🎄 15 Events Happening in Toronto & the GTA This December (2025 Edition)

A curated guide by Charissa Realty — helping newcomers and families thrive in their new community.

1. Distillery Winter Village (Toronto)

Toronto’s most iconic Christmas market with glowing lights, artisan vendors, festive food, and a massive Christmas tree. Perfect for families and newcomers exploring their first Canadian winter.

2. Christmas at the Castle – Casa Loma

The historic castle transforms into a winter wonderland with enchanted décor, performances, and a stunning holiday light trail.

3. Winterfest at Harbourfront Centre

An outdoor celebration with skating, winter markets, live music, and a family-friendly winter maze along Toronto’s waterfront.

4. The Nutcracker – National Ballet of Canada

A Toronto tradition. Beautiful, magical, and a perfect holiday experience for adults and children alike.

5. Toronto Christmas Market at City Hall (Nathan Phillips Square)

Skating, lights, vendors, and the official Toronto Christmas tree. Free, festive, and easy to access for newcomers.

6. Glow Christmas (Mississauga)

A massive indoor light festival with tunnels, displays, and themed zones — perfect for families with young children.

7. Cavalcade of Lights (Toronto)

Live performances, fireworks, skating shows, and the annual tree lighting ceremony at Nathan Phillips Square.

8. Holiday Nights of Lights (Vaughan)

A drive-through or walk-through light experience with synchronized music — great for stress-free family nights.

9. Winter Wonders at Royal Botanical Gardens (Burlington)

A peaceful outdoor light exhibit through the Hendrie Park gardens — perfect for date nights or reflective walks.

10. Shrek the Musical – Young People’s Theatre (Toronto)

Family-friendly theatre production with music, humor, and fun — great for kids and school holiday outings.

11. Holiday Fair in the Square (North York – Mel Lastman Square)

A mix of a Christmas market + carnival rides + skating + food trucks. Festive, lively, and newcomer-friendly.

12. Brampton Winter Lights Festival

Free light displays, cultural performances, and community vendors in Brampton’s Garden Square.

13. Toronto Zoo Holiday Marketplace

Local artisans and festive treats set against the backdrop of the zoo — great for families with kids.

14. Skating at Evergreen Brick Works

An outdoor skating trail tucked in nature — peaceful, unique, and a refreshing escape from the city.

15. Holiday Opera or Concert (Toronto Symphony Orchestra)

From “Holiday Pops” to festive classical concerts, TSO offers refined, inspiring experiences — perfect for adults looking for something elevated.

With love, 

Sade.

Charissa Realty