Dec 1510 min read

Top Things To Do In Toronto This Month - December 2024

Updated: 6 days ago

December in Toronto is a vibrant time filled with festive celebrations, cultural experiences, and community gatherings that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. Here are some top and must-attend events and things to do in Toronto for December 2024, complete with details on location, age group, dates, and times:

Top Things To Do In Toronto This Month - December 2024

1. Winter Glow at Sankofa Square (Dundas Square)

Celebrate the season with beautiful light displays and community activities at Sankofa Square. This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Website: Winter Glow
Location: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 22
Time:
- Monday to Friday: 4 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: Noon to 10 PM

2. Winter Market at St. Lawrence Market

Explore a winter wonderland of local vendors offering seasonal goods, crafts, and delicious food. This market is ideal for those looking to support local artisans and enjoy holiday flavors.

Website: Winter Market at St. Lawrence Market
Location: St. Lawrence Market
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 23
Time:
- Thurs & Fri: 12PM to 7PM
- Sat & Sun: 10AM to 5PM
- Mon Dec 23: 10AM to 4PM

3. Holiday Fair in the Square

Experience a magical holiday market filled with artisan vendors, festive food, and live entertainment. This fair is a great place to shop for unique gifts and enjoy seasonal treats with loved ones.

Website: Holiday Fair in the Square
Location: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 23
Time:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Sunday - 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm

4. Daily Tree Light and Snow Shows

Witness the stunning daily lighting of the giant Christmas tree accompanied by enchanting snow shows. This event creates a festive atmosphere perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts.

Website: Daily Tree Light and Snow Shows
Location: CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St, Toronto)
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 31
Time: 10 AM – 9:30 PM

5. Cavalcade of Lights

Celebrate the holiday season with a dazzling display of lights, live music, and festive activities. This annual event is a highlight of Toronto's winter festivities, drawing crowds from all over.

Website: Cavalcade of Lights
Location: Nathan Phillips Square
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 7, 2025
Time: Until 10 PM

6. Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience

Step into a prehistoric world with life-sized dinosaur exhibits and interactive experiences. This immersive event is perfect for families and dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.

Website: Dinos Alive
Location: 30 Hanover Road, North York
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 31
Time:
- Mondays: From 9:00 to 19:30
- Wednesdays and Thursdays: From 10:00 to 18:30
- Tuesdays: Closed
- Fridays: From 10:00 to 19:30
- Saturdays: From 9:00 to 19:30
- Sundays: From 9:00 to 19:30

7. Holiday! An Improvised Musical

Experience a unique holiday musical created on the spot by talented improvisers.

Website: Holiday! An Improvised Musical
Location: Various theaters
Age Group: 13+
Date: December 11 – 21
Time:
- Dec 14 - 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
- Dec 18 - 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
- Dec 19 - 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
- Dec 20 - 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
- Dec 21 - 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM / 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

8. The Wizard of Oz: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical

Details: Join Dorothy and her friends on a magical journey through Oz in this family-friendly musical adaptation. Perfect for children and adults alike, it’s a delightful holiday treat.

Website: The Wizard of Oz
Location: The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre (189 Yonge Street, Toronto)
Admission: For a fee
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 5, 2025

9. Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic 2024

Experience the charm of Yorkville with stunning light displays, live music, and festive activities. This event is perfect for holiday shopping and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Website: Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Location: Bloor-Yorkville Village
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 31
Time - Traditional Carolers:
- Dec. 6,7,8
- Dec. 13,14,15
- Dec. 20,21,22
- Dec. 23
- Fridays: 12 Noon – 3 pm
- Saturday & Sunday: 1 pm – 4 pm

10. Winterfest Toronto

Celebrate winter with a series of events including ice skating, holiday markets, and live performances. This festival offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit this season.

Website: Winterfest Toronto
Location: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 5, 2025
Time:
- Every Friday (6 pm - 9 PM)
- Every Saturday (4 pm - 9 PM)
- Every Sunday (4 pm - 8 PM)

11. Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD

Enjoy a winter wonderland at Union Station with festive activities, food vendors, and live entertainment. This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Website: Union Winter
Location: Union Station
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until February 2
Time: Starts at 11 AM

12. Distillery Winter Village

Wander through a charming village filled with artisan shops, festive lights, and seasonal treats. This picturesque setting is ideal for holiday shopping and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Website: Distillery Winter Village
Location: Distillery District
Admission: Tickets are required on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 pm, and between December 12-31 after 4:00 pm. Kids 9 and under are FREE of charge.
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until January 5, 2025
Time:
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m. (noon) to 9:00 p.m.
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 p.m. (noon) to 10:00 p.m.

13. Holiday Hills

Experience a winter wonderland at Holiday Hills, featuring festive lights, holiday activities, and seasonal treats. Perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the holiday spirit together in a magical setting.

Website: Holiday Hills
Location: 123 Holiday Lane, Toronto
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 29
Time: 12 PM – 11 PM

14. Cirque Du Soleil – Twas The Night Before

Experience the magic of Cirque Du Soleil's "Twas The Night Before," a breathtaking holiday-themed performance filled with acrobatics and stunning visuals. A must-see for families and fans of live entertainment.

Website: Cirque Du Soleil
Location: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
Age Group: All ages
Date: December 12 – January 3, 2025
Time: Various showtimes

15. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Join Charlie on his magical adventure in this delightful musical adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic story. A perfect family outing for the holiday season.

Website: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Location: Various theaters
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 30

16. National Ballet of Canada: The Nutcracker

Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet, featuring stunning choreography and beautiful sets. This holiday classic is a must-see for ballet lovers and families alike.

Website: The Nutcracker
Location: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until December 31

17. FHPZ Holiday Tree

Visit the beautifully decorated holiday tree, a symbol of community spirit and celebration. This festive installation is perfect for family photos and holiday cheer.

Website: FHPZ Holiday Tree
Location: 873 Bloor Street West
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until January 4, 2025
Time: All day

18. Holiday Nights of Lights

Details: Enjoy a spectacular display of holiday lights that illuminate the night sky. This event is perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy the festive season together.

Website: Holiday Nights of Lights
Location: Upper Canada Mall | 17600 Yonge St. Newmarket, ON
Admission: For a fee
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 4, 2025
Time: 5 PM – 10 PM

19. Naughty, Nice, & Undecided

This festive event features a series of interactive installations and performances that explore the themes of holiday cheer and mischief. Perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the season together.

Website: Naughty, Nice, & Undecided
Location: The Second City (The Second City, 110 Harbour St, Toronto)
Admission: For a fee
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 31
Time: Varies by venue

20. Casa Loma Holiday Lights Tour

Explore the stunning holiday light displays at Casa Loma, transforming the historic castle into a winter wonderland. A magical experience for visitors of all ages.

Website: Casa Loma Holiday Lights
Location: Casa Loma
Admission: For a fee
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 4, 2025
Time: 5 PM – 10 PM

21. AGO Holiday Afternoon Tea

Enjoy a festive afternoon tea experience at the AGO, featuring seasonal treats and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the holidays together.

Website: AGO Holiday Afternoon Tea
Location: Art Gallery of Ontario
Age Group: All ages
Date: Until January 19, 2025, every Thursday-Sunday
Time: Slots available: 11:30am, 12:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00pm

22. Toronto Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops

Celebrate the season with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops concert, featuring festive music and special guests. A delightful experience for music lovers and families alike.

Website: Holiday Pops
Location: Roy Thomson Hall
Admission: For a fee
Age Group: All ages
Date: December 10-12
Time: 8 PM - 10 PM

23. Marc Rebillet – We Outside Tour

Join Marc Rebillet for an unforgettable live performance filled with improvisation and audience interaction. This concert is perfect for adults looking for a unique night out.

Website: Marc Rebillet Tour
Location: The Concert Hall at Toronto Masonic Temple (888 Yonge St, Toronto)
Age Group: 19+
Date: December 9 – 12
Time: 8 PM

24. New Vistas Art Exhibition

Explore contemporary art at the New Vistas exhibition, showcasing innovative works from local and international artists. A great outing for art enthusiasts and families.

Website: New Vistas Exhibition
Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until January 14
Time: Check Website

25. Holiday at The Well

Experience a festive atmosphere at The Well with holiday markets, entertainment, and seasonal activities. Perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate together.

Website: Holiday at The Well
Location: The Well (486 Front St W, Toronto)
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 31, Wednesday to Sunday
Time: Check Website

26. Festive Lights Double-Decker Bus Tour

Enjoy a magical tour of Toronto's holiday lights from the comfort of a double-decker bus. A fun and festive experience for families and tourists alike.

Website: Festive Lights Tour
Location: The tour starts from Stop 1 on our hop-on hop-off route at Yonge-Dundas Square.
Admission: For a fee
Duration: The tour lasts 75 - 90 minutes
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until December 30
Time: 6 PM and 8 PM

27. Window Wonderland

Stroll through downtown Toronto to admire beautifully decorated storefronts and festive window displays. Featuring 20 spectacular augmented reality (AR) window installations and ten murals, all designed by local and international artists. simply download the Artivive app, point their smartphones at the artwork on the windows and wall murals, and voila – watch the artist’s creation come to life!

Website: Window Wonderland
Location: Downtown Toronto, The Junction neighbourhood
Admission: Free
Age Group: All ages
Date: Ongoing until January 31
Time: All day

28. Ginger's Cocktail Bar Pop-Up

Indulge in festive cocktails and seasonal drinks at this cozy pop-up bar. Ginger's offers a unique holiday atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening.

Website: Ginger's Cocktail Bar
Location: 1000 Queen St W, Toronto
Age Group: 19+
Date: Ongoing until December 24
Time: 6 PM – 12 AM

29. Holiday! An Improvised Musical

Experience the joy of the holidays through spontaneous musical performances in this improvised show. Perfect for adults looking for a fun and festive night out during the holiday season.

Website: Holiday! Musical
Location: Various locations in Toronto
Age Group: 13+
Date: December 11 – 21
Time: 8 PM

30. Holiday Movie Nights at the TIFF Bell Lightbox

Join TIFF for special holiday movie screenings featuring classic films and festive favorites. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the Lightbox while watching beloved holiday movies on the big screen. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the holiday spirit with friends and family. Check the schedule for specific films and times.

Date: November-December, 2024
Time: Various showtimes
Location: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King St W
Website: TIFF Bell Lightbox