Best Holiday Lighting Displays Around Toronto That You Must Visit At Least Once
So, you’re planning a trip to Toronto during the holiday season? That’s fantastic! There’s nothing quite like experiencing the city’s winter wonderland. One of the highlights is checking out the best holiday lighting displays in Toronto and surrounding areas. From dazzling light shows to festive decorations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive in and discover the most magical spots to see this year!
Must-See Christmas Lighting Displays Around Toronto This 2024
Illumi (Opening October 3)
Illumi is a must-see holiday light festival that transforms Toronto’s Botanical Gardens into a magical winter wonderland. With millions of lights illuminating the park, visitors can wander through enchanting displays, enjoy festive entertainment, and even take a ride on a light-up train. It’s a truly immersive experience that’s perfect for families and friends of all ages.
- Admissions: To purchase tickets, click here
- https://toronto.illumi.com
- 7174 Derry Crest Dr. Mississauga, ON
Bloor-Yorkville (November 25 – December 31)
Bloor-Yorkville is a vibrant neighborhood in Toronto known for its upscale shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. During the holiday season, this area transforms into a winter wonderland with stunning light displays. From the iconic Christmas tree in Yorkville Park to the twinkling lights adorning the chic boutiques, there’s something magical to discover around every corner.
- Admission: Free
- https://www.bloor-yorkville.com/holiday_magic/holiday_lights
- Village of Yorkville Park, 115 Cumberland Street, Toronto
The Christmas Market at the Distillery District (Opening November 14)
The Christmas Market at the Distillery District is a beloved holiday tradition in Toronto. This historic neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland with charming wooden huts filled with unique gifts, delicious treats, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy live music, sip on mulled wine, and stroll through the cobblestone streets, enjoying the magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and experience the season’s joy.
- Admission: Admission is free of charge on weekdays until Friday at 6 pm. Children 5 years of age and under are free but do require a ticket for entry on weekends.
- https://www.tochristmasmarket.com
- 55 Mill St, Toronto
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland (November 16 – January 4)
WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland is a magical winter wonderland that transforms the popular amusement park into a festive destination. This event features ice skating on Snowflake Lake, more than a dozen live shows and holiday entertainment, exciting rides, millions of spectacular lights, and hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees throughout the park, including two 50-foot Christmas trees on International Street. It’s a truly immersive holiday experience for the whole family.
- Admission: Please visit their website.
- https://www.canadaswonderland.com/events/winterfest
- 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan
- (905) 832-8131
Winter Festival of Lights at Niagara Falls (November 16 – January 5)
The most enchanting of Niagara Falls attractions, the annual Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival. Experience the spectacular displays with millions of lights and larger than life displays across the tourism districts.
- Admission: Free
- https://wfol.com
- 6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls
- wfol@niagarafallstourism.com
The Friday Harbour Christmas Market (Typically Runs from November to December)
The Friday Harbour Christmas Market is a relatively new addition to Toronto’s holiday festivities, but it has quickly become a popular destination. Located on the waterfront, this market offers a charming and festive atmosphere with various vendors selling unique gifts, delicious food, and warm beverages.
Visitors can enjoy live music, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and admire the stunning views of Lake Ontario. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful holiday experience.
- Admission: Free
- https://www.fridayharbour.com
- Friday Harbour Resort, 3999 Friday Dr, Innisfil
- info@fridayharbour.com
Holiday Lights at Casa Loma (Typically Runs from December to January)
Casa Loma is a historic castle-like mansion located in Toronto. During the holiday season, this grand estate is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical and festive atmosphere. Visitors can explore the castle’s elegant rooms, enjoy holiday-themed entertainment, and even take a carriage ride through the illuminated gardens. It’s a truly enchanting experience that captures the spirit of the season.
- Admission: To purchase tickets, please click here
- https://casaloma.ca/project/holiday-lights-tour-2
- 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
- (416) 923-1171
- info@casaloma.caÂ
Cavalcade of Lights (Typically Runs from December to January)
The Cavalcade of Lights is a beloved annual tradition in Toronto that kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling display of lights and festive entertainment. This magical event takes place at Nathan Phillips Square, transforming the city center into a winter wonderland. With its iconic Christmas tree, stunning light installations, and lively atmosphere, the Cavalcade of Lights is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
- Admission: Free
- https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/cavalcade-of-lights
- Nathan Philips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village (Typically Runs from December to January)
Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village is a magical winter wonderland that transforms this historic site into a dazzling display of lights. With over one million lights illuminating the buildings, trees, and fences, visitors can enjoy a picturesque stroll through this enchanting setting. Perfect for families, couples, and friends alike, Alight at Night offers a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
- Admission: To purchase tickets, please click here.
- https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/event/alight-at-night
- Upper Canada Village (13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, Ontario K0C 1X0 Canada)
Holiday Nights of Lights (Typically Runs from December to January)
Holiday Nights of Lights is a unique drive-through light display featuring over 1.5 million LED lights synchronized to popular holiday tunes. The lights dance to the rhythm of the tunes, adding an extra touch of enchantment to the event. While you’re there, why not pay a visit to Santa himself or channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at some axe throwing? It’s all part of the fun and adds an extra dose of holiday cheer.
- Admission: Please visit their website.
- https://nightsoflights.ca/holidays.htmlÂ
- 500 Progress Ave. Scarborough
- info@nightsoflights.caÂ
Winter Glow at Yonge-Dundas Square (December 14 – 23)
Winter Glow at Yonge-Dundas Square is a vibrant holiday celebration that transforms this popular public space into a dazzling winter wonderland. With its festive lights, enchanting decorations, and lively atmosphere, Winter Glow offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. As a central hub for community events, Yonge-Dundas Square provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy the holiday season.
Winter Glow is a great way to spend an evening out with friends, part of a date night, a spot for family fun, or a holiday shopping break.
- Admission: Free
- https://www.ydsquare.ca/winterglow
- 1 Dundas Street East Toronto
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