Christmas Lights 2024-2025 in Toronto

Cold winters in Toronto are always compensated with lots of warm Christmas lights and festive decorations all over the city. The Christmas season gives you a chance to see Toronto sparkling and glowing like never before. The Toronto Christmas Market is undoubtedly the epicenter of all holiday activities and the city's brightest spot.

Toronto Christmas Market at the Distillery District (November 13, 2024–January 5, 2025)

The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto offers a festive holiday experience, featuring cobblestone streets lined with lights, local craftspeople, and unique vendors. Known for its iconic Christmas tree in Trinity Square, the market offers hand-crafted ornaments, live performances, and delicious food. Attractions include Santa meet-and-greets, photo spots, and a variety of live entertainment. Highlights include the Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 13, 2024, and events like the Illuminarium and Soulpepper Theatre's Family Festival. Toronto Christmas Market is open daily: from noon to 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and from noon to 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Note that tickets are required on specific dates. Admission ranges from $15 to $45, with children under nine entering for free.

Cavalcade of Lights Festival (November 30, 2024–January 7, 2025)

The Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square is a beloved Toronto tradition, kicking off the holiday season with dazzling displays and festivities. Since 1967, this glittering winter festival has brought holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike. The event is free to the public, and it begins with an unforgettable opening night on November 30, 2024, featuring the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, live performances by Canadian and international artists, and an awe-inspiring fireworks display.

Visitors can skate under the twinkling lights at the illuminated rink, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy nightly ice skating for the entire holiday season. The square is transformed with over 525,000 LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere. From December 1 to January 7, 2025, the lights will stay on from 4 pm to 11 pm, providing a perfect backdrop for festive photos.

Annual Tree Lighting at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (November 13–December 31, 2024)

The CF Toronto Eaton Centre’s iconic Christmas tree is back, standing at an impressive 100 feet (30 m) tall, making it the largest in the city. Guests can look forward to a breathtaking countdown to the tree lighting, accompanied by a unique snowfall that will transform CF Winterville into a winter wonderland.

According to the organizers, daily tree lighting and snow shows will occur hourly from Monday to Saturday, 12 pm - 8 pm, and Sundays, 12 pm - 6 pm. With dazzling light displays, live music, Santa Claus's special appearance, and a festive atmosphere, this event is a must for kicking off the holiday season in Toronto.

Casa Loma: Christmas at the Castle (Select Dates December 5, 2024 – January 4, 2025)

Casa Loma’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a prime destination during the holidays. Originally completed in 1914, this 98-room mansion has served as a film location, wedding venue, and even a research facility during World War II. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, especially during the festive season. Its signature "Christmas at the Castle" event offers a festive experience perfect for the whole family.

Guests can enjoy the castle’s enchanting holiday décor, including a stunning 40-foot (12 m) tree in the Great Hall and beautifully designed signature trees by Canadian artists. Families can look forward to festive arts and crafts, visits with Santa in his workshop (daily until December 24), and charming holiday mascots. Admission is $45 per person, with free entry for children under three accompanied by a ticketed adult. Guests can also upgrade their experience to include the Holiday Lights evening display, available after 5:30 pm, for an additional fee.

Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic and the Fleurs de Villes NOËL(November 23, December 4-8, 2024)

Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a dazzling holiday destination, with twinkling lights, stunning window displays, and a crown jewel Christmas tree. The neighborhood’s annual "Holiday Magic" kicks off on November 23, 2024, with a lighting ceremony and live music by Rêve. Visitors can also explore the Fleurs de Villes NOËL floral trail from December 4-8, featuring over 30 festive floral installations, pop-up flower markets, and holiday carolers. The neighborhood is a magical mix of elegance and holiday cheer, both indoors and out.

Illuminite at Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is all dressed up and ready for the holidays! Yonge-Dundas’ magical tree lighting ceremony is one of the favorite holiday events during Illuminite, with live entertainment, a 360-degree panorama, and 52,000 LED Christmas tree.

Christmas Lights in Financial District

The Financial District also fully transforms with avant-garde displays at Brookfield Place and First Canadian Place. Enjoy decorated trees by the Commerce Court making your way to the TD Centre, with two massive Christmas trees.