December brings alight the holiday events all over Ontario. There are dozens of things to do in Toronto in December, it is almost impossible to fit all of them in. Many holiday events actually start in November taking advantage of the often snowy and always festive season.
If you are wondering what to do in Toronto in December you will not be disappointed with this winter. There are still plenty of Vancouver events to enjoy, and I have listed them all below.
Things to do in Toronto in December
Toronto Christmas Markets
December in Toronto wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its Christmas Markets. Inspired by Europe’s Christkindlmarkt they are considered among the top in Canada.
Distillery Winter Village Christmas Market 2022 info TBD
Nathan Philips Square Christmas Market 2022 info TBD
Chinatown Christmas Market 2022 info TBD
Toronto Santa Claus Parade
This annual tradition may be one of the most visited Toronto attractions in November! The Toronto Christmas Parade consists of over 2000 volunteers in costume and a wide variety of decorated floats, the parade is a beautiful and noisy spectacle. The Parade brings people together, regardless of their background, celebrating hope, family and love. It’s part of the fabric of Toronto. While this is a November event I have included it just in case you are reading this early.
Date: Nov 22nd 2022
More Info: https://thesantaclausparade.com/
St Lawrence Market
St Lawrence market is claimed as the largest indoor market in the country. It is definitely one of the top tourist attractions in Toronto, and definitely worth your time. It is the perfect place to find Christmas foods or shop for local souvenirs for the holidays.
Location: 92-95 Front St East
More Info: http://www.stlawrencemarket.com/events
Book a Winter Photoshoot!
Did you know there is an easy way to book a local photographer in Toronto this December? Just look up and book a photo shoot online! If you use the code LINDSAY you will get $25 off your booking as well! Click here to search and book a photographer that fits your schedule!
The Nutcracker By The National Ballet of Canada
Ballet companies all over the world perform The Nutcracker during the holiday season, each with a special take on Marius Petipa’s beloved classic. The National Ballet of Canada has one of the finest versions in James Kudelka’s staging from 1995, which opens at a Christmas Eve party in rural 19th century Russia. With non-stop dancing and magnificent sets and costumes from Santo Loquasto, with lighting by Jennifer Tipton, The Nutcracker is an unforgettable tribute to the imagination. If you have never seen a performance of the Nutcracker, put it on your list of things to do in Toronto this December!
Dates: Dec 10th – 31st
Location: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts 145 Queen Street West, Toronto
Buy Tickets: https://national.ballet.ca/Productions/The-Nutcracker
Window Wonderland at the Junction
Toronto’s magical Window Wonderland, a FREE immersive urban art walk, occurs at the Junction. Toronto’s magical Window Wonderland, presented by Isaan Der Authentic Thai Kitchen,a FREE immersive urban art walk, is returning to the Junction for its third consecutive year. From November 25, 2022 to January 1, 2023, The award-winning Window Wonderland exhibition will transform the Junction into an interactive, outdoor gallery featuring unique augmented reality (AR) installations by local and international artists
Dates: Nov 25th 2022 to Jan 1st 2023
More Info: https://torontojunction.ca/window-wonderland-2022
Black Creek Pioneer Village December Events in Toronto
Stroll along the Village’s main street, alight with oil-lamps, crackling bonfires, and the twinkling of Christmas lights in the trees. Discover the heartwarming cheer of yesteryear.
Cozy up to some ghost stories by a roaring bonfire, learn about dashing through the snow on a crisp winter day, enjoy cheerful parlour games, tap your toes to a Victorian dance, and more!
Dates: 2022 info TBD
Location: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway
More Info: https://blackcreek.ca/
Casa Loma in Toronto in December
Every December in Toronto, experience the magic of the season at Casa Loma’s Christmas at the Castle. Visitors will be surrounded by magic throughout the castle interior, resplendent with festive décor including a 40ft tall tree in the Great Hall, and a stunning collection of other signature holiday trees decorated by renowned Canadian designers. Younger guests will thrill to visit Santa in his castle workshop, visit with holiday mascots, and explore the light displays and live shows in the upper Gardens.
Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
More Info: https://casaloma.ca/project/christmas-at-the-castle/
Go Ice Skating in Toronto in December
There are several locations to go Ice skating in Toronto in December. Choose from: TheNatrel Rink at the Harbourfront Centre, Nathan Phillips Square, High Park, Greenwood Park, and Christie Pits Park.
Where to Stay in Toronto in December
Best Luxury: St Regis offers a short walk to Yonge Street and Entertainment district.
Mid-Range: Sheraton Centre has city views and an indoor/outdoor pool.
Best for Families and Travelers on a Budget: Chelsea Hotel is fun for families and perfect price wise for budget conscious travelers.
RELATED READING: If you are visiting other parts of Canada, check out things to do in Vancouver in December, things to do in Victoria at Christmas, things to do in Whistler at Christmas.
Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!