Toronto Tree Lighting 2025: Free Tree Lighting Events in Toronto
Toronto’s winter feels different once the first lights turn on. The air gets sharper, crowds shift from patios to parks, and with Toronto Tree Lighting 2025 events happening across the city, you don’t have to spend anything to take part. From the giant tree at City Hall to smaller neighbourhood lightings, Toronto’s free holiday events keep the season warm, even in the cold. Here’s where to see the lights flip on this year.
Where to See Free Tree Lightings in Toronto (2025 Guide)
Cavalcade of Lights (Nathan Phillips Square)
The Cavalcade of Lights is Toronto’s big kickoff to the season. It’s the night the tree in front of City Hall comes to life, surrounded by skating, fireworks, and music echoing across Nathan Phillips Square.
Crowds are big, but that’s part of the charm. The lights stay up until early January, so you can come back later for a quieter visit.
- Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free
- Date: November 29 – January 7, 2026
Fairmont Royal York Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Fairmont Royal York lobby turns into a holiday postcard for one evening. The hotel’s annual tree lighting includes live music, a short countdown, and a quick visit from Santa. It’s cozy, classic, and a short walk from Union Station.
No tickets or reservations are needed, but it fills up fast, so it’s best to arrive early and grab a spot near the tree.
- Location: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free and open to everyone
- Date: November 19, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Yorkville’s lighting night brings together live performances, local artists, and the big moment when Village of Yorkville Park lights up. The event supports Second Harvest, with donations helping provide meals for those in need.
It’s upbeat without being overwhelming, and surrounded by restaurants if you want to turn it into a night out.
- Location: Cumberland St & Bellair St, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free
- Date: November 22, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Uptown Yonge “Light It UP!”
The Uptown Yonge “Light It UP!” event keeps things simple but full of energy. It’s a community-driven night with local performers, carolers, Santa visits, and warm drinks passed around by nearby cafés.
If you want something smaller and neighbourly, this is the one to go to.
- Location: Yonge St (between Soudan Ave & Glengrove Ave), Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free community event
- Date: November 21, 2025
CF Toronto Eaton Centre Tree Lighting
Inside the Eaton Centre, a 114-foot tree lights up every hour with music and fake snowfall drifting through the atrium. It’s bright, free, and indoors — a good way to enjoy some holiday atmosphere without freezing outside.
Drop by anytime between mid-November and New Year’s Eve to catch the light show.
- Location: 220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free
- Date: November 14 – December 31, 2025
The Beaches Tree Lighting
Kew Gardens hosts a community lighting that feels more personal than polished. There’s a small parade, a bit of live music, and a steady crowd of families from the east end.
It’s local, low-key, and the kind of event where everyone sticks around to chat after the lights go on.
- Location: Kew Gardens Park, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free
- Date: Early December 2025 (TBA)
Liberty Village Holiday Lighting
Liberty Village turns its courtyard into a casual gathering spot with patio heaters, string lights, and a mix of vendors. It’s quick and simple — perfect if you want to get into the holiday mood before heading to dinner nearby.
- Location: Liberty Market Courtyard, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free
- Date: Late November 2025 (TBA)
Distillery District Opening Night
The Distillery Winter Village kicks off with a tree lighting that’s worth catching early. Entry is free before 4 p.m. on opening day, and you can see the setup before the ticketed hours begin.
Later in the evening, the tree lights up with the market fully open — stalls, carolers, and everything that makes it feel like the holidays downtown.
- Location: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON
- Cost: Free before 4 p.m. on opening day
- Date: Late November 2025 (TBA)
Toronto Tree Lighting 2025 is your chance to experience the city’s festive glow without spending a dime. Whether you visit the iconic tree at City Hall or explore smaller neighbourhood lightings, these events make the season magical for everyone. Don’t miss out on the joy and sparkle of Toronto this holiday season.
More…..
