Top 10 Activities to Enjoy in Toronto This December 2024
December in Toronto is an enchanting time, with the city sparkling with holiday lights, festive markets, and winter events. Whether you’re celebrating the holiday season or simply looking to enjoy the wintery charm of the city, here are the top 10 activities to do in Toronto this December 2024.
1. Toronto Christmas Market
The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is one of the city’s most iconic holiday traditions. Wander through the festive stalls offering handmade gifts, mulled wine, and gourmet treats. With carolers, light displays, and a massive Christmas tree, it’s a magical experience for all.
Dates: Until December 23
Location: Distillery Historic District
2. Cavalcade of Lights
Experience the magic of the holidays with the Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square. This event features stunning light displays, a massive Christmas tree, and skating under the glow of thousands of lights. Live music and fireworks add to the festive atmosphere.
Dates: December weekends
Location: Nathan Phillips Square
3. Skating at Toronto's Outdoor Rinks
Embrace the winter season by lacing up your skates at one of Toronto’s outdoor rinks. From Nathan Phillips Square to the Bentway Skate Trail, the city offers several rinks with picturesque settings. Many also have skate rentals available.
Dates: December through February
Locations: Nathan Phillips Square, The Bentway, and more
4. Holiday Magic at Casa Loma
Casa Loma is transformed into a winter wonderland every December, with twinkling lights, holiday decorations, and festive performances. You can explore the beautifully decorated castle, take in live shows, and visit Santa’s Workshop for a magical holiday experience.
Dates: December 1 - Early January
Location: Casa Loma
5. WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Canada’s Wonderland’s WinterFest offers an immersive holiday experience with spectacular light displays, live shows, and holiday-themed attractions. Sip hot chocolate while you stroll through the park, visit Santa, or skate at Snow Flake Lake.
Dates: Until December 31
Location: Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan
6. Toronto Light Festival at the Distillery District
Once the Christmas Market wraps up, the Distillery District transforms into the Toronto Light Festival, a dazzling display of light installations by artists from around the world. The festival turns the historic area into an illuminated outdoor art gallery, offering a mesmerizing winter experience.
Dates: Late December - March
Location: Distillery Historic District
7. Aurora Winter Festival
Aurora Winter Festival is a magical holiday event featuring light installations, amusement rides, and holiday-themed markets. You can explore mystical worlds of light, meet Santa, and enjoy winter-themed entertainment, making it perfect for families and anyone looking for some holiday cheer.
Dates: Early December - Early January
Location: Ontario Place
8. Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village
Step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village. The historic village is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with traditional Christmas activities, candlelit tours, and the chance to meet Father Christmas.
Dates: Throughout December
Location: Black Creek Pioneer Village
9. New Year’s Eve at Nathan Phillips Square
Ring in 2025 at Nathan Phillips Square with Toronto’s official New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy live performances, food trucks, and a massive fireworks display as you count down to midnight with thousands of other Torontonians.
Date: December 31
Location: Nathan Phillips Square
10. Catch a Winter Performance or Concert
December is also a great month for indoor cultural experiences. You can enjoy the National Ballet of Canada’s production of *The Nutcracker* or attend a holiday concert by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Both offer an opportunity to enjoy the arts while staying warm indoors.
Dates: Throughout December
Locations: Four Seasons Centre, Roy Thomson Hall
Whether you're ice skating under the stars, shopping at a holiday market, or taking in a winter festival, Toronto offers plenty to keep you busy this December. Bundle up and enjoy the festive spirit of the season!
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