The Distillery Winter Village (Toronto Christmas Market) 2024-2025

The Distillery Winter Village offers a charming holiday experience where families can stroll cobblestone streets lined with festive lights and shop from local craftspeople and unique vendors. Known for its impressive Christmas tree in Trinity Square, the Toronto Christmas Market is the city's largest and most beloved holiday market, celebrated by Fodor's Travel as one of the best in the world. Visitors can enjoy hand-crafted ornaments, festive carolers, a nostalgic carousel, and delicious foods like schnitzels. With breathtaking light displays, over 350 stage performances, and a beer garden, the Winter Village is a must-visit festive destination.

Tree Lighting Ceremony (November 13, 2024)

The Tree Lighting Ceremony is a highlight of the Winter Village experience. Starting from 10 am, the Distillery District's shops and restaurants are open, while the Winter Village outdoor shopping and food vendors kick off at 4 pm. From 4 to 6 pm, enjoy live entertainment by Mo Guzman, followed by the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 pm. Shortly after, the McGregor Carollers lead the first-holiday song of the season at 6:15 pm. For families, Santa will be available to meet and create magical moments. Visitors can also explore the Winter Village Cabins, offering a selection of crafts, food, and unique gifts from local artisans.

The Distillery Winter Village Attractions

As the festive season kicks off, children have the delightful opportunity to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishlists while capturing a photo together. Santa is available at his residence on weekdays from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm and on weekends from 12:30 pm to 8:30 pm. He also makes a special stage appearance at the Pure Spirits Courtyard at 5:30 pm. Don’t forget to wave hello to the merry band of elves roaming the cobblestone streets, adding to the festive spirit. For a unique experience, visitors can explore the Distillery Winter Village with Go Tours Canada, choosing between walking or Segway tours.

The Distillery Winter Village offers various photo opportunities, including the enchanting illuminated "Heart of Christmas," the iconic "Countdown to Christmas" sign, the whimsical Candy Cane Forest on Gristmill Lane, Santa's Tower of Toys on the Pure Spirits Patio, and charming 3-D, life-sized greeting cards. Live entertainment features an array of performances by local artists, including the Candy Cane Carolers, who lead sing-alongs and perform holiday classics. Lyrics are projected onto the Spirit of York building for guests' convenience.

Events at the Distillery Winter Village

The Distillery Winter Village is brimming with holiday cheer and exciting events. Visitors can experience the Illuminarium: Space Exploration Through the Galaxy!, where they can journey through vibrant nebulae and explore Saturn's rings for tickets starting at $34.50. From December 12 to 31, the Family Festival at Soulpepper Theatre features the beloved musical Alice in Wonderland and the world premiere of On A Night Like This, a concert blending classic carols with pop hits. Soulpepper also offers a cozy space to relax with festive décor, delicious hot chocolate or Bailey's Irish Coffee, and hearty samosa chaat from the Stage Door Café, along with free kids' activities and holiday movies.

Other Holiday Events in Toronto

Other Christmas events worth visiting include the Swedish Christmas Fair, a two-day celebration at the Harbourfront Centre that offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as craft making, carol singing, and folk dancing. The Trinity Bellwoods Flea Christmas showcases over 75 artisans and vendors, making it a perfect stop for unique gifts. Lastly, the Evergreen Brick Works Winter Village features Ontario Etsy artisans selling one-of-a-kind holiday décor, gifts, and artwork, ensuring there's something special for everyone.

Open Hours

The Distillery Historic District shops, restaurants, and cafés open daily at 10 am, seven days a week. The outdoor shopping cabins and food vendors at the Distillery Winter Village will also be open each day starting at 10 am, Monday to Sunday, but will be closed on Christmas Day. Santa, elves, and carolers will be present at various times, with hours typically ranging from 1 pm to 9 pm.

Ticket Prices

Tickets are required from 4 pm onwards on specific dates: November 13th for the Tree Lighting Ceremony (with proceeds going to charity) and from November 14th to Sunday, as well as daily from December 12th to 31st. For the upcoming events, children aged nine and under can enter for free. General admission is priced at $15, while a flex ticket, which allows for date changes at no additional fee, costs $18. For those looking for quicker entry, express gate access is available for $30. There is also a combo ticket for $45, which includes admission to the Illuminarium and access to the Winter Village.