Cavalcade of Lights 2025 – A Christmas To Do at Nathan Phillips Square
The chill is in the air, the days are getting shorter, and that can only mean one thing: it’s almost time for the Cavalcade of Lights Toronto 2025!
If you’re like me, you look forward to the spectacular way the city lights up every holiday season. This annual, free festival is the official kickoff to winter magic in the city, and I’ve got all the essential, confirmed details you need to plan your visit to Nathan Phillips Square.
The Core Dates and Location
The Cavalcade of Lights transforms the heart of downtown Toronto for over a month, making it a must-see winter destination.
The festival runs from Saturday, November 29, 2025, through Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The central hub for all the dazzling light installations and major events is Nathan Phillips Square, located right in front of Toronto City Hall (100 Queen St W).
The stunning spectacle—featuring more than 300,000 energy-efficient LED lights and Toronto’s official Christmas tree—will illuminate the Square nightly from dusk until 11 p.m.
This extended run means you have plenty of time to visit! If you prefer smaller crowds, I recommend visiting on a weekday evening after the spectacular opening night.
The Grand Opening Night: November 29, 2025
Opening night is the biggest draw, featuring a jam-packed schedule of entertainment and, of course, the main event: the official tree lighting.
- What You Need to Know: The festivities begin at 6 p.m. and run until 11 p.m. The centerpiece is the ceremonial Countdown to the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree at approximately 6:30 p.m. This is followed by a breathtaking Candlelight concert produced by Fever Entertainment on the main stage. The night is a true cultural celebration, embracing a theme of illumination and cross-cultural unity.
- Performance Highlights: The headline musical guest for the evening is acclaimed Canadian recording artist, Juno Award nominee Tyler Shaw. Other confirmed performances include an Indigenous set by DJ Classic Roots and a figure skating show on the rink featuring two-time national pairs medalists Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud.
If you want the full, high-energy experience, the 29th is the night to be there! Plan to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the tree lighting and the musical acts.
Ice Skating and Family-Friendly Activities
The Cavalcade of Lights is more than just beautiful displays; it’s about participating in the fun of winter.
The Nathan Phillips Square rink is open for public skating all evening on opening night and throughout the festival’s run. You can glide under the massive illuminated ‘TORONTO’ sign and the sparkling lights. The City is also offering free skate rentals every Saturday evening from 4 to 10 p.m., beginning December 6, 2025.
Look out for Diya decoration workshops led by artist Aakhya Singh, and entertaining performances by circus acts like toy soldiers and fire performers roaming the Square. Additionally, the City’s official Menorah will be illuminated nightly during Hanukkah, from December 14–22, 2025.
Forget about carrying your skates! The free skate rentals on Saturdays make this one of the most accessible and fun family activities in the city.
Skating into the New Year
The celebration doesn’t stop with Christmas; the lights keep glowing well into the New Year.
The annual New Year’s Skating Party is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. The party, hosted by Mayor Olivia Chow and City Council, will feature free skate rentals (while supplies last), hot chocolate, local DJs, and other winter activities.
If you’re looking for a fun, free, and family-friendly event to cap off the holiday break, this skating party is the perfect opportunity. I think it’s a great way to squeeze in one last bit of winter joy before January gets underway.
The Cavalcade of Lights is proudly presented by Desjardins Financial Group and is one of Toronto’s most cherished annual traditions. It’s an essential part of the holiday experience, and I hope you can make it out to Nathan Phillips Square to enjoy the beautiful lights and community spirit!
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