Free Things to Do in Toronto This December 2024 | Holiday Fun & Activities
Spending your December in Toronto? Then, expect full holiday magic. But it can also be hard on your wallet. Between christmas markets, gift shopping, fancy lattes, and tempting treats, your budget might be feeling the pinch. Luckily, you’ll find free admission events and spots throughout the city this year. From outdoor activities to art galleries offering free entry, your wallet could probably use a little break. Now, here are the free things to do in Toronto this December 2024 that will make your season merrier.
Note: Event details may be subject to change. Check the official website or social media platforms for the latest updates.
Fun Free Things To Do In Toronto This December
Holiday Hills (Until December 29)
Looking for a festive outing that has a little bit of everything? At Holiday Hills, you can spend hours exploring local vendors, strolling through a massive light tunnel, or trying curling. The CN Tower views? Insta-worthy. You’ll also love the live music, cool art installations, and cosy hangouts.
- Location: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.stacktmarket.com
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, date-worthy, fun outdoor
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic 2024 (Until December 31)
Ever wandered through Bloor-Yorkville during the holidays? This is the year to do it. The neighbourhood transforms into a glowing wonderland with sparkling displays and glowing Urban Campfire Benches.
- 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
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, date-worthy
Holiday at The Well (Until December 31)
Not a fan of crowds? Holiday at The Well is perfect for a relaxed holiday outing. It features a Vendor Village with small, local businesses and Nordic-inspired decor. Grab a warm drink or shop for unique gifts while enjoying the festive vibe.
- Location: 486 Front St W, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thewelltoronto.com
- Category: Chill vibes, family-friendly, for friends, date-worthy
Winterfest Toronto (Until January 5, 2025)
Winterfest at Harbourfront Centre brings the holiday vibes with waterfront views. Stroll through sparkling lights or snap a photo with the walk-in Christmas tree. Then, grab your favourite holiday treat from the food trucks and enjoy live entertainment by the fire pit.
- Location: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.winterfesttoronto.com
- Category: Family-friendly, fun outdoor
Cavalcade of Lights (Until January 7, 2025)
The holidays in Toronto wouldn’t feel complete without the Cavalcade of Lights. Here, you’ll witness the iconic tree lighting, nightly skating under glowing lights, and live performances.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, fun outdoor, for friends
Window Wonderland (Until January 31, 2025)
Window Wonderland turns regular windows into stunning augmented reality (AR) displays. Scan the windows with your phone for interactive magic. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful murals showcasing local talent. It’s a self-guided art tour with a festive twist.
- Location: The Junction neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontojunction.ca
- Category: Fun outdoor, for friends, date-worthy
Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Until February 2, 2025)
Union Winter offers a retro-inspired roller rink complete with free skate rentals and DJ nights. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro. It’s a fun and unique way to enjoy winter evenings.
- Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free. Register here.
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Category: For friends, date-worthy, family-friendly
Barkada Holiday Market (December 1)
The Barkada Holiday Market celebrates Asian-owned businesses and local artisans. Browse handmade jewellery, stunning decor, and delicious Asian-inspired snacks. Arrive early—the first 20 shoppers get swag bags packed with goodies.
- Location: STACKT MARKET (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.menagetoronto.com
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, holiday shopping
Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Pop-Up (December 1)
The Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Pop-Up features over 100 artists and artisans selling unique, handmade gifts. With a live DJ keeping the energy up, it’s the perfect place to find holiday treasures and maybe snag a VIP swag bag.
- Location: The Great Hall (1087 Queen St. W., Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontoartcrawl.com
- Category: For friends, family-friendly, holiday shopping
Indigenous Artisan Marketplace 2024 (December 1, 6, 7, 8)
The Indigenous Artisan Marketplace highlights authentic Indigenous crafts like beadwork, moccasins, and handmade jewellery. With new vendors each weekend, you’ll always find something unique while supporting these talented artisans.
- Location: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road, Toronto)
- Admission: Get free tickets here.
- Website: www.ncct.on.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends
George Street Winter Market (December 3)
The George Street Winter Market can make you feel like you are entering a quaint holiday village. Shop from 20+ vendors selling baked goods, jewellery, and more. You can even create your own ornaments while enjoying the festive cheer.
- Date & Time: December 3, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: 300 Adelaide St E, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Instagram: @georgestreet.holidaymarket
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, DIY lovers
Fleurs de Villes NOËL (December 4–8)
A holiday in Toronto isn’t always about winter wonderland; it can also be a floral wonderland. Admire stunning floral installations, including mannequins dressed in flowers, and explore pop-up flower markets. Fleurs de Villes NOËL offers the perfect backdrop for holiday photos.
- Location: Throughout the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.fleursdevilles.com
- Category: For friends, family-friendly, date-worthy
Holiday Fair in the Square (December 6–23)
For a festive outing, Holiday Fair in the Square checks all the boxes. Shop unique gifts from local artisans, snack on seasonal treats, and relax in the fireside lounge. Also, don’t miss the Coca-Cola Caravan and the LEGO Brickmas Pop-Up Experience.
- Location: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.fairinthesquare.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, fun outdoor
Anga’s Farm Winter Market (December 7–8)
This winter market lets you stroll through stalls filled with handmade goodies while live music sets the holiday mood. Need a Santa pic? Snap one by the fireplace! Plus, they’re running a hockey gear drive for kids, so you can give back while enjoying the festive cheer.
- Location: Anga’s Farm & Nursery (89 Bankfield Drive, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Free (Some workshops/activities may have a small fee). RSVP here.
- Website: www.angasfarm.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, fun outdoor
Maker Bean Holiday Maker Market (December 7–8)
Love DIY and supporting the locals? The Maker Bean Holiday Maker Market features local artisans showcasing creative handmade goods in a chill and festive atmosphere. Also, feel good about giving back by donating non-perishable items to Oasis Dufferin Community Centre.
- Location: The Maker Bean Cafe (1052 Bloor St. West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.themakerbean.com
- Category: Chill vibes, for friends, family-friendly
Krampus Mart (December 7)
Shopping for that one quirky friend? Krampus Mart offers over 35 artisans selling everything from eccentric art to cheeky stocking stuffers. It’s a fun and laid-back way to shop for the weird and wonderful people in your life.
- Location: Ground Control (1279 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontodarkartsmarket.com
- Category: For friends, 19+ vibe, fun indoor
Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market (December 13–15)
Feeling stressed about holiday shopping? The Botanical Garden Holiday Market is a peaceful escape. Browse eco-friendly, garden-inspired gifts and snack on gourmet treats. With over 60 vendors, this is where you’ll tick off your gift list.
- Location: Toronto Botanical Garden (777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, holiday shopping
Her Holiday Market (December 14–15)
Shop with purpose at Her Holiday Market, featuring over 30 women-owned businesses. From handmade gifts to unique holiday finds, this market is the perfect spot to support local talent. Plus, it’s happening at STACKT MARKET, so expect trendy vibes, networking opportunities, and festive energy.
- Location: Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thetrendingtable.ca
- Category: For friends, holiday shopping
Winter Skating at The Bentway (December 21, 2024–February 17, 2025)
Haven’t you tried skating under the Gardiner Expressway before? The Bentway’s figure-eight trail is back, offering 220m of winter fun for skaters of all skill levels. Watch for free skate rental nights and make it a regular stop for winter evenings.
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thebentway.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, fun outdoor, for friends
Riverdale Farm
Take a break from the city buzz with a visit to Riverdale Farm in Cabbagetown. Wander through the snowy gardens, meet the farm animals, and experience the rustic charm.
- Location: 201 Winchester St, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.riverdalefarmtoronto.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, chill vibes
Art Gallery of Ontario (First Wednesday of the Month)
Need a little culture in your winter plans? Head to the Art Gallery of Ontario for free admission every first Wednesday of the month. Explore world-class art collections while escaping the cold.
- Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.ago.ca
- Category: For friends, date-worthy
Tommy Thompson Park
Looking for a scenic outdoor adventure? Tommy Thompson Park’s waterfront trails lead you to the stunning Toronto Harbour Lighthouse and incredible views of the city. Don’t miss the floating bridge and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.
- Location: 1 Leslie Street, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.tommythompsonpark.ca
- Category: Fun outdoor, family-friendly, for friends
St. Lawrence Market
A foodie and a street photographer? St. Lawrence Market is your next stop. Packed with history and character since 1803, this market is full of iconic sights and delicious bites. Swing by on weekends for the farmers’ and antique markets to find unique goods and great photo ops.
- Location: 92- 95 Front St East, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.stlawrencemarket.com
- Category: Family-friendly, for friends, fun indoor
High Park
Just 15 minutes from downtown, High Park is a winter gem. It’s an ideal spot for cross-country skiing, exploring forests and gardens, or just enjoying fresh air. It’s also packed with amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a small zoo for the kids.
- Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Category: Family-friendly, fun outdoor, for friends
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
For an artsy evening, head to MOCA, where admission is free every Friday from 5–9 pm. Known for thought-provoking exhibitions, this museum offers a fresh perspective on contemporary art. It’s a great way to add some creativity to your weekend.
- Location: 158 Sterling Rd #100, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.moca.ca
- Category: For friends, date-worthy, chill vibes
Toronto PATH
Escape the cold and explore the Toronto PATH, a 30-km underground network connecting downtown. Along the way, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and even art displays in the SkyWalk section near the CN Tower. It’s a unique way to see the city without braving the winter chill.
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Category: For friends, fun indoor, date-worthy
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