Best Things To Do This January 2025

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January doesn’t have to be the month of holiday hangovers and counting the days until spring. Instead, it’s your chance to get out, hit refresh, and make the most of the season. Prefer outdoor adventures, indoor escapes, or just want to shake up the post-holiday blues? Toronto can keep you busy throughout the month. So, grab your warmest mitts, invite your favourite people, and try these best things to do this January 2025. Who said winter had to be boring?

Please note that event details and schedules may change. Before planning, check the official websites or contact event organizers for the most up-to-date information.

Cirque du Soleil – ’Twas the Night Before (Until January 3, 2025)

Kicking off January with Cirque du Soleil’s ’Twas the Night Before? Stunning acrobatics, playful characters, and fresh takes on holiday tunes make this show a must-see.

  • Location: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.cirquedusoleil.com
  • Category: Family-Friendly

Casa Loma Holiday Lights Tour (Until January 4, 2025)

Photo via @casalomatoronto / Instagram 

Start your year by wandering through a castle glowing with holiday lights. Casa Loma’s gardens and tunnels are lit up most magically, and there’s live music, too.

  • Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
  • Admission: Check ticket prices here.
  • Website: www.casaloma.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Family-Friendly, Date

Distillery Winter Village (Until January 5, 2025)

Photo via @alsopavneet / Instagram 

Haven’t been to the Distillery Winter Village yet? Make it a priority before it’s gone. Sip festive drinks, sightsee cobblestone streets, and grab a photo by the famous Christmas tree.

  • Location: Distillery District (55 Mill Street, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Note: Tickets are required Thursday to Sunday after 4:00 PM, daily from December 12 – December 31 after 4:00 PM
  • Website: www.thedistillerywintervillage.com
  • Category: Date, Friends, Fun Outdoor

The Wizard of Oz: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical (Until January 5, 2025)

Photo via @canadianstage and Dahlia Katz / Instagram 

Looking for fun things to do with the kids this January? This quirky twist on The Wizard of Oz is packed with fun songs, silly jokes, and surprises. And it’s entertaining for both kids and adults.

  • Location: The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre (189 Yonge Street, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.canadianstage.com
  • Category: Family-Friendly

Winterfest Toronto (Until January 5, 2025)

January doesn’t have to be ordinary. Head to Harbourfront Centre for Winterfest, where you’ll find a walk-in Christmas tree, merchant market, food trucks, and live music. You’ll also love the selfie stations, fire pits, and more.

  • Location: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
  • Admission: Free 
  • Website: www.winterfesttoronto.com
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Friends, Family-Friendly

ROM for the Holidays (Until January 5, 2025)

Need an indoor activity to kick off January? The ROM has interactive exhibits, hands-on fun, and live shows celebrating art, culture, and nature. Perfect for anyone looking for a laid-back outing.

  • Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.rom.on.ca
  • Category: Family-Friendly, Indoor Fun

The Little Purrr-maid Pantomime (Until January 5, 2025)

Photo via @redsandcastletheatre / Instagram 

Starting the year with some laughs? This playful pantomime offers catchy songs, quirky characters, and plenty of kid-friendly fun. It’s interactive, too, so your little ones might end up part of the show.

  • Location: Red Sandcastle Theatre (922 Queen Street East, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.redsandcastletheatre.com
  • Category: Family-Friendly

Cavalcade of Lights (Until January 7, 2025)

Photo via @culture_to / Instagram 

January isn’t complete without visiting Nathan Phillips Square. Skate under the lights, check out the massive Christmas tree, and enjoy live performances.

  • Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: www.toronto.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Family-Friendly, Date

New Vistas Art Exhibition (Until January 14, 2025)

If you’re into art, kick off January with New Vistas. It highlights fresh talent and bold ideas that’ll leave you inspired. Plus, it’s a great way to support emerging artists.

  • Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Website: www.toronto.ca
  • Category: Art Lovers, Indoor Fun

Tell Me, What’s Real? Art Exhibition (Until January 16, 2025)

This exhibit blends AI and art, exploring gender and storytelling super creatively. It’s visually stunning and conversation-starting.

  • Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery (Ascent Gallery, Level 1, Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
  • Admission: Free 
  • Website: www.toronto.ca 
  • Category: Art Lovers, Indoor Fun

Window Wonderland (Until January 31, 2025)

Need a budget-friendly January activity? Take a stroll through the Junction to see creative window displays and murals. Adding a little augmented reality, you’ll have interactive, Insta-worthy outdoor activity.

  • Location: The Junction neighbourhood
  • Admission: Free 
  • Website: www.torontojunction.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Family-Friendly, Friends

Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Until February 2, 2025)

Union Station’s rink offers free skate rentals, beginner lessons, and even live DJ sessions. Are you a pro or wobbling through your first laps? The atmosphere here delivers fun and good energy.

  • Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Register here
  • Website: www.torontounion.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Friends, Family-Friendly

Winter Skating at The Bentway (Until February 17, 2025)

Photo via @thebentway and @shaneparent / Instagram 

Skating under the Gardiner Expressway is the peak of Toronto winter. The Bentway’s figure-eight trail welcomes skaters of all levels. Also, check out the free rentals (select days) and cool events.

  • Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Website: www.thebentway.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Friends, Family-Friendly

Hangar Skate Returns to YZD! (Until February 17, 2025)

Photo via @yzdtoronto / Instagram 

Looking for a fun skating or winter hangout spot? Hangar Skate offers a massive outdoor rink, live DJ nights, and eye-catching art installations. Entry is free, and skate rentals won’t hurt your wallet either.

  • Location: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
  • Admission: Free. RSVP here.
  • Website: www.yzd.ca
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Friends, Family-Friendly

Little Canada (Throughout the Year)

Photo via @littlecanada / Instagram

Ever wanted to travel around Canada without the “actual travelling?” Little Canada’s miniature recreations let you see iconic landmarks in intricate detail. This indoor attraction takes you coast to coast, offering a creative look at Canada’s natural beauty.

  • Location: 10 Dundas Street East, Toronto
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.little-canada.ca
  • Category: Family-Friendly, Indoor Fun

Wildlife Photographer of the Year at ROM (Until May 4, 2025)

Photo via @romtoronto, Frontier of the Lynx by Igor Metelskiy, Russia / Instagram

Take a break from the cold with stunning photography at the ROM. This exhibit features award-winning shots of animals and nature, all beautifully backlit for an enhanced viewing experience.

  • Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.rom.on.ca
  • Category: Indoor Fun, Art Lovers, Family-Friendly

Toronto Polar Bear Dip (January 1)

Why not start 2025 by jumping into icy waters for a great cause? The Toronto Polar Bear Dip raises funds for the Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre, so you’ll be freezing for good reason.

  • Location: Sunnyside Park Beach (755 Lake Shore Blvd West – Beach area on the waterside by the bathing pavillion)
  • Admission: Register here.
  • Website: www.boostforkids.org
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Friends, Charity

Record Breaker Cold Plunge (January 1)

Up for a bold start to the year? The Record Breaker Cold Plunge gathers a supportive crowd for a chilling dip, all to support youth mental health. Bring a towel, your swimsuit, and your courage.

  • Location: Woodbine Beach, Toronto
  • Admission: Register here
  • Website: www.stayunbounded.com
  • Category: Fun Outdoor, Charity, Friends

Tour of The Bee Shop (January 4)

Learn about honeybees on this fun and hands-on tour. Taste local honey, make a beeswax candle, and even listen to bees using a stethoscope. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for these tiny pollinators.

  • Location: 1340 Bloor St West, Toronto
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.thebeeshop.net
  • Category: Family-Friendly, Educational, Indoor Fun

Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan (January 9–10)

Two comedy legends, one stage. Jerry Seinfeld’s sharp observational humour and Jim Gaffigan’s clever, clean jokes make this a night of non-stop laughs.

  • Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay Street, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 9) or here (Jan 10). 
  • Website: www.scotiabankarena.com
  • Category: Indoor Fun, Friends, Date

The National Franchise Show (January 11–12)

Thinking of starting your own business this year? This show connects you with 165+ franchise opportunities, from big-name brands to rising stars. With expert-led seminars on financing, legal advice, and more, you’ll be ready to take your next big step.

  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.franchiseshowinfo.com
  • Category: Professional, Educational, Indoor Fun

Candle Making Workshop at Artbox (January 12)

Photo via @artboxstudiogallery / Instagram 

Chill vibes and creativity? This workshop lets you craft a custom candle using organic soy wax and your own scent combo. Plus, you get to take home a candle that’s uniquely yours.

  • Location: Artbox Studio Gallery (1226 Kingston Rd, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.artboxstudiogallery.com
  • Category: Indoor Fun, Creative, Friends

Hoppy Cupcake Workshop (January 12)

Cupcakes and craft beer? This fun workshop teaches you buttercream icing basics and beginner piping techniques. You’ll create delicious, Instagram-worthy cupcakes while sipping on craft brews.

  • Location: Black Lab Brewing (818 Eastern Ave. Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.blacklab.beer
  • Category: Creative, Indoor Fun, Friends

Zachariah Porter: The Strip Mall Tease Tour (January 12)

Photo via @zachariahporter / Instagram

Zachariah Porter brings quirky comedy, wigs, and offbeat characters to the stage in this one-of-a-kind show. It’s part stand-up, part theatrical, and all-around hilarious.

  • Location: The Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Ave, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.thedanforth.com 
  • Category: Comedy, Friends, Indoor Fun

Beer and Cheese Flight Night (January 13)

Enjoy gourmet cheese paired with fresh beers at this guided tasting hosted by Good Cheese and Left Field Leslieville. You’ll appreciate how flavour and fun are perfectly combined.

  • Location: Left Field Brewery (36 Wagstaff Drive, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.fanshop.leftfieldbrewery.ca 
  • Category: Foodies, Indoor Fun, Friends

Winter Solstice (January 14–February 2)

Photo via Canadian Stage

This clever comedy of manners involves family drama, political tension, and betrayal, wrapped up in sharp dialogue. Set on Christmas Eve, it’s entertaining with plenty to unpack, thanks to a stellar cast.

  • Location: Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley Street, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.canadianstage.com
  •  Category: Theatre, Indoor Fun, Culture Lovers

Dinner with the Duchess (January 14–February 2)

What happens when fame’s spotlight gets too bright? This psychological thriller follows a celebrated violinist in her final interview as hidden truths come to light. Expect passion, secrets, and a lot to think about.

  • Location: Studio Theatre (345 Carlaw Avenue, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.crowstheatre.co
  • Category: Theatre, Indoor Fun, Culture Lovers

Bordeaux’s Dazzling 2022s (January 17)

How about wine this month? Sample 80+ Bordeaux wines at Liberty Grand, chat with winery reps and find your new favourites.

  • Location: Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex (25 British Columbia Rd., Exhibition Place, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.lcbo.com
  • Category: Foodies, Indoor Fun, Date

CSC Fancon: Where Worlds Collide (January 18–19)

For pop culture lovers, this event is their dream weekend. You’ll find K-pop, cosplay, gaming, and collectibles. Highlights include rare finds, cosplay competitions, and even a live MICO concert.

  • Location: The International Centre (6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.csceventhq.com
  • Category: Friends, Family-Friendly, Creative

Interior Design Show 2025 (January 23–26)

Toronto’s top design show is back. It’s the ideal spot for creative ideas and trends in interior design. Looking for inspo or just love design? This event must be on your bucket list.

  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.interiordesignshow.com
  • Category: Creative, Professional, Indoor Fun

DesignTO 2025 (January 24–February 2)

Photo via @designtofestival / Instagram 

This year, this city-wide design festival features over 100 events and exhibits, celebrating 15 years of innovation. Many are free and outdoors, making them easily enjoyed by everyone.

  • Location: Multiple venues
  • Admission: Check ticket prices here
  • Website: www.designto.org
  • Category: Creative, Fun Outdoor, Art Lovers

The Wedding Show 2025 (January 26)

Photo via @theweddingshow.ca / Instagram 

Planning to tie the knot? This show has everything you need—vendors, cake tastings, photo booths, and more. It’s a one-stop shop for planning your dream day.

  • Location: Hyatt Regency Toronto (370 King St W Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here
  • Website: www.theweddingshow.ca
  • Category: Couples, Planning

Winterlicious (January 31–February 13)

Photo via @liciousto / Instagram 

Toronto’s food scene again comes alive with three-course prix fixe menus at over 220 restaurants. From local favourites to global flavours, you’ll find new spots and savour every bite.

  • Location: Multiple venues
  • Website: www.toronto.ca
  • Category: Foodies, Date, Friends, Indoor Fun

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