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Top 12 Winter Festivals in Toronto That’ll Uplift Your Holiday Spirit!
- Toronto Christmas Market
- WinterFest at Canada's Wonderland
- Cavalcade of Lights
- Holiday Fair in the Square
- Toronto Light Festival
- Ice Fest in Yorkville
- The Distillery Winter Village
- Casa Loma Winter Light Festival
- Winter Magic at Blue Mountain
- Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
- Winter Stations
- Toronto Winter Brewfest
So it’s that time of year again, and everyone is getting ready for the festivities! If you’re like me, the highlight of the season is the amazing winter festivals that have taken over Toronto.
There’s just something magical about twinkling lights, cozy hot cocoa in cafes, and the infectious joy of holiday cheer. To top it all off, most mountain views with people skiing capture the essence of the Christmas holiday too—which is simply a cherry on top.
Luckily, Toronto’s winter festivals offer something for everyone: Ice skating under the stars, exploring festive Christmas markets, or enjoying dazzling northern light displays. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and let’s get into the holiday spirit with these must-visit events!
Toronto Christmas Market
Media from toxmasmarket
Address: Distillery District
Website: https://www.torontochristmasmarket.com/
Contact Details: +1 416-364-1177
Opening Hours: Daily 12 PM–9 PM, Closed Mondays
Admission prices: Free weekdays, $8 weekends
The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is a holiday wonderland you won’t want to miss. Picture cobblestone streets lined with charming wooden stalls, each one offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious holiday treats.
The atmosphere is magical with the blinding lights, a giant Christmas tree, and the warm aroma of mulled wine in the air.
Live music, carolers, and festive entertainment add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a holiday outing.
You can also enjoy a ride on the vintage carousel or take a stroll to admire the beautiful light displays. The market is a great place to find unique holiday gifts and enjoy seasonal delicacies.
Pro Tip:
Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and take advantage of special weekday discounts on food and merchandise.
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Media from x_tinaaaa
Address: 9580 Jane Street, Vaughan
Website: https://www.canadaswonderland.com/
Contact Details: +1 905-832-8131
Opening Hours: Daily 5 PM–10 PM
Admission prices: Starting at $21.99
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland transforms the amusement park into a sparkling winter paradise. The park is decked out with millions of lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed areas that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Ice-skating on Snowflake Lake, visiting Santa’s Village, and enjoying holiday shows are just a few of the activities you can look forward to.
The park’s famous rides are open for a thrilling winter experience, and you can warm up with festive food and drinks available throughout the park.
From hot chocolate and roasted nuts to holiday-themed meals, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The live entertainment, including carolers and musical performances, adds to the festive atmosphere.
Pro Tip:
Purchase your tickets online in advance to save money and skip the lines at the entrance. Also, dress warmly as the park can get quite chilly in the evening.
Cavalcade of Lights
Media from mr._tade
Address: Nathan Phillips Square
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/cavalcade-of-lights/
Contact Details: +1 416-338-0338
Opening Hours: Annual event, typically late November
Admission prices: Free
Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square is a must-see holiday event that kicks off the festive season in Toronto. The highlight of the event is the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, which is a sight to behold with its thousands of sparkling lights.
The square is transformed into a winter wonderland with light displays, ice skating, and festive music.
Even better, it also features live musical performances and a spectacular fireworks show that lights up the night sky. It’s a great place to gather with friends and family to celebrate the holiday season.
Also, we urge you not to forget to check out the artisan market where you can find unique holiday gifts and delicious treats.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to secure a good spot for the tree lighting and fireworks. Bundle up as it can get quite cold, and consider bringing a thermos of hot chocolate to keep warm.
Holiday Fair in the Square
Media from holidayfairto
Address: Nathan Phillips Square
Website: http://www.fairinthesquare.ca/
Contact Details: +1 416-408-0997
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM–9 PM
Admission prices: Free
Holiday Fair in the Square is a festive blend of holiday market and carnival fun, located at Nathan Phillips Square.
This festival has an array of vendors providing unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food. The atmosphere is vibrant with bright lights, festive decorations, and the sound of holiday music filling the air.
You can enjoy ice skating on the iconic rink, hop on a carnival ride, or warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from one of the many food stalls. There’s also a beer garden for adults to enjoy a festive drink. The fair offers a great mix of holiday cheer and entertainment for all ages.
Pro Tip:
Visit the fair in the evening when the lights are at their best. Don’t miss the chance to take a spin on the Ferris wheel for a great view of the city and the holiday lights.
Toronto Light Festival
Media from tolightfest
Address: Distillery District
Website: https://www.torontolightfest.com/
Contact Details: +1 416-364-1177
Opening Hours: Daily 4 PM–9 PM
Admission prices: Free
The Toronto Light Festival in the Distillery District is a dazzling display of light art installations that transforms the area into a luminous wonderland.
There are also talented artists from around the world who showcase their creative works, making the festival a feast for the eyes. The installations are not only beautiful but also interactive, providing a unique and engaging experience.
Strolling through the festival, you’ll be amazed by the variety of light displays, each one more stunning than the last.
The festival also has plenty of photo opportunities, so make sure to bring your camera. It’s a great way to brighten up the winter nights and enjoy some artistic inspiration.
Pro Tip:
Visit on a weekday evening to avoid the weekend crowds and take your time exploring each installation. Warm up with a visit to one of the Distillery District’s cozy cafes or restaurants after your stroll.
Ice Fest in Yorkville
Media from katrindell
Address: Village of Yorkville Park
Website: https://bloor-yorkville.com/icefest/
Contact Details: +1 416-928-3553
Opening Hours: Annual event, typically mid-February
Admission prices: Free
Ice Fest in Yorkville is where you can see some of the most amazing ice sculptures right in the heart of Toronto.
You can also see carved art pieces that range from majestic animals to intricate designs, making the streets look like a winter art gallery. The live ice carving demonstrations are a real highlight, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how these beautiful sculptures are made.
Plus, the local cafes offer delicious hot beverages, perfect for keeping warm as you wander through the frosty art.
Pro Tip:
Head over in the early evening to see the sculptures lit up beautifully, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Distillery Winter Village
Media from distilleryto
Address: Distillery District
Website: https://www.thedistillerywintervillage.com/
Contact Details: +1 416-364-1177
Opening Hours: Daily 12 PM–9 PM
Admission prices: Free weekdays, $8 weekends
The Distillery Winter Village is the epitome of holiday charm. The historic Distillery District is transformed into a festive village with beautifully decorated stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to gourmet treats.
The ambiance is enhanced by the festive lights and the giant Christmas tree that stands at the heart of the village.
We found ourselves indulging in delicious food and drinks while enjoying live music and performances.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to try the seasonal mulled wine and visit on weekdays to avoid the larger weekend crowds.
Casa Loma Winter Light Festival
Media from casalomatoronto
Address: 1 Austin Terrace
Website: https://www.casaloma.ca/
Contact Details: +1 416-923-1171
Opening Hours: Daily 5 PM–10 PM
Admission prices: Starting at $30
Casa Loma’s Winter Light Festival turns the iconic castle into a glowing winter wonderland. The gardens are adorned with spectacular light displays, and the castle itself is beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Inside, you can enjoy live performances, from carolers to theatrical shows, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Walking through the light tunnel and illuminated gardens feels like entering a fairytale. It’s an enchanting experience that’s perfect for families and couples alike if you bring them with you!
Pro Tip:
Book your tickets early as this event is very popular. Bring your camera to capture the stunning light displays.
Winter Magic at Blue Mountain
Media from wintermagicfestival
Address: 190 Gord Canning Drive, Blue Mountains
Website: https://www.bluemountain.ca/
Contact Details: +1 877-445-0231
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–10 PM
Admission prices: Free
Winter Magic at Blue Mountain is an adventure lover’s paradise. This destination offers a plethora of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating.
The village is bustling with excitement, and the beautiful lights and festive decorations add to the magic of the season.
We enjoyed the variety of restaurants and shops, making it easy to spend the whole day exploring. The evenings are particularly special with light displays and cozy spots to relax.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on the Plunge! Aquatic Centre, where you can enjoy indoor water fun and relax after a day in the snow.
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Media from blooryorkville and torontojazzfest
Address: Bloor-Yorkville
Website: https://bloor-yorkville.com/holiday-magic/
Contact Details: +1 416-928-3553
Opening Hours: 24/7
Admission prices: Free
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic brings a festive glow to one of Toronto’s most upscale neighborhoods.
The area is adorned with beautiful light displays and holiday decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The tree lighting ceremony is a must-see, accompanied by live music and performances.
The high-end shops and boutiques make holiday shopping a pleasure, while the cafes and restaurants offer cozy retreats to enjoy a warm drink or a meal.
Pro Tip:
Visit the Village of Yorkville Park for the best light displays and a peaceful spot to enjoy the holiday ambiance.
Winter Stations
Media from winter.stations
Address: The Beaches
Website: https://www.winterstations.com/
Contact Details: +1 416-752-8277
Opening Hours: Annual event, typically February to March
Admission prices: Free
Winter Stations is an annual outdoor art exhibit that transforms Toronto’s beaches into a vibrant and imaginative display of creativity.
Each year, designers around Ontario create stunning installations using lifeguard stations as their canvas. These art pieces are designed to withstand the elements and are inspired by various themes, making each year unique and exciting.
Exploring the installations along the snowy beach is a refreshing way to enjoy the winter season. It’s a free event that encourages public interaction and appreciation of art in a natural setting.
Pro Tip:
Visit on a sunny winter day for the best photo opportunities and to fully appreciate the contrast between the vibrant installations and the serene beach landscape.
Toronto Winter Brewfest
Media from brewfesttoronto
Address: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Avenue
Website: https://www.brewfest.ca/toronto
Contact Details: +1 647-524-9708
Opening Hours: Annual event, typically late February
Admission prices: Starting at $25
Toronto Winter Brewfest is the perfect event for beer enthusiasts looking to warm up during the cold months.
It’s also held at the historic Evergreen Brick Works and this festival features a wide selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries. You can sample a variety of unique brews, from rich stouts to hoppy IPAs, all in a cozy indoor setting.
In addition to great beer, the festival offers delicious food pairings from local vendors, live music, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a fun outing with friends. It’s a great way to discover new favorites and support local brewers.
Pro Tip:
Get your tickets early as this popular event often sells out. Consider attending on the first day for the freshest selections and fewer crowds.