Holiday Magic in Toronto
The holiday season is officially here in Toronto, and the city is buzzing with festive energy! From magical markets to sparkling lights, cozy cocktails, and seasonal performances, the city has so much to offer in terms of festive fun. Here’s my list of holiday events, pop-ups, and seasonal activities happening around Toronto this month.
Holiday Markets & Events
The Distillery Winter Village — November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Toronto’s iconic outdoor Christmas market transforms the Distillery Historic District into a magical winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive food & drinks, artisan vendors, and cozy vibes. I personally love getting a boozy hot chocolate, maybe a warm cheese raclette, hanging out by a fire and strolling along to check out the cute shops!
NORDIC by BarChef — Holiday pop-up through December 28, 2025 at The Well
A winter-inspired cocktail bar/lounge complete with cozy décor, festive drinks, and a chill yet elegant vibe — ideal for a laid-back night out.
Miracle on Bloor — November 14 to December 29, 2025
A playful, festive pop-up cocktail bar decked out in Christmas decor, complete with kitschy holiday vibes and themed drinks. Perfect for a fun night out.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Royal York — Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through January 4, 2026
A refined holiday tradition with tiered teas, savory sandwiches, seasonal desserts, and curated teas, a great way to spend a holiday afternoon. Last year the decorations were over the top!
Tour the Casa Loma grounds and be met with a dazzling light display in the gardens and inside in the famous underground tunnels, adorned for the holidays. Would be excellent as a pre dinner show before a reservation at BlueBlood Steakhouse, which would also be decked out for the holidays!
Holiday Performances
The Nutcracker — December 5–31, 2025 at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
A timeless holiday ballet with Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, magical sets, and enchanting performances. I love seeing this again and again.
Home Alone in Concert — December 4–7, 2025 at Roy Thomson Hall
The classic holiday film comes alive with the full score performed live by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Fun and nostalgic!
Candlelight Concerts Toronto — Various Dates Throughout December
A magical and super romantic live-music experience set entirely by candlelight in some of Toronto’s most beautiful venues.
The christmas concerts they’re offering this year:
Christmas Carols on Strings
Christmas Special ft. The Nutcracker & more
Christmas Classics
Ice Skating in Toronto
Embrace the festive season by gliding across some of Toronto’s most iconic outdoor rinks, a super cute date idea!
The Bentway Skate Trail — December 20, 2025 to February 16, 2026
A unique 220‑metre figure‑eight trail under the Gardiner Expressway, complete with skate rentals, hot drinks, and a cozy urban-winter vibe.Harbourfront Centre Rink (Skate by the Lake) — November 28, 2025 to March 1, 2026
Waterfront skating with beautiful lake and skyline views. Free skate rentals on Saturdays, festive lights, and a vibrant winter-season atmosphere.Nathan Phillips Square Skating Rink — Late November 2025 through mid‑March 2026
Downtown Toronto’s iconic outdoor rink with city-light backdrops.
Toronto is truly sparkling this season, and I hope this list inspires you to get out and enjoy some festive fun!
Happy Holidays xo