5 of Toronto’s Best Holiday Events You Don’t Want to Miss (2023)
With the holiday season right around the corner, Toronto is about to get all lit up with some amazing festive events. It's like the whole city takes a deep breath and slows down, just like our real estate market does this time of year. It's our chance to chill, have some fun, and really appreciate the little things that make life great.
So, what's happening around town? Think twinkling lights, cozy Christmas markets, and that special kind of magic that only this time of year can bring. These events aren't just fun; they're the heart and soul of our Toronto community. Whether you've been here for ages or you're just thinking about calling Toronto home, these events are the perfect way to feel the city's warm and welcoming vibe. In this blog, we're going to dive into the 12 best holiday events in Toronto. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this enchanting season!
1. Distillery District - Winter Village
The Distillery Historic District has created a Winter Village experience that starts in mid-November and goes to the end of December.
During the winter wonderland season, feel free to enjoy the cobblestone streets adorned with cheer-filled vendor stalls!
This famous seasonal event draws in about 750,000 people each year, so it’s not one you want to miss out on. Purchase a ticket and experience jolly shopping and whimsical dining events, complete with colourful Christmas lights!
2. Stackt Market - Holiday Hills
If you’re looking for a multiple-faceted festive playground, you won’t want to miss the magic of Holiday Hills at the Stackt Market.
From Disco Mistletoe to a 120 foot Tunnel of Lights to a 40 foot long Wish Wall spending holiday hope, Toronto’s Stackt Market is truly stacked with holiday cheer this season.
Whether you’re looking to shop, socialize, play a game of outdoor curling or drink whiskey at a speakeasy, Holiday hills has you covered. Different events run each week/weekend from Nov 17, 2023 to Dec 31, 2023.
3. Nathan Phillips Square - The Cavalcade of Lights
Bundle up, grab your skates on and get ready to be dazzled by the Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Sqaure.
Get excited for the annual lights festival, ushering in the holiday cheer with loads of activities, brilliant light displays, and festive decorations. This includes a towering 55-foot Christmas tree, twinkling with over 300,000 lights and 500 ornaments. This year's theme takes a cue from global light festivals and cultural celebrations, featuring grand displays focused on lights, lanterns, and the warm glow of fire.
From late November to early January, Nathan Phillips Square glitters with it’s famous and fee Cavalcade of Lights event!
4. Casa Loma - Christmas at the Castle
Take your Christmas experience to the next level by celebrating it … in a castle!
Casa Loma is a majestic estate in Toronto that’s plenty impressive in its own right, and it’s even better with holiday cheer. The estate plays host to multiple Christmas events!
Bring the whole family and experience the magic with all sorts of activities and impressive decor that not many other places can match.
Whether you’re coming alone or with a friend or partner, take part in the holiday lights tour and explore the majestic castle, its lights, and the live performances!
5. Toronto’s 119th Annual Santa Clause Parade
If you’re lucky enough to be in Toronto (or have a home there), make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the annual Santa Claus Parade. This one’s for the kids and those who are still kids at heart!
A tradition dating back to 1905, the Santa Claus Parade is an extravagant display of cheery floats marching on to festive band music. There’s reindeer, elves – and of course, the star of the show himself: Santa Claus!
Join the parade at Christie Street and Bloor Street West starting at 12:30 PM on Sunday, November 26, 2023.
