Things To Do This December 2024 In Toronto and GTA
As the year winds down, the Greater Toronto Area transforms into a winter wonderland, each neighborhood offering its own unique flavor of holiday magic. From the bustling streets of downtown to the charming suburbs, here’s your guide to making the most of December 2024 across the GTA.
Downtown Toronto
Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
The heart of downtown comes alive with a high-tech twist on a classic winter activity. Nathan Phillips Square’s iconic outdoor rink now features an immersive LED light show synchronized to music, creating a magical skating experience.
- Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto
- Open daily, including holidays
- Skate rentals available on-site
- Free admission
- Website: City of Toronto – Nathan Phillips Square
Explore Future Art at the AGO
Just a stone’s throw away, the Art Gallery of Ontario unveils its groundbreaking “Digital Canvas” exhibition. This showcase of international artists pushes the boundaries of technology and creativity with interactive installations and AI-generated masterpieces.
- Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto
- Tue to Fri: 10:30am–5pm | Wed and Fri: 10:30am–9pm | Sat and Sun: 10:30am–5pm | Mon: Closed
- Book timed-entry tickets online
- Website: Art Gallery of Ontario
Midtown
Yorkville’s Augmented Reality Holiday Trail
Bloor-Yorkville introduces an innovative AR holiday experience every December. Download the neighborhood’s app and follow a trail of virtual holiday scenes superimposed on the real-world backdrop of this chic district.
Photos from Bloor-Yorkville BIA
- Start at the Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic parkette (115 Cumberland St, Toronto, ON M5S 1M8)
- Free app download required
- Trail runs daily from dusk to 11pm
- Website: Bloor-Yorkville BIA
Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Get into the holiday spirit with Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic. This annual event brings beautiful light displays, live music, and the well-known tree lighting ceremony to the heart of the neighborhood. Enjoy shopping, dining, and seasonal festivities in one of Toronto’s most vibrant areas—perfect for a holiday outing.
Photos from Bloor-Yorkville BIA
- Location: Village of Yorkville Park (Cumberland St. & Bellair St.)
- Date: November 23rd, 2024
- Time: 5 PM – 7 PM
- Website: Bloor-Yorkville BIA
- *Event is free*
Sustainable Supper Club at Evergreen Brick Works
Experience farm-to-table dining with a festive twist. Evergreen Brick Works hosts a series of sustainable supper clubs featuring local chefs and seasonal ingredients. Each dinner showcases innovative takes on holiday classics.
- Location: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
- Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Website: Evergreen Brick Works
Mississauga
Winter Nights Light Festival at Celebration Square
Mississauga’s Celebration Square transforms into a dazzling light park. Walk through tunnels of twinkling lights, interact with light-up art installations, and enjoy pop-up performances throughout the month.
- Location: 300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga
- Free admission
- 5–11pm daily
- Website: City of Mississauga Events
Virtual Reality Santa’s Workshop at Square One
Square One Shopping Centre brings the North Pole to Mississauga with a state-of-the-art VR experience. Kids (and kids at heart) can step into Santa’s workshop, help the elves, and even take a virtual sleigh ride.
- Location: 100 City Centre Dr, Mississauga
- Suitable for ages 5 and up
- Website: Square One Shopping Centre
Markham
Museum Pottery: Family Slab Building Ornament Workshop
Create up to 10 custom holiday ornaments at this fun, hands-on workshop. Use winter-themed patterns, stamps, and colors to craft unique decorations for your tree or thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Perfect for all ages, but children must be registered with an adult. Don’t miss this chance to make lasting holiday memories.
- Location: 9350 Markham Rd. (Former Hwy. 48), Markham, Ontario L3P 3J3
- Date: November: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & December: 1st and 8th
- Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM for each session
- Website: City of Markham Events
- *Children attending must be registered with an adult*
Vaughan
Snow Tubing at Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest
Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a winter playground. The new “Glacier Peak” snow tubing hill offers an exhilarating ride with computerized lane management for minimal wait times.
- Location: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan ON L6A 1S6
- Separate ticket required for WinterFest
- Height restrictions apply
- Website: Canada’s Wonderland
Richmond Hill
Astronomer for a Night at the David Dunlap Observatory
Take advantage of clear winter nights at Canada’s largest optical telescope. The observatory offers special “Festive Sky” sessions, combining stargazing with holiday-themed astronomy lessons.
- Location: 123 Hillsview Drive, Richmond Hill
- Free tour
- Website: David Dunlap Observatory
Brampton
World of Holidays at Garden Square
Brampton celebrates its diversity with a month-long showcase of holiday traditions from around the globe. Each week features different cultural performances, crafts, and food tastings.
- Location: 12 Main St N, Brampton, ON L6V 1N6
- Free admission
- Check schedule for specific cultural showcases
- Website: City of Brampton Events
From downtown’s urban energy to the suburban charm of the GTA, December 2024 offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation across Toronto and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re into high-tech holiday experiences or cozy seasonal gatherings, there’s something for everyone in every corner of the GTA. This winter, take the opportunity to explore beyond your usual haunts – you might just discover your new favorite holiday tradition in a part of Toronto you’ve never explored before.
Remember to check event websites for the most up-to-date information on tickets, timing, and any health and safety guidelines. Bundle up, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to make this December one to remember across the Greater Toronto Area!
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