Short answer for what to do in Toronto in December: Visit the Distillery District Christmas Market, skate at the Nathan Phillips Square, admire the holiday lights at Casa Loma, attend a Nutcracker ballet performance, and explore festive exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum.
Planning Your Perfect Holiday Activities: How to Experience the Best of Toronto in December
As the festive season approaches, Toronto transforms into a winter wonderland. This bustling city is filled with activities, events, tours and many things to do that will keep you engaged and entertained through the holidays. To make your visit memorable this year, we have put together a list of fun-filled activities that will offer you a chance to experience the best of Toronto in December.
Watch a Classic Christmas Flick: Hollywood glitzes up the chilly month with an annual holiday tradition at TIFF Bell Lightbox. It features an eclectic mix of Christmas classics like Elf and an all-time favorite- “It’s A Wonderful Life” which will provide you with a dose of nostalgia from the good old days.
Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square: Skating at one of Canada’s best-loved rinks is a must-do activity on our list! Go skating at night when the twinkling lights overhead transport you to another world entirely. With insurance included on all equipment rentals, this affordable family-fun activity offers endless opportunity for laughter.
The Toronto Christmas Market: The famous Distillery District hosts one of Canada’s most spectacular annual festivities during December – The Toronto Christmas Market! Here you can browse over 100 vendors for hand-made artisanal gifts while sipping on warm gingerbread-flavored coffee made fresh daily. Be swept away in charming light displays as carolers serenade visitors through cobblestone streets decked out in traditional Bavarian dress generating that authentic European vibe!
Visit Casa Loma Castle: Contrary to popular belief, New York isn’t the only city where noteworthy castles exist. Consider exploring stunning medieval architecture by visiting Casa Loma located right here in our Canadian backyard! During The Holidays watch as every inch of this grand structure sparkles under thousands of colorful fairy-lights festooned throughout its elaborate intermingled rooms.
Take A Holiday Walking Tour With A Twist: You may expect typical tours along well-trodden traditional routes, but that’s not the case with “The Naughty Tour.” This excursion leads holidaygoers on a fascinating historic journey through old fashioned brothels and red-light districts of the Victorian Era. Discover hidden secrets of Toronto’s bygone days with entertaining guides providing insight into infamous sex-workers’ lives in Toronto spanning over a century ago.
Holiday Cocktail Crawl: Downtown venues aren’t just about coffee and cocoa, although that’s great too! Christmas cheer flows freely with highly celebrated cocktail creations at many popular watering holes frequented by both locals and tourists alike. Savor sizzling hot toddies alongside warm spiced rum cider as you move from bar to bar discovering new places to relax indoors amongst public spaces lit up with ornaments and flashing lights.
Christmas shopping on Queen Street West: With all shopping options available there is no better way to up your gift game than to shop till you can’t anymore along famous streets like Queen West. Find special wardrobe pieces, stellar home decor for hosting festive gatherings during this end-of-year season! While there are so many activities and sights you
Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do in Toronto During the Festive Season
The festive season is finally upon us, and there’s no better place to get into the holiday spirit than Toronto! Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor to the city, we’ve got you covered with our step-by-step guide on what to do in Toronto during this special time of year.
Step 1: Bundle up!
With temperatures dropping rapidly, it’s important to stay warm and cozy while exploring the city. Make sure to bundle up with layers of clothing, a warm coat, scarf, hat and gloves. Don’t forget your boots too – it can snow any time!
Step 2: Visit the Christmas Market
Get immersed in the festive vibe by visiting the Toronto Christmas Market at the Distillery District. It’s free entry during weekdays and just $8 on weekends per person. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with vendors selling everything from homemade gifts to hot cocoa and mulled wine. Listen to music performances by carolers singing holiday hits! You can also take pictures beside giant Christmas trees or even ride horse-drawn carriage rides if you want!
Step 3: Warm up inside unique cafes
After roaming around outside in crisp air immerse yourself in some of Toronto’s most unique cafes where steaming cups of coffee will warm you up promptly. Consider going to The Mad Bean Coffee House at Bloor Street West which offers fantastic gourmet coffee drinks made from ethically sourced beans served amidst cozy eclectic decor.
Step 4: Ice Skating under twinkling lights
Bring out fun side by grabbing your friends’ hands & taking each other around town through some festive ice-skating at Nathan Phillips Square right below the iconic “Toronto” sign placed amongst beautiful twinkling tree light displays among numerous others. From December till February every year this place turns out magical like snow globes.
Step 5: Explore Casa Loma
Swap outdoor activities for indoor exploring within Toronto’s enchanting castle, Casa Loma. A fairytale-like castle nestled atop a hill amidst wooded gardens, this magical place is fantastic architectural design of 1914 and serves its visitors with numerous art pieces, galleries, constructed war tunnels later-a bowling alley and even a swimming pool inside! It has further been adorned to celebrate Christmas – Castle offers special Christmas-themed activities for kids on weekends during the festive season.
Step 6: Light up Dundas Square
Get ready to swing into bliss as you take in the cheerful upbeat vibe at Toronto’s very own Times Square – here it’s called Dundas Square…See vibrant lit Christmas tree while being amidst delighting train of carollers. Get wrapped up in warmth with hot drinks and eats from one nearby pop-up stalls waiting to be devoured!
These steps should help you put together an unforgettable festive season trip to Toronto! From coffee shops and ice skating rinks to castles and markets, there’s something for everyone in this festive city. Happy Holidays and happy exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know About Enjoying Toronto in December
As the end of the year approaches, many people are looking forward to spending some time in Toronto. Whether you’re visiting for the holidays or planning a winter getaway, there’s no shortage of fun activities and sights to enjoy in this vibrant city.
In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions tourists have about visiting Toronto in December. From what to pack to how to navigate the city’s transit system, we’ve got everything you need to know to make your trip a success.
What should I wear during my visit?
Toronto gets pretty chilly in December, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. It’s important to dress warmly if you plan on spending any time outside. Layers are key – opt for a warm coat, hats and gloves, and comfortable boots with thick socks. Thermal underwear is also a good idea if you’re planning on being outdoors for extended periods of time.
How do I get around the city?
Toronto has an excellent public transportation system that makes it easy to get around without a car. The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) runs buses, streetcars, and subways throughout the city and surrounding areas. You can buy tokens or passes at TTC stations or online at ttc.ca.
If public transportation isn’t your thing, there are plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available as well.
What are some must-see attractions?
While there’s plenty to see and do in Toronto no matter what time of year it is, December offers some unique experiences that shouldn’t be missed. Here are just a few ideas:
1. Visit the Christmas Market: Located in the heart of downtown Toronto at the Distillery District historic site, this annual event features over 150 vendors selling holiday gifts and treats. Plus live music performances, beer gardens, fire pits and appearances from Santa Claus himself!
2. Enjoy festive light displays – illuminate your life! During late November till January 5th each year explore walk-through light exhibitions such as The Festival of Lights at the Toronto Zoo, The Distillery Historical District’s various installations or Nathan Phillips Square winter light display including the gigantic Christmas Tree or Skate in the heart of downtown.
3. Catch a show – historic theatres and stunning performance venues open their doors for an array of seasonal shows – from classic ballet performances such as Nutcracker to larger Broadway-inspired productions.
4. Head out for a skating session – Experience rinks all over Toronto, especially free public spaces located in Harbourfront Centre, The Bentway and Woodbine Park
What are some great dining spots?
Toronto is known for its diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re looking for upscale restaurants or casual eateries, there’s something to suit every taste bud. Some popular spots include:
1. Canoe Restaurant: Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, Canoe offers stunning views of the city skyline along with exceptional Canadian cuisine.
2. Bar Buca: This Italian cafe-style spot serves up delicious sandwiches and pasta dishes alongside freshly brewed coffee and cocktails.
3