We’ve got another fantastic weekend coming our way, Toronto! The snow (and temperatures) may be falling, but that’s not stopping our city from having a good time. There are so many exciting things to do in Toronto this weekend, so without further delay, let’s dive in.

Here are 10 of the best events worth checking out around the city this weekend.

Northern Lights TO

Northern Lights has arrived in the city for the first time ever, and it’s described as an “an unparalleled winter wonderland.”

It has 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: Until January 8th, 2022
Where: Grand Bizarre at Exhibition Place

The Welcome Market: ‘Tis The Szn

Nothing says “thoughtful Christmas gifts” like handmade goodies made with love and care. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at The Welcome Market, and then some.

The beloved dog-friendly market is hosting its ‘Tis The Szn holiday market pop-up for the next two weekends at its 511 Queen Street West location and it’s something you don’t want to miss.

Many of the feature vendors include BIPOC, Woman-owned, and Queer businesses. Shop and support over 30 local vendors selling goods like vintage clothing, handmade creations, and curated finds.

When: December 17th & 18th, 2022, 11 AM to 6 PM
Where: 511 Queen Street West

Sponsored Pick: DISCOVER THE WONDER DURING DIOR’S ATELIER OF DREAMS HOLIDAY POP UP

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 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 dreamy gift shopping experience is on a whole new level.

Where: Holt Renfrew Yorkdale
When: Now until December 26, 2022

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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

Sponsored Pick: Bike over to Distillery’s Winter Village & treat yourself to free valet parking by Bike Share

One of the highlights of the holiday season, Distillery District’s Winter Village, is an absolute must- and to help beat the congestion, warm up to winter riding as a hassle-free and quick way to get there with Bike Share Hassle-free! So skip the struggle this time of the year, and bike over with Bike Share!

Until December 31st, Bike Share’s valet service will run from 4 pm to 8 pm Thursdays through Sundays at their Trinity St / Front St E station. You won’t be able to miss it, just look out for the festive holiday wrapping!

Plus you’ll even be able to find more bikes & docking at the valet service, so you can keep your holiday adventures going all day long.

Where: Trinity St / Front St E Station, outside Winter Village entrance
When: 4 pm to 8 pm, Thursdays – Sundays until December 31, 2022

Toronto Gingerbread Festival

When it comes to holiday treats, it doesn’t get more classic than gingerbread, and this year, the Toronto Gingerbread Festival is treating locals to a big dose of deliciousness.

The festival features a life-sized gingerbread display and gigantic installations, filling the streets with excitement and nostalgia.

You can also get a free gingerbread building kit, plus enjoy all kinds of special deals and promos at local shops and restaurants.

When: Until January 11th, 2023
Where: Yonge and St. Clair, Life-sized display in the lobby at 2 St. Clair West

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

Sponsored Pick: Enjoy a festive holiday shopping experience at CF Shopping Centres

With Christmas quickly approaching, Cadillac Fairview (CF) is continuing its holiday magic across its 18 shopping centres so you can enjoy joyful activities that extend into the New Year. Don’t miss the holiday musical performances, festive and picturesque decor, a wondrous indoor snowfall, fun outdoor events, extended holiday shopping hours and much more.

To see a full listing of events in your area, visit CF’s holiday hub

When: Now until January 8, 2023
Where: Cadillac Fairview Shopping Centres across Canada 

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.

When: Until December 31st, 2022
Where: 145 Queen Street West

Holiday Fair in the Square

Holiday Fair in the Square continues this weekend in Toronto and it’s a beloved tradition that’s a fun-filled carnival and festive market all at once.

In addition to the sprawling artisan marketplace with vendors selling hand-crafted items and one-of-a-kind gifts, the event will also have entertainment, tasty bites, carnival rides, and even a festive outdoor bar.

When: Until December 23rd, 2022
Where: Nathan Phillips Square

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.

Until 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: Until January 8th, 2023

There you have it, friends! Ten of the best things to do in Toronto this weekend. Enjoy!