How to Plan Your Christmas in the Distillery District
One place to find the true holiday spirit in Toronto? The historic Distillery District transforms into the enchanting Winter Village every Christmas season. Here, you can expect twinkling lights, cobblestone streets, and holiday cheer around every corner. Formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market, this seasonal event offers festive activities, delicious treats, and unique shopping experiences.

This beloved destination offers everything you need to get into the Christmas spirit, from tree lighting ceremonies to Taylor Swift scavenger hunts. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.
The Winter Village Must-Sees

The Christmas Tree
This isn’t just any Christmas tree you’ve seen before. It’s a 55-foot silver fir sourced from Drysdale Farm near Orangeville, and it’s decorated by Christian Dior Parfums.
- Location – Right in the heart of the Winter Village.
- Photo Tip – It’s the perfect spot for holiday photos with dazzling lights and carefully designed decorations.
Meet Santa
- Santa’s Village – Located in the Soulpepper Theatre Atrium, Santa’s Village is where families can warm up with hot chocolate and take photos with Santa himself.
- Santa’s Elves – Keep an eye out for Santa’s jolly elves who roam the cobblestone streets, spreading holiday cheer and, occasionally, a sweet treat.
Live Music & Entertainment
- Mo Guzman – Catch singer and guitarist Mo Guzman as he fills the village with festive music, creating the perfect holiday soundtrack.
- McGregor Carolers – Join the McGregor Carolers as they sing both traditional carols and modern favourites like Taylor Swift’s “Christmas Tree Farm.” The lyrics are projected onto the Spirit of York Singing Wall so everyone can sing along.
- Alpine Merry Sheep Choir – Don’t miss this quirky quartet of “singing sheep” who prance around in charming costumes, delivering joyful tunes on Sunday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Special Events and Experiences

The Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Date: Wednesday, November 13
- Schedule: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Shops and restaurants open for the day), 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Food vendors and outdoor shopping open), 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM (Mo Guzman’s live performance), 6:00 PM (The grand tree lighting), 6:15 PM (Season’s first holiday song, led by the McGregor Carolers)
- Ticket Note: Tickets are required for this event. All proceeds from ticket sales on this night will support The Anishnawbe Health Foundation, The Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund, and Soulpepper Theatre.
Illuminarium’s Winterland Experience
Illuminarium Winterland is an immersive holiday experience that’s included with your Winter Village ticket. It takes you to a North Pole-inspired setting filled with snow-capped mountains, cozy cabins, and holiday scenes.
Taylor-Made Holiday Hunt
Any Swifties here? With Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stopping in Toronto, the Winter Village has organized a Taylor-Made Holiday Hunt. This seven-stop scavenger hunt will guide you to special spots around the village where you can solve clues for a holiday bracelet.
So, find the mystery word for a bonus bracelet. This hunt runs only while Taylor is in town, from November 13 to November 24.
Picture-Perfect Spots
From classic holiday decor to new photo installations, there are countless photo ops throughout the Winter Village:
- Santa’s Sleigh – Snap a festive photo on this red sleigh, complete with reindeer and vintage bells.
- Family Wreath – Gather your loved ones in front of the grand 10-foot holiday wreath.
- Ice Archways – Walk through glittering, icy archways along the Gristmill, Case Goods, and Tank House.
- Aurora Borealis – Enjoy a stunning light display inspired by Canada’s Northern Lights, with projections of snow-covered landscapes and trees.
Holiday Pet Photography
New this year, Pawpin’ Clicks is here to capture holiday memories with your furry friends. Book a session or drop in for a keepsake family photo, including pets.
Click here for more info.
Food & Drinks to Keep You Warm

Foodies, The Distillery Winter Village has delicious options everywhere you turn:
Warm Treats & Festive Food
Feast on seasonal favourites like smash burgers, pierogies, poutine, schnitzel, and jerk chicken. Or try sweet delights like churros, mini donuts, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and cotton candy.
Outdoor Bars
Nothing says winter like a hot drink in hand. Find mulled wine, hot sangria, eggnog, and spiced Ontario apple cider at various spots. For a cozy, tropical twist, head to the Visit Florida Bar on the Archeo patio for Florida-inspired drinks. The Naughty or Nice Bar in the covered tent is another must-visit, offering festive cocktails in a heated space.
Year-Round Restaurants & Cafes
The Distillery District’s permanent eateries are open, too, with options ranging from cozy cafes to bustling pubs. Heated patios make it easy to dine comfortably, no matter the weather.
Holiday Shopping at Distillery Winter Village

You’ll find gifts for everyone on your list at the Winter Village. Explore over 85 local shops and pop-up vendor cabins offering:
- Jewelry – Unique, handmade pieces
- Home Décor – Festive decorations and items for the season
- Artisan Foods – Specialty foods, gourmet treats, and gift-worthy snacks
- Fashion – Stylish winter accessories for men, women, and kids
All seasonal vendor cabins are cashless, so bring your credit or debit card for easy transactions.
Additional Family Activities

The Distillery Winter Village is packed with family-friendly fun, including:
- North Pole Post – Kids can write letters to Santa and then post them in a 5-foot-tall British-style mailbox.
- Soulpepper Theatre’s Alligator Pie – From December 11–29, catch the family musical Alligator Pie, inspired by Dennis Lee’s beloved children’s poems.
When & How to Visit

Dates & Hours
The Distillery Winter Village runs from November 13, 2024, to January 5, 2025 (closed on Christmas Day). Vendor cabins are open from 12:00 PM, and closing times vary by day:
- Sunday – Thursday: 9:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 10:00 PM
Tickets and Entry Information
When Tickets Are Required:
- Thursday to Sunday after 4:00 PM
- Daily from December 12 – December 31 after 4:00 PM
Prices:
- Tickets: $15 General Admission, $18 Flex Ticket, $30 Express Gate Entry, $39.50 Combo Ticket. Get your tickets here.
- Kids: Free for those aged nine and under
How to Purchase
Tickets must be bought online; there’s no box office at the entrance. You can buy tickets on your mobile device using QR codes displayed at entry points. However, advance purchase is highly recommended as tickets may sell out.
Free Entry: Enjoy free entry during non-ticketed hours:
- Monday – Thursday before 4:00 PM
- Outside the December 12–31 period before 4:00 PM
Getting to the Distillery Winter Village

Parking is limited, so consider taking public transit or rideshare services:
By TTC:
- From King Street West, catch the 504A King Streetcar heading east and ride it straight to the Distillery Loop.
- From Castle Frank Station, hop on the 65 Parliament bus for a direct ride to Mill Street. Extra service runs on Fridays from 4:00 PM to midnight and weekends from 11:00 AM to midnight.
- From Broadway Station, take the 504 King/Dundas Streetcar to reach King & Sumach Street. From there, transfer to the 504A King Streetcar heading east to the Distillery Loop. Alternatively, enjoy a 5-minute walk south of King & Sumach to reach the Distillery District.
- From Queen Street East, hop on the 503 Kingston Road Streetcar to King & Sumach Street. Then switch to an eastbound 504A King Streetcar and ride straight to the Distillery Loop. Or, take the 72A Pape bus to Parliament & Front Street and enjoy a short 5-minute stroll south to reach the heart of the district.
- From Union Station, take Line 1 (Yonge-University)to King Station. Next, exit at Yonge & King East (Southeast Corner), then hop on the 504A King Streetcar heading east, and get off at the Distillery Loop. Or, for a direct bus ride, catch the 121 Esplanade River bus at Front & Bay Street East, which takes you to Mill Street and Trinity Street.
GO Transit:
- Take GO Transit to Union Station, then hop on the TTC or walk to the Distillery District.
- Use the GO Weekend Day Pass or Weekday Group Passes for an affordable travel option.
Nearby Hotels for a Holiday Staycation

Make a night of it. These nearby hotels offer special packages and easy access to the Winter Village:
Fairmont Royal York – Their Winter Village Package includes two Express Entry tickets, two hot chocolate vouchers, and breakfast for two at REIGN Restaurant.
1 Hotel Toronto – This eco-friendly hotel offers luxury accommodations with sustainable practices, perfect for a green holiday escape.
The Broadview Hotel – It is a historic boutique hotel with vibrant decor and comfortable rooms, offering a convenient and stylish option.
Chelsea Hotel – This friendly hotel has 1,590 rooms and two recreation areas (one for families and one for adults). Plus, enjoy the city’s only 130-foot indoor “Corkscrew” waterslide.
Quick Tips for an Unforgettable Visit

- Plan Ahead – Buy tickets in advance, particularly if you’re visiting during peak hours.
- Dress Warmly – The Winter Village is mostly outdoors, so bundle up.
- Arrive Early for Photos – Capture the tree and other installations before the crowds arrive.
- Weather Policy– Severe weather may allow you to reschedule with a Flex or Express Gate Entry ticket. Check the Winter Village website or Instagram (@distilleryto) for updates.
- Ticket Transfers – Tickets are transferable; simply forward the digital ticket to someone else if you can’t make it.
- Special Events Access– If you’re attending a private event or wedding, show your digital confirmation for complimentary access. Arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before your event time.
Christmas magic takes over Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village each year, making it the ultimate holiday destination in the city. From beautiful lights to delightful treats, it has everything you need to make this holiday season memorable.
Note: Details may be subject to change. Check the official website or social media platforms to stay updated.
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