Best Things To Do This Week (December 23 – 29) in Toronto
It’s the last stretch of December, and New Year’s is just around the corner. But Toronto is still buzzing with things to do. Still in holiday mode, looking for some last-minute adventures, or trying to shake off the post-dinner food coma? We’ve rounded up the best things to do this week to help enjoy those last December vibes before the year wraps up.
Note: Event details may be subject to change. Check the official website or social media platforms for the latest updates.
Holiday Fair in the Square (Ongoing, Until December 23)
The Holiday Fair in the Square is a mix of festive fun and holiday shopping with artisan vendors, yummy food, and festive drinks. There’s a fireside lounge to warm up, a Santa Village for those classic holiday pics, and a market full of unique gifts. Plus, it supports Epilepsy Toronto, so you can feel good while having fun.
- Location: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.fairinthesquare.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, gift shopping, or just catching up with friends.
Winter Market at St. Lawrence Market (Ongoing, Until December 23)
This cosy outdoor market features local goodies, unique gifts, and snacks that’ll make you feel warm and fuzzy. Stroll at your own pace, grab a hot drink, and enjoy the live music.
- Location: St. Lawrence Market (92-95 Front St., Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.stlawrencemarket.com
- Best for: Family outings, casual date nights, or solo shopping with a festive twist.
Yorkville Village Holiday Pop-up Markets (Ongoing, Until December 23)
Stuck on gift ideas? Yorkville has these pop-ups featuring over 150 Canadian brands and makers. You’ll find jewellery, beauty products, candles, and baby toys. Plus, you might just find the perfect holiday treat or décor to wow your guests.
- Location: Yorkville Village (55 Avenue Rd, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.yorkvillevillage.com
- Best for: Friends’ day out, last-minute gift hunting, and supporting locals.
LEGO Holiday Pop-Up Market (Ongoing, Until December 23)
Got a LEGO lover in your life? This one’s a must-see. With a life-sized LEGO fireplace and hands-on build stations, it’s every kid’s (and even adult’s) dream. You can even craft your own ornament for the tree and snag a bonus gift when you spend $35.
- Location: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.fairinthesquare.ca
- Best for: Family outings, LEGO fans of all ages, and hands-on holiday fun.
Ho, Ho, Haute! Santa Is Back at Bayview Village (Ongoing, Until December 24)
Santa’s making his stylish return to Bayview Village, and this year, it’s about the glam. Book a photo session or pop in for a quick walk-in. You can also join sensory-friendly sessions with low lights and sound so everyone feels welcome.
- Location: Bayview Village Shops (2901 Bayview Avenue, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.bayviewvillageshops.com
- Best for: Families (including sensory-sensitive kids), festive selfies, and capturing memories.
Ginger’s Cocktail Bar Pop-Up (Ongoing, Until December 24)
If holiday cocktails and festive vibes sound good, visit Ginger’s Cocktail Bar in the west end. The decor is so extra (in the best way), creating the perfect backdrop for seasonal drinks and relaxed conversations.
- Location: Le Dolci Culinary Classroom (12 Sousa Mendes, the Junction Triangle, Toronto)
- Admission: Book your table here.
- Website: www.gingerscocktailbar.ca
- Best for: Low-key hangs with friends or a quiet festive date.
Miracle Toronto 2024 (Ongoing, Until December 29)
Miracle Toronto is basically Christmas exploded into a bar—quirky decor, fun seasonal cocktails, and endless photo ops. Plus, part of what you spend goes to Nellie’s Women’s Shelter, so you’re sipping for a good cause.
- Location: Third Place, 875 Bloor St W, Toronto
- Admission: Reserve your table here.
- Website: www.miracletoronto.com
- Best for: Festive nights with friends, holiday drink lovers, or anyone who loves over-the-top decor.
Holiday Hills (Ongoing, Until December 29)
This is where festive fun meets city cool. Holiday Hills has over 100 vendors, a glowing light tunnel perfect for photos, and cosy huts for roasting s’mores. Curling? Yep, that’s here too.
- Location: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.stacktmarket.com
- Best for: Families, outdoor fun, and nights out with friends.
Festive Lights Double-Decker Bus Tour (Ongoing, Until December 30)
Haven’t experienced Toronto’s holiday glow from a double-decker bus yet? Now’s your chance. This 75–90-minute guided tour hits all the festive hotspots, including Yorkville and Nathan Phillips Square.
- Location: The bus boards nightly on the east side of Yonge Street beside the Visitor Information kiosk at Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.citysightseeingtoronto.com
- Best for: Date nights, friends looking for a festive adventure, or out-of-towners who want the full Toronto experience.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Ongoing, Until December 30)
Got your golden ticket? Charlie and the Chocolate Factory brings the magic to life with chocolate rivers, gumdrop trees, and Oompa Loompas. It’s a fun and whimsical musical that works for kids, but adults will love it, too.
- Location: Young People’s Theatre (165 Front St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.youngpeoplestheatre.org
- Best for: Families, musical fans, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience (Ongoing, Until the End of December)
Ready to bring your love for dinosaurs to life? Dinos Alive has massive, moving dinosaurs, an interactive paleontologist zone, and even a virtual aquarium.
- Location: 30 Hanover Road, North York
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.dinosaliveexhibit.com
- Best for: Families, dinosaur lovers, and anyone who wants a fun indoor escape.
Naughty, Nice, & Undecided (Ongoing, Until December 31)
Looking for a holiday laugh? Second City’s Naughty, Nice & Undecided combines holiday-themed sketches and hilarious improv. The “Nice” version is great for families, and the “Naughty” version brings cheeky fun for late-night crowds.
- Location: The Second City (The Second City, 110 Harbour St, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.secondcity.com
- Best for: Comedy fans, family outings (nice version), or late-night fun with friends (naughty version)
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic 2024 (Ongoing, Until December 31)
Thinking of a festive stroll at night? Bloor-Yorkville lights up the season with sparkling displays and glowing Urban Campfire Benches. There’s also live entertainment and plenty of shops and restaurants to check out along the way.
- Location: Village of Yorkville Park (115 Cumberland Street, Toronto), Urban Campfire Benches – Bloor Street West (between Church Street and Avenue Road)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.bloor-yorkville.com
- Best for: Couples, families, or anyone looking for relaxed holiday vibes.
National Ballet of Canada: The Nutcracker (Ongoing, Until December 31)
It doesn’t get more classic than this. The Nutcracker has stunning sets, gorgeous costumes, and everything that makes you feel warm and fuzzy about the holidays.
- Location: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts (145 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.national.ballet.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, or anyone who loves holiday traditions.
Holiday at The Well (Ongoing, Until December 31)
If big crowds aren’t your thing, check out Holiday at The Well. It’s chill, with a cozy Vendor Village featuring local small businesses and a Nordic-inspired vibe perfect for kicking back.
- Location: 486 Front St W, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thewelltoronto.com
- Best for: Casual outings, family time, and stress-free holiday shopping.
Featured performances:
- Aurora Borealis
- Ghirardelli Chocolate Sampling Experience
- Public Skating
- Musical Performances
- Holiday Workshops
- Skating Performances
- Vendor Village
- Immersive Stardust Bridge
- Glenfiddich’s Spirits of the Season Lounge
- NORDIC by BarChef
Daily Tree Light and Snow Shows (Ongoing, Until December 31)
Looking for some low-key holiday magic? Head to CF Toronto Eaton Centre for their daily light and snow shows. It’s simple, beautiful, and mesmerising. Plus, it’s free. So, gather your loved ones and let the holiday spirit take over.
- Location: CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.shops.cadillacfairview.com
Cirque du Soleil – Twas The Night Before (Ongoing, Until January 3, 2025)
Cirque du Soleil doing a holiday show? Yes. Twas The Night Before is full of impressive acrobatics, fun characters, and holiday music that feels fresh but still festive.
- Location: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.cirquedusoleil.com
- Best for: Families, Cirque fans, or anyone who wants a holiday show with a twist.
Casa Loma Holiday Lights Tour (Ongoing, Until January 4, 2025)
Holiday lights in a castle? Yes, that’s a thing. Casa Loma goes all out with twinkling displays, festive decor, and live performances. Santa’s workshop is on-site, too, which is a hit for the little ones.
- Location: Casa Loma (1 Austin Terrace, Toronto)
- Admission: Check ticket prices here
- Holiday Lights VIP Experience (Admits 2): December 5 – Dec 19 ($125), December 20 – January 4 ($150)
- Website: www.casaloma.ca
- Best for: Families, couples, or anyone who loves a magical holiday setting.
Distillery Winter Village (Ongoing, Until January 5, 2025)
The holidays aren’t complete without a visit to the Distillery Winter Village. You’ll find open-air bars serving up festive drinks, live entertainment around every corner, and a massive Christmas tree perfect for photos.
- 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
- Best for: Families, date nights, festive hangs with friends, or late-night cocktails.
The Wizard of Oz: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical (Ongoing, Until January 5, 2025)
Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical puts a hilarious twist on the classic tale. From toe-tapping songs to laugh-out-loud moments, this holiday panto is full of surprises for all ages.
- Location: The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre (189 Yonge Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.canadianstage.com
- Best for: Families, musical fans, and anyone looking for a light-hearted holiday show.
AGO Holiday Afternoon Tea (Ongoing, Until January 5, 2025)
Looking for a cosy way to spend an afternoon? The AGO Holiday Afternoon Tea offers the perfect mix of festive treats, warm drinks, and art-filled vibes.
- Location: The Grange, Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Book your table here.
- Website: www.ago.ca
- Best for: Friends, family gatherings, and anyone who loves relaxing holiday moments.
Winterfest Toronto (Ongoing, Until January 5, 2025)
Ever wondered what Harbourfront Centre looks like as a winter wonderland? Winterfest Toronto features a glowing walk-in Christmas tree and a fire pit lounge to warm up. Also, you’ll find plenty of festive food and drinks, from mulled wine to sugar shack treats.
- Location: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.winterfesttoronto.com
- Best for: Families, foodies, and friends looking for festive waterfront fun.
Cavalcade of Lights (Ongoing, Until January 7, 2025)
Can you think of a better way of enjoying the holidays than being at the Cavalcade of Lights? From the stunning Christmas to nightly ice skating and live performances, it’s undoubtedly a holiday tradition.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, and anyone who loves big-city holiday charm.
FHPZ Holiday Trees (Ongoing, Until January 4, 2025)
Holiday lights and wildlife? That’s possible at the FHPZ Holiday Trees in High Park Zoo. Walk through the zoo’s snowy pathways lined with beautifully decorated trees, each sponsored and decked out for the season.
- Location: High Park Zoo (1873 Bloor St West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.highparkzoo.ca
- Best for: Families, winter strolls, or anyone who loves a quiet, festive escape.
New Vistas Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 14, 2025)
Feeling like a break from holiday chaos? Then, visit the New Vistas Art Exhibition, where bold, thought-provoking pieces invite you to see the world through fresh eyes. It’s an interesting reset button for your creativity during the busiest time of the year.
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Artsy types, solo adventurers, and anyone tired of the holiday hustle.
Window Wonderland (Ongoing, Until January 31, 2025)
This free outdoor art walk transforms storefronts into AR window displays and murals by talented artists. The highlight this year? The new Flora and Fauna mural, which is inspired by butterfly gardens and pollinators.
- Location: The Junction neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontojunction.ca
- Best for: Art lovers, families, and relaxed outings with friends.
Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Ongoing, Until February 2, 2025)
Union Station just got a winter glow-up with Union Winter’s Roller Express. This elevated roller rink offers free skate rentals, lessons, and DJ nights, making it fun for everyone.
- Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Register here.
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, or a fun night out with friends.
Winter Skating at The Bentway (Ongoing, Until February 17, 2025)
Another perfect spot for winter skating? The Bentway offers a figure-eight skating trail under the Gardiner Expressway. They’ve even got special skate rental nights and events to make your visit special.
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thebentway.ca
- Best for: Families, friends, or anyone looking for outdoor winter fun.
Hangar Skate Returns to YZD! (Ongoing, Until February 17, 2025)
Skating season is here, and Hangar Skate brings the fun back to YZD. Jaw-dropping art installations surround this 4,500-square-foot rink. There’s free admission, cheap skate rentals, and even DJ nights.
- Location: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.yzd.ca
- Best for: Families, friend groups, and couples looking for a fun outdoor date.
Erika Ehler & Enemies (December 23)
Erika Ehler’s sharp wit and dark humour are paired with top-notch delivery, making her one of the most exciting names on the scene. Featuring Jack Hirshfield and Tamara Shevon, it’s a night of laughs you won’t forget.
- Location: Comedy Bar (945 Bloor Street W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comedybar.ca
- Best for: Comedy lovers, date nights, or a laugh-out-loud evening with friends.
New in Town Comedy with James Roque – Christmas Edition (December 23)
This week is your chance to join James Roque’s special Christmas comedy night. He’s teamed up with some of Toronto’s best comedians for a fun, laid-back show. Bonus: James just moved to Toronto, so you might even make a new friend by the end of the night.
- Location: Comedy Bar (945 Bloor Street W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comedybar.ca
- Best for: Groups of friends, casual date nights, and anyone who loves stand-up comedy.
Christmas Day with Donné Roberts & Quincy Bullen at DROM Taberna (December 25)
Not into the usual Christmas routine? Head to DROM Taberna for a soul-warming night of live music, good food, and even better vibes. Juno winner Donné Roberts and the incredibly talented Quincy Bullen will have you grooving with their soulful tunes.
- Location: DROM Taberna (458 Queen St. W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.dromtaberna.com
- Best for: Music lovers, solo adventurers, and anyone skipping the traditional Christmas plans.
ROM for the Holidays (December 26, 2024 – January 5, 2025)
The ROM is turning up the holiday magic again this year. Expect live performances, hands-on activities, and three breathtaking special exhibitions. This year’s theme celebrates the beauty of colour, inspired by art, culture, and nature.
- Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.rom.on.ca
- Best for: Families, art lovers, and anyone looking to spark their curiosity.
All Out Comedy – Holiday Edition (December 26)
Ready for a laugh-filled night? Then, visit Comedy Bar Bloor, where you’ll meet Justin Subryan and a lineup of Toronto’s funniest comedians. So, grab a drink, settle into your seat, and let the laughter roll. And yes, it’s the perfect way to shake off that post-Christmas food coma.
- Location: Comedy Bar (945 Bloor Street W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comedybar.ca
- Best for: A fun night out with friends, 19+, comedy enthusiasts.
All Vinyl Everything – Boxing Day Edition w/ Starting From Scratch (December 26)
Starting From Scratch is making his epic return to All Vinyl Everything at the Drake Hotel. This year, he will take you on another memorable musical performance supported by resident DJs Agile, Mista Jiggz, and Mensa.
- Location: The Drake Hotel (1150 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @allvinyleverythingtoronto
- Best for: Music fans, party-goers, 19+, a night of nostalgic vibes.
Abbas Wahab & Friends Comedy Night (December 27)
Abbas Wahab calls on his funniest friends for a bold, unfiltered comedy night at the legendary Free Times Café. The intimate setting makes it feel like you’re in on a secret, and the raw humour guarantees a night full of laughs. Just remember—this isn’t the place to be shy.
- Location: Free Times Cafe (320 College St, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.abbaswahab.com
- Best for: Comedy enthusiasts, 19+, an edgy night out.
The Little Purrr-maid Pantomime (December 27, 2024 – January 5, 2025)
Join Ariel as she teams up with Prince Hamlet and a cast of quirky characters to outwit the scheming Sea Witch, Mantaray Gun. It’s a magical, interactive musical that kids and adults will love. So, ready to sing, laugh, and maybe even help save the day?
- Location: Red Sandcastle Theatre (922 Queen Street East, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.redsandcastletheatre.com
- Best for: Families, kids, and anyone who loves interactive fun.
Tashan: 5th Anniversary Celebration (December 27)
Tashan invites you to its massive 5th-anniversary bash. Besides the 5,000 square feet of dance space, you’ll love Toronto’s top DJs spinning the best of Bollywood and Indo-house beats. So, dress to impress and hit the dance floor for an epic celebration.
- Location: The Parkdale Hall (1605 Queen Street West ##2, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.tashanevents.ca
- Best for: Bollywood music lovers, dance enthusiasts, 19+.
Pop-up Sessions with Mel Dubé (December 27)
Looking for something chill and soulful? Pop-up Sessions brings you an intimate night of acoustic music featuring Mel Dubé and special guests Maurice Gordon (guitar) and Michael Kennedy (bass). Expect a mix of soul, jazz, reggae, and original tracks from Mel’s album The Reveal.
- Location: The Redwood Theatre (1300 Gerrard Street, East York)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.theredwoodtheatre.com
- Best for: Music lovers, chill night out, acoustic vibes.
Light Up the Dark 2024 (December 27 – 29)
With Light Up the Dark, the Aga Khan Museum transforms into a glowing wonderland. Watch the museum’s façade come alive with stunning light projections created by OCAD University artists. You’ll also enjoy warm drinks, free live performances, and tasty bites from Diwan.
- Location: Aga Khan Museum Park (77 Wynford Dr, Toronto)
- Admission: Check ticket prices here.
- Website: www.agakhanmuseum.org
- Best for: Families, date nights, art lovers, and a unique evening out.
Ebi – The Love Project Tour (December 27)
Ebi fans, this is your night. The iconic Iranian pop singer brings his legendary voice to Toronto for one memorable concert. Of course, expect unique sounds and heartfelt performances.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.emhproductions.com
- Best for: Persian music fans, date nights, or anyone who loves live performances.
Solaris (December 27–28)
Toronto’s biggest winter EDM festival, Solaris, is back to keep the holiday vibes going. With sets from Dabin and Gryffin, this two-night party is about energy, music, and good times.
- Location: Rebel (11 Polson St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.solaristoronto.com
- Best for: EDM fans, party-goers, and anyone who loves live music with high energy.
- Best for: EDM fans, party-goers, and anyone who loves live music with high energy.
The Dreamboats w/ The 99s – All Covers Night! (December 28)
The Dreamboats brings retro rock ’n’ roll back to the iconic Horseshoe Tavern. They’ll serve all your favourite hits from the ’50s and ’60s. You can watch Toronto’s party band, The 99s, perform a mix of pop, rock, and R&B classics.
- Location: Horseshoe Tavern (370 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.horseshoetavern.com
- Best for: Music lovers, retro vibes, dancing with friends.
Free Art Tour on Dundas West (December 28)
Featuring over 30 murals by local and international artists, this free walking tour highlights some of the city’s best street art. You’ll even meet special guest Marcie, who played a role in the Portuguese Women’s Rights Movement in the ’70s.
- Location: Dundas Street West, from Lansdowne to Shaw, in the west end of downtown Toronto
- Admission: Get your free tickets here.
- Website: www.littleportugaltorontobia.com
- Best for: Art lovers, culture enthusiasts, free fun outdoors.
Fashion Wars 2024 (December 28)
Ready for the ultimate fashion showdown? Six daring designers will hit the runway in a competition of creativity, flair, and fabulousness. Forget streetwear—this is about bold, edgy designs that wow the crowd. The audience and judges will crown the winner, so your vote matters.
- Location: Super Wonder Gallery (1162 Bloor St. West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.superwondergallery.com
- Best for: Fashionistas, creative souls, a glamorous night out.
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