It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the holidays in Toronto are right around the corner. 

Toronto is known for its outstanding lineup of holiday events that you don’t want to miss this season. 

“There’s nothing quite like the holiday events that take place in Toronto, I will be attending as many as I can this year,” said Asia Armstrong, a 4th-year student at the University of Guelph.

Each event will go through December, even if you miss the opening night, it’s not your only chance to visit the venue.

A 2nd-year student at the University of Guelph, Issac Stone said, “I wasn’t even a big fan of the Christmas season until my girlfriend brought me to the Distillery District Market, my mind quickly changed with how fun it was.” 

These holiday viewings will blow your mind with the creativity and effort poured into them.

The University of Guelph-Humber ties the holiday bow, wrapping up exams on December 17th, 2023, giving students plenty of time to catch the holiday festivities before they are over.

Holiday events in Toronto may further for some students but don’t be discouraged.

The TTC or your local GO Station provides commuting to the specified areas of each holiday event, allowing you to travel with ease.

3rd-year Guelph student Ava Finch said, “During the break from my studies, I will definitely be going to one of Toronto’s holiday events. I live a bit further out of the city, the GO train will be my best friend.”

Whether you’re looking for a magical date night out, or just a night out filled with holiday excitement, I got you covered with everything you need to know about this upcoming holiday event. 

 

1. Cavalcade of Lights 

Experience global holiday traditions with mesmerizing lights, live performances, and the city’s grand Christmas tree lighting. The event takes place at Nathan Philips Square. No charge for this event.

 

2. CPKC Holiday Train 

All aboard the Holiday Train! Marvel at 1,000 feet of LEDs and a boxcar stage. A festive journey aglow with spirit! Have you ever wanted to experience a Christmas Train? Then this is for you. Experience this event at 750 Runnymede Road, in front of Lambton Yard. No charge for this event.

 

3. Tree Lighting at Fairmont 

Join a 93. year tradition at Fairmont Royal York’s Tree Lighting with Santa and the Candy Cane Carolers for a dazzling start to the holidays! What’s better than a massive tree being lit up? The Tree Lighting at Fairmont will be taking place in the main lobby of the Fairmont Royal York. No charge for this event.

 

4. Winterfest 

Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a winter spectacle with ice skating, festive shows, and nightly tree-lighting ceremonies for family fun! A theme park turned into a winter wonderland! Enjoy Canada’s Wonderland Winterfest for $29.99. You can experience the Winterfest any day from November 17th – January 6th, 2024.

 

5. Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic 

Experience Holiday Magic with Matt Dusk’s jazz at Yorkville Park’s lighting ceremony. The event will continue through December 31st, 2023 at Village of Yorkville Park (115 Cumberland Street). No charge for this event.

 

6. Distillery District Tree Lighting 

Toronto’s beloved holiday market returns, starting with the Distillery District Tree Lighting Ceremony – don’t miss the festive cheer! This event takes place until the new year. The event will happen at 520 Lakeshore Blvd East. Tickets cost $15 to enter the venue.

After many long days and weeks of constant studying for University assignments, grab yourself a hot drink, close your computer, put the textbooks down, relax, and embrace the wonders of the holidays in Toronto. 

The holiday season doesn’t last forever so make your 2023 holiday, the best one yet!