 2022
Where: stackt market – 28 Bathurst Street
Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest
The season of holiday cheer has begun at Canada’s Wonderland for its annual WinterFest, a celebration of everything magical about this time of year. Get ready to lace up your skates, wander along a starlit trail, and feel festive AF.
The park has transformed into a cheerful holiday dream world with ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, live entertainment, carolers, a nightly tree-lighting ceremony, an artisan market, festive food offerings, and, of course, millions of twinkling lights.
When: Select nights until December 31st, 2022
Where: Canada’s Wonderland
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Casa Loma’s Christmas at the Castle
Step into a world of holiday magic at Toronto’s Casa Loma this joyous season! Yes, the beloved Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights is a day-and-night experience that takes place at our beloved castle during the holidays.
From December 1st to January 8th, explore the castle grounds as it transforms into the ultimate winter wonderland, surrounded by holiday decor in every corner and draped in dazzling lights.
Where: 1 Austin Terrace
When: December 1st, 2022 to January 8th, 2023
Sponsored Pick: EXPERIENCE THE ATELIER OF DREAMS DURING DIOR’S HOLIDAY POP UP AT HOLT RENFREW YORKDALE
Delight in the magic of the season while finding the perfect gift for your loved ones at Dior’s holiday pop-up. Located at Holt Renfrew Yorkdale, you’ll be able to discover Dior’s exclusive holiday gift selections while enjoying Dior’s exclusive services and offers.
From bottle or box customization where on-site artists will paint in the signature Dior gold and blue, to the mini dried holiday bouquets added onto holiday purchases, and the hot cocoa adorned with the Dior logo on top, this gift shopping experience is on a whole new level.
Where: Holt Renfrew Yorkdale
When: Now until December 26th, 2022
The Thirsty Elf
Back for the joyous season is Toronto’s most magical holiday pop-up at the Fairmont Royal York – The Thirsty Elf festive bar. Celebrate the holidays this season with an exciting tree-lighting and over-the-top cocktails.
When: Until December 17th, 2022
Where: Fairmont Royal York, 1OO Front Street West
Netflix Canada Holiday House
Netflix Canada is bringing the holiday spirit to Toronto. If you haven’t already felt it then you will very soon at the inaugural Netflix Canada Holiday House coming to the city this month.
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 1st to December 4th, 2022
Where: Campbell House Museum, 160 Queen Street West
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Outdoor Events & Activities
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, 2022, Starting at 6:00 PM
Where: Kensington Market
Skating at Toronto’s outdoor rinks
The season of outdoor skating has begun! 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.
Where: See Toronto’s best outdoor rinks here
Cavalcade of Lights
The beloved event celebrates Toronto’s holiday season until well after Christmas, wrapping up on January 7th.
This year’s festivities are inspired by international lantern, fire, and light festivals. It transforms City Hall into a spectacular wonderland every night.
When: Until January 7th, 2023
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
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Live Music & Dance
Mariah Carey — Merry Christmas To All!
Drop everything! The Queen of high notes is coming to Canada for a very special Christmas concert this December.
Mariah Carey will be performing her holiday classics in Toronto as part of a two-day Christmas show. Get ready to belt “All I Want For Christmas” at the top of your lungs!
When: December 9th, 2022 & December 11th, 2022
Where: Scotiabank Arena
Merry Merry Music
This festive concert series takes place throughout the holiday season at the Eaton Centre, with magical “indoor snowfall” that’s unlike anything else in the city.
From Thursday to Sunday, visitors will be treated to “musical performances from a diverse line-up of Canadian artists,” the description says.
The concert series will run four times weekly until December 24th, so you’ll have many chances to enjoy the show while you shop.
Where: CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Level 1 – Centre Court (near MAC)
When: Until December 24th, 2022 (four days a week)
The Nutcracker Ballet
The National Ballet of Canada has one of the finest versions of Marius Petipa’s beloved classic The Nutcracker, and it is a holiday season tradition that our city looks forward to every year.
There’s no better way to make the holiday season feel complete in Toronto than this enchanting show.
Where: 145 Queen Street West
When: December 10th to December 31st, 2022
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New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Dwayne Gretzky’s New Years’ Eve
Toronto’s favourite nostalgic band is bringing back its popular in-person New Year’s show for the first time in two years.
Get ready to ring in 2023 by “singing and dancing to many of the greatest hits of all time.” There’s also a VIP package with a dedicated bar and amazing views of the stage.
When: December 31st, 2022
Where: History
Gimme Gimme Disco
Also taking place this New Year’s is a groovy show by Gimme Gimme Disco, a DJ based dance party that plays all your favorite ABBA hits, plus plenty of other disco hits from the 70s and 80s.
Throw on your finest bell bottoms and dancing shoes because we’re boogying into the new year!
When: December 31st, 2022
Where: The Danforth Music Hall
New Year’s Eve at The ROM
New Year’s at the museum? Sign us up! This month’s ROM After Dark will be an art-filled 19+ party at the museum.
ROM After Dark is a monthly event filled with “experiential energy, featuring curated music, visual arts, pop-up performances, and distinctive food and drink, designed for adults looking for a fun, art-driven night out.”
When: December 31st, 2022
Where: The Royal Ontario Museum
City of Toronto New Year’s Eve Celebration
It’s official! After two years of hybrid celebrations, Toronto’s New Year’s Eve party will return this year to ring in 2023.
This New Year’s Eve bash is held at Nathan Phillips Square, with live DJ skating, musical performances, live entertainment, and (hopefully) a dazzling fireworks show at midnight.
When: December 31st, 2022
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
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More Events!
Mobile Sweat at Festival of Cool
A new music and arts venue is popping up in the city this December, but it’s the last place you’d imagine to see a live show.
Mobile Sweat is a nomadic wood-fired sauna that will be coming to Toronto during Harbourfront Centre’s annual Festival of Cool.
Put on by Art Spin, the outdoor sauna is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to pack a towel and swimsuit, and prepare to experience art while you get your sweat on.
Where: Harbourfront Centre North East Pavillion, 219 Queens Quay West
When: December 8th to 18th, 2022, 4 PM to 10 PM
One Of A Kind Show
The One Of A Kind show is back in Toronto and if you’re looking to support local this year, there’s no better place to start.
From November 24th to December 4th, the OOAK show will take over the Enercare Centre and more than 600 artisans from all over Canada will showcase their extensive selection of goods.
You can expect to find a wide range of craft goods including houseware items, clothing, art pieces, sweet treats, jewelry and so much more.
When: Until December 4th, 2022
Where: 100 Princes’ Blvd – Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place
Now that have the best things to do in Toronto this December, we hope it’s every bit as magical as you want it to be!
