Things to do in Toronto during Christmas

Toronto is a vibrant city that is full of life, and it is even more beautiful during the Christmas season. From festive markets and Christmas lights to ice skating and winter activities, there is plenty to do in Toronto during the Christmas season and this guide will help you plan your trip.

Festive Christmas Markets

Toronto is known for its many festive Christmas markets, which are full of food, drinks, and holiday decorations. The most popular markets include the Toronto Christmas Market in the historic Distillery District, the St. Lawrence Market, the Scarborough Christmas Market, and the Cabbagetown Holiday Market. All of these markets are full of unique decorations, festive foods, and holiday cheer.

Christmas Lights

Toronto is illuminated by beautiful Christmas lights during the holiday season, and it is a great way to get into the spirit of Christmas. Many of the city’s streets are lined with Christmas trees, icicle lights, and snowflakes. The most popular places to see the Christmas lights are Nathan Philips Square, the Distillery District, and Yonge-Dundas Square.

Ice Skating

One of the most popular winter activities in Toronto is ice skating, and there are many rinks throughout the city. The most popular rinks are Nathan Philips Square, Harbourfront Centre, and the Bentway. If you are looking for a more unique ice skating experience, you can try your hand at the Bentway Skate Trail, which is a 7.5 kilometer ice skating trail.

Winter Activities

In addition to ice skating, there are many other winter activities to enjoy in Toronto during the Christmas season. You can go on a winter walking tour, explore snowshoeing trails, or take a winter festival tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try snow tubing, snowmobiling, and winter camping.

Festive Foods

Toronto is full of festive foods during the holiday season. From holiday-inspired dishes to hot chocolate and mulled wine, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular festive foods include hot apple cider, gingerbread cookies, eggnog, spiced nuts, and roasted chestnuts.

Additional Tips

When visiting Toronto during the Christmas season, you should bring warm clothes and a good pair of winter boots to stay warm. It is also a good idea to bring a travel adapter if you’re travelling from outside of Canada, as Toronto uses different plugs than most other countries. Lastly, it is important to be mindful of the local laws and regulations, as Toronto has strict laws regarding public drinking and noise.

Conclusion

Toronto is a beautiful city during the Christmas season, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. From festive markets and Christmas lights to ice skating and winter activities, there is plenty to do in Toronto during the Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for a unique winter experience or just want to take in the festive atmosphere, Toronto is the perfect place to visit during the holidays.

An Insider’s Guide to Things to Do in Toronto During Christmas

Toronto is Canada’s most populous city and has something for everyone. From its attractions to local history to dining spots, Toronto never sleeps. The city rolls out the red carpet during Christmas, with music, tunnel walks, and festive lights. Tourists come from far and wide to experience the spirit of Christmas in Toronto. In this guide, I will share with you some fantastic things to do in Toronto during Christmas to make your holiday merrier.

Local Attractions

Toronto is home to some of Ontario’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, and they are all the more special during Christmas. Here are some places you must visit during your stay in Toronto:

The Eaton Centre:

The Eaton Center is a mega-shopping mall and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Toronto. During Christmas, the shopping mall is decked out with Christmas trees, garlands, and strings of lights. You should visit the mall to check out the beautiful Christmas display, indulge in shopping, or take photographs with Santa.

Casa Loma:

Casa Loma, located on Austin Terrace, is a gem of a castle that has been transformed into a museum. The castle is a must-visit location during Christmas. Visitors can experience the grandeur of Christmas starting from November 19th, where the castle hallways are decked out with Christmas trees, decorations, and lights.

Nathan Phillips Square:

Nathan Phillips Square, located in downtown Toronto, is where you’ll find the famous Toronto sign. The sign is a popular tourist attraction and is fabricated with decorations in the form of wreaths, garlands, and lights during Christmas-time. You should take the opportunity to indulge in a bit of skating on the ice rink here- the glittering lights against the night sky create a magical atmosphere.

Dining Spots

While you’re visiting Toronto, don’t miss out on the local tastes. Here are some of our favorite dining spots during the Christmas period:

The Banknote:

The Banknote is in the old Stock Exchange building in downtown Toronto and serves excellent, traditional cuisine. The ambiance here is creative with a Christmas spirit, and the dishes offered are diverse.

One Restaurant:

One Restaurant located in the chic Hazelton Hotel should be your go-to place for Christmas dining. The creative and delicious menu is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The Christmas-themed ambiance of the place is impeccable.

Old Mill Toronto:

If you’re up for a classic, extravagant Christmas feast, then Old Mill Toronto will be perfect for you. From the lavish buffet area to the main course dishes, you will feel no less than royalty consuming these delicacies among the elegant Christmas displays.

Cultural Experiences

Toronto is also known for its cultural experiences and is no different during Christmas. Here are some cultural experiences you must include in your itinerary:

The Nutcracker Ballet:

The Nutcracker ballet is a form of timeless entertainment, and the National ballet in Toronto hosts performance shows every year. This ballet show is both magical and a gateway to the romantic and whimsical era.

Christmas Market:

For an authentic North-European Christmas experience, head out to the Toronto Christmas market in Toronto’s Distillery District. The Christmas market comes to life with wooden huts, cultural performances, and a festive ambiance, sure to delight the senses.

Cavalcade of Lights:

The Cavalcade of Lights is a festivity held annually in Toronto. The event marks the earliest of Toronto’s Christmas events, and visitors come from all around the world to be a part of this. The event features the lighting up of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, live musical performances, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Local History

If you’re up for it, learn about Toronto’s history during your trip. These museums are worth the visit:

The Royal Ontario Museum:

The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum and holds various art, history, and science exhibits. Visiting the ROM will take you on an informative journey, as the exhibits offer great insight into the Canadian heritage.

Casa Loma:

Casa Loma – again? Yes! During Christmas, the castle transforms into an informative museum that shares Casa Loma’s possible story. Guests can learn about the people living in the castle back then and feel like they are living in the times themselves.

Bata Shoe Museum:

The Bata Shoe Museum offers an educational experience on footwear from various cultures. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of footwear technology across the ages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the popular sites and attractions, Toronto is also home to some hidden gems and unusual activities that are off the beaten path, below are some of the activities you might want to carve out time for:

Visit the Toronto Island:

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands. The island has various activities like hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The island is especially beautiful during wintertime and is a great spot for an afternoon walk to enjoy the picturesque views. You can also indulge in Ice Skating by the waterfront.

Go on a light festival crawl:

Toronto offers various light festivals throughout the Christmas period, and if you are a fan of light displays, you will indeed want to check out all the available light events. Start with the Cavalcade of Lights for the official start of Christmas in Toronto, and gradually explore other light festivals throughout the city.

Ripley’s Aquarium:

If you or your kids are enthusiastic about marine life, then head out to Ripley’s Aquarium. The aquarium offers an immersive experience where visitors can get up close and personal with marine creatures. The walk-through-tunnel amidst sea creatures is an experience worth having!

Conclusion

Toronto during Christmas is a beautiful, merry, and unforgettable experience. From the beautiful lights to the Christmas markets and delectable feasts, there are so many activities to choose from. With this guide, you can explore Toronto in all its glory and have a magical experience.