What To See and Do in Toronto During the Holidays
A bustling, cheerful, brightly light city, Toronto is our home for the holidays (and all other times of the year) and we couldn’t be happier.
Future Musée homeowners will be situated at one of the city’s most popular locations, Bathurst and Adelaide, and will be able to take full advantage of every festive event in downtown Toronto. Avoid the mall crowd and do your holiday shopping at the unique collection of boutiques on Queen West, take in the romantic scenery at St.Lawrence Market, or spend Saturday night at the Harbourfront Centre skating to live music. The only thing Toronto can’t provide is more time to enjoy all of these seasonal things.
Experience
Mark the official start of the holiday season at the 49th annual Cavalcade of Lights. Head over to Nathan Phillips Square on November 28 at dusk and watch City Hall light up. Performances by some of Canada’s top musical talent, a spectacular fireworks show and skating parties are all on the agenda.
Shop
The Union Station Holiday Market is returning for its second year starting on Monday, November 30. Settling in the Sir John A. Macdonald Plaza until December 20, the market will include a 25-foot Christmas tree, festive drinks and more than 30 vendors.
The Toronto Christmas Market is a city favourite, and for good reason. This year there is a $5 entrance fee on Saturdays and Sundays, but proceeds will go toward several charities the market supports, and will be reinvested in the market. Located in the charming Distillery District, this annual event has everything from singing elves to beer gardens. Indulge in a rich cup of hot cocoa and decadent snacks as you shop for gifts and décor.
Watch
See a timeless tale come to life at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. The National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker is an utter joy to experience for casual theatregoers and ballet connoisseurs alike. The show runs from December 12 to January 3, but buy tickets now, shows sell out very quickly.
Move
Skate from now until April at the Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel Rink free of charge. Top local and international DJs will be performing every Saturday night from December 19 – February 20 to keep you moving and prevent you from getting cold.