Five Fantastic Christmastime Activities in Toronto that You Can’t Miss

Charming Christmas display featuring a toy train, festive trees, and snowflakes.

A Christmas in Toronto is an experience you’ll never forget. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is also home to some of the country’s most iconic Christmastime activities and performances. With its rich multicultural makeup, Christmas in Toronto brings together festive traditions from around the globe, offering abundant opportunities to enjoy art, shopping, and festive dining. Here is the updated list of the most enjoyable ones.

The Original Toronto Santa Claus Parade

Let’s begin with a timeless tradition. The festive season in Toronto officially kicks off with the Original Toronto Santa Claus Parade. It is a century-old event that has been a key part of the city’s holiday celebrations since 1905. This cherished parade features over 20 floats sponsored by local businesses and organizations, ten marching bands, and, of course, a grand appearance from Santa himself to wrap up the event.

santa, parade, christmas

The parade lasts around 2.5 hours as it winds its way through downtown Toronto, with hundreds of participants reflecting the city’s diversity. Notable guests include local media personalities, the mayor, and an oddly large number of clowns.

The walking mailboxes collecting letters for Santa tends to be the kids’ highlight of the evening. There is nothing like sending a letter to Santa and then waiting for the gifts under the tree. If you’re seeking a heartwarming, family-friendly Christmas experience in Toronto, don’t miss this parade.

The Nutcracker

For many years, generations of Canadian children have embraced the tradition of attending The National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker.

Choreographed by James Kudelka, the company’s former Resident Choreographer, this production brings fresh and imaginative interpretations to Marius Petipa’s timeless classic.

The performance will run from December 6 to 31, 2024, offering both matinée and evening showings.

Additionally, a Nutcracker Story Time is held 45 minutes before each performance at the Four Seasons Centre. This pre-show session is designed to introduce children to the story. It helps them become familiar with it before the ballet begins.

Casa Loma

Christmas at Toronto’s Casa Loma is truly magical. Visitors are greeted by a stunning 40-foot tree in the Great Hall. They can enjoy festive activities like sing-alongs with carolers, magic shows, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, treat decorating, and a dazzling light display in the gardens. Unlike other areas in the city, Casa Loma fully immerses guests in holiday cheer with elaborate decorations, giant teddy bears and animatronics,.. The castle offers two main holiday events: Christmas at the Castle and and Casa Loma Holiday Lights. The former enhances the usual tour with festive decor and performances. The latter is an outdoor light display in the gardens after the castle closes.

Built in the 1910s in Gothic revival style, Casa Loma has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. The entry ticket, though seemingly expensive, offers great value. It will give you a wealth of activities, including access to an 800ft tunnel system that leads visitors through a festive light-filled passage to meet Santa Claus.

Christmastime Activities at The Distillery Winter Village

For a European-style Christmas market experience, head to the Distillery District in downtown Toronto. It is home to the Distillery Winter Village (formerly the Toronto Christmas Market). This charming event offers a taste of old-world holiday magic. Festive lights, family-friendly entertainment, delicious food, and local handcrafted goods are part of the deal. The 2024 highlight is a stunning 56-foot Silver Fir tree, the tallest ever at the market.

People on the Street

Running from November 13 to New Year’s Eve, the Winter Village is one of Toronto’s longest-standing holiday traditions. Tickets are required on weekends and from December 18-31 after 4:00 pm, while entry is free at other times. The market is closed on Christmas Day. With its cobblestone streets and Victorian-era buildings, the Distillery District offers a cozy escape from the surrounding modern cityscape. It is especially enchanting around the glimmering Christmas tree, sponsored this year by Dior.

Nathan Phillips Square

A standout feature of the holiday season in Downtown Toronto is the skating rink at Nathan Phillips Square. It offers a scenic view of Toronto City Hall and the iconic TORONTO sign, with a fun dragon addition this year. The best part? The rink is free to use, as long as you bring your own skates. If you don’t have your own, rentals are available for $15 per adult, making it a relatively affordable outing by downtown standards.

For a completely free experience, you can also check out the Cavalcade of Lights behind the rink, a small display featuring twinkling arches and light installations. While it’s primarily a photo op, it’s undeniably a charming spot.

Couple embraces in winter attire overlooking ice rink in festive Toronto setting.

Toronto during Christmas is a magical blend of festive cheer and multicultural traditions. As Canada’s largest city, it offers a wide variety of Christmastime activities and performances that celebrate the holiday season. From dazzling light displays and Christmas markets to international holiday traditions, the city provides something for everyone. With plenty of options to suit all tastes, it’s easy to enjoy a stress-free holiday season, filled with joy and relaxation. This article highlights some of the best seasonal activities and events that make Toronto the ultimate holiday destination.

Enjoy Toronto’s Christmastime activities!

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