The Festive Delights: Top Things to Do During Christmas in Toronto
4 min read
Introduction: Setting the Scene for Christmas in Toronto
Christmas is a magical time of year that brings joy, warmth, and cheer to people all around the world. And there’s no better place to experience the festive spirit than in Toronto, Canada’s largest and most vibrant city.
As soon as December rolls around, the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland, with sparkling lights adorning every street, festive decorations hanging from buildings and storefronts, and the sweet aromas of holiday treats wafting through the air.
From traditional Christmas markets to dazzling light displays and cozy hot chocolate spots, Toronto has something to offer for everyone during this special time of year. So buckle up as we take you on a journey through some of the top things to do in Toronto during Christmas!
First things first – let’s talk about where it all begins: setting the scene for Christmas in Toronto. As soon as you step foot into this bustling metropolis, you’ll be greeted with a sense of excitement that can only be found during the holiday season.
Experience the Magic of Christmas Markets
Christmas is a magical time of year, and one of the most enchanting experiences during this season can be found at the many Christmas markets throughout Toronto. These markets are not only a great place to get into the holiday spirit, but also to find unique gifts, delicious food, and festive entertainment.
The Distillery District Christmas Market is one of the most popular in Toronto and for good reason. This historic pedestrian-only village transforms into a winter wonderland with charming cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights and decorations. The smell of freshly baked treats fills the air enticing visitors to sample traditional European snacks like mulled wine, schnitzel, and gingerbread cookies. Strolling through the market, you will also find local artisans selling their handcrafted goods such as pottery, jewelry, and artwork.
For those wanting an elevated shopping experience, head over to the One-of-a-Kind Christmas Show at Enercare Centre. This annual event showcases over 800 Canadian artists and designers offering everything from handmade clothing to home decor items. It’s the perfect place to find that special gift for someone on your list or treat yourself to some unique pieces.
But it’s not just about shopping at these markets – there are also plenty of fun activities for all ages. Take a ride on a ferris wheel or carousel at Nathan Phillips Square Holiday Fair in downtown Toronto while sipping on hot cocoa. Or lace up your skates at Evergreen Brick Works’ Winter Village and glide across their outdoor skating rink surrounded
Indulge in Festive Treats at Local Restaurants and Bakeries
The holiday season is a time for indulgence, and what better way to treat yourself than by sampling the festive treats offered by local restaurants and bakeries in Toronto? From traditional Christmas dishes to unique seasonal creations, there is no shortage of delectable options to satisfy your cravings. Here are some must-try places where you can indulge in delicious festive treats during your stay in Toronto.
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Stockpile Bakery
Known for their artisanal breads, mouth-watering pastries and desserts, Stockpile Bakery takes holiday baking to a whole new level. During the Christmas season, they offer an array of festive treats such as gingerbread cookies, fruitcake slices, and yule log cakes that are sure to bring joy to your taste buds.
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The Cheesecake Factory
For those craving a creamy and decadent dessert, head over to The Cheesecake Factory this holiday season. Their extensive menu offers a variety of cheesecake flavours including peppermint bark cheesecake, white chocolate raspberry truffle cheesecake, and pumpkin pecan cheesecake – all perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during Christmas.
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Rosewater Restaurant
For a fine dining experience with a festive touch, Rosewater Restaurant has got you covered. Their special Christmas menu features classic dishes such as roasted turkey with cranberry sauce and honey glazed ham served alongside seasonal sides like Brussels sprouts with pancetta and chestnuts. Finish off the meal with their signature eggnog crème brûlée for the ultimate indul
Take a Magical Lights Tour around the City
During the holiday season, one of the most enchanting ways to experience the spirit of Christmas is by taking a magical lights tour around the city of Toronto. This popular activity allows visitors and locals alike to bask in the beauty and charm of festive light displays while exploring some of the city’s top attractions.
One of the must-see destinations on a magical lights tour is the annual Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square. This iconic event has been a holiday tradition in Toronto for over 50 years and features dazzling light installations, live music performances, and a spectacular firework show. Visitors can also enjoy skating on the outdoor ice rink while surrounded by glittering lights and festive decorations.
Another highlight on any magical lights tour is a visit to Casa Loma, where every year, this majestic castle transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland. Guests can explore multiple rooms adorned with stunning holiday decor or take a stroll through its sprawling gardens, lit up with thousands of twinkling lights. The grandeur and elegance of Casa Loma make it a perfect setting for capturing Instagram-worthy photos during your light tour.
For animal lovers, no Christmas trip to Toronto is complete without stopping at the Toronto Zoo’s “Holiday Magic” event. For six weeks during December and January, visitors can follow The Animal Walk-through Tour adorned with delightful seasonal delights that showcase both traditional celebrations from around-the-world as well as fun twists on popular holiday icons seen through many cultures across Canada.
