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Toronto’s iconic castle is transforming for Christmas with two festive holiday experiences

Photo via @casalomatoronto on Instagram

Toronto’s Casa Loma is feeling the festive spirit as it prepares to welcome guests for Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights this December.

Starting Dec. 4, 2026 to Jan. 2, 2027, the iconic castle will transform for the holidays, bringing more music, festive movies and a fresh lineup of designer trees.

Designed by Liberty Entertainment Group’s Creative Director Nadia Di Donato, her vision was to recreate a holiday story for this year’s theme.

“The idea was to create a holiday story you can walk right into, with a new surprise at every turn, from the designer trees inside the castle to the beautiful glowing gardens at night,” says Nadia Di Donato, Creative Director, Liberty Entertainment Group.

Now, as for what guests can expect, here’s a breakdown of the two holiday experiences:

Christmas at the Castle

Christmas at the Castle is Casa Loma’s daytime holiday experience. Here, guests wander through its historic rooms decorated for the season. Expect live entertainment and family activities along the way. According to Casa Loma, there are some new additions this year, like community choirs from local schools, churches and music schools who will take the stage in the castle with daily performances throughout the day.

“Guests can also meet roaming mimes and festive mascots; watch the Jambo Brothers return with their spectacular acrobatics; visit Santa’s Workshop; and write letters to the North Pole,” adds the press release.

Also admire the fresh collection of trees that adorn the castle, along with Jane Lockhart’s “A Christmas in Full Bloom,” a traditional red-and-gold tree, which takes center stage in the Great Hall.

On the Mezzanine, there will be a full Harry Potter-themed tree, complete with a life-size Dumbledore watching from the railing. “Desta Ostapyk dresses Sir Henry Pellatt’s bedroom, David Dunkley lines the second-floor hallway with black-and-white top hats, and Cori Halpern celebrates Christmas and Hanukkah in the Serving Room,” shares Casa Loma.

When: Select dates Dec. 4, 2026 to Jan. 2, 2027
Time: Daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Holiday Lights

In the evening is when its gardens glow. Expect twinkling displays, glowing tunnels, and an abundance of photo moments. As you stroll through the castle grounds, you will come across a few friendly faces, such as Fire Guy, who will be performing his tricks. You’ll also get the chance to wander through Whoville and Scrooge’s house — it doesn’t get more Christmas than that.

“New this year, classic holiday shorts like Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman will play outdoors in front of the pavilion, with inflatable seating to keep everyone cozy,” adds Casa Loma. “Between all the lights and movie fun, guests can stop by the outdoor market for maple syrup and popcorn, plus a gift shop, making it the perfect festive stop for the whole family.”

When: Friday to Sunday on Dec. 4 to 6 and Dec. 11 to 13, then nightly from Dec. 18 through Jan. 2.
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“This year, we wanted the castle to feel like a place where the whole community can come together for the holidays,” says Nick Di Donato, President & CEO, Liberty Entertainment Group. “From local choirs singing in the castle to movies outside of the pavilion, there is something here for every generation to enjoy.”

Tickets

As for pricing, it varies. Christmas at the Castle admission is $45 per person, plus fees, and so is Holiday Lights. If you’d like to experience both on the same day, you can upgrade your Christmas at the Castle ticket to include Holiday Lights for an additional $25 for dates until Dec. 19, or for $30 until Jan. 2.

VIP packages are available for two and include a gift bag, two food tickets and two drink tickets.

You can check out the event calendar for all the info.