Toronto in Winter: 23 Things to Do in Toronto During Winter
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Are you visiting Toronto, or are you a resident and curious about all the fun and festive winter activities to do in the city every year? As Canada’s largest city, there is no shortage of winter activities to keep you entertained.
Toronto is a magical urban metropolis for snow, lights, and festivity in December and all of winter. We lived in Toronto and got to see this all firsthand. It is the city where we celebrated our first holiday season and winter in Canada after moving to the country. While the winters might seem harsh based on the weather reports, thankfully, we found plenty of things to keep us entertained.
Here is our local guide to Toronto in winter. This includes things to do in Toronto in winter, with weather and packing information, seasonal events, light fests, and more. Whether you are a tourist visiting for some of the Christmas cheer or a resident looking for something new and fun to beat the cold, we have something for you.
The City of Toronto is on the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples.
Quick Look: Top Winter Activities in Toronto
With so many amazing things to do in Toronto every winter, here is our short list of must-dos:
- Visit the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District for a cozy European-style Christmas market.
- Go Ice Skating at Harbourfront Centre Naturel Rink.
- Eat a holiday meal at the CN Tower for incredible views.
- Day trip to Niagara Falls in winter for snowy falls and an evening light show.
22 Things to Do in Toronto in Winter
Snow makes everything magical here in winter. And I’m even saying that after having experienced heavy snowfall, blizzards, and surviving –20 degrees Celsius. Toronto really comes together as a city to not only survive the cold, but to thrive.
1. Visit Toronto Christmas Markets in December
The Christmas markets in Toronto are inspired by the European Christkindlmarkt, aka Christmas markets of German origin. They come alive with festive cheer and that cozy European ambiance while offering the best local products.
Walking into these Christmas Markets, you’ll be greeted by candle scents, ornaments, food, and warm drinks that will immerse you in festive cheer! The best Christmas markets are:
- Distillery District Christmas Markets – November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027
- Nathan Philips Square Christmas Markets – December 4 to 23, 2026
- Kensington Market Winter + Christmas – November 26 to December 3, 2025 (2026 dates TBD). Special night for winter solstice every December 21st.
Distillery District Christmas Market
The most popular Christmas market is located at the historic Distillery District of Toronto. The old-world charm shines bright in this Christmas market. Come for carols, music and entertainment, vendors selling holiday goodies, food and more.
This is the coolest thing Toronto has to offer: a traditional Christmas Market with the historic buildings of the Distillery District bringing hints of Christmas past to the city.
Nathan Philips Square Christmas Markets
Nathan Philips Square is decked out like a European market in December as part of the Festive and Holiday Fair. The dates of the event are usually in the first week of December until the day before Christmas Eve.
As it is part of the Holiday Fair, you will find tons of other activities to keep you and the kids busy. You can shop and get ready with Christmas gifts, stop for lunch, ice skate, and end the day with dining (and drinks at the ice bar) at Nathan Phillips Square.
Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, and Chinatown also have Christmas markets set up for this time of the year.
2. Celebrate in a castle at Casa Loma’s A Nutcracker Christmas
Casa Loma is a 20th-century castle located in the heart of the city. During the festive season, Casa Loma is decked out with festive lights and charm. You can imagine how stunning the Gothic castle looks.
Stop by for photos and experience a memorable Christmas as you tour the castle hallways and underground cellar.
Visitors are invited to meet Santa in his castle workshop and participate in festive arts and crafts, enjoy shows by famed entertainers and ice skating performers.
A giant Christmas tree is set up at Casa Loma to ring in the festive season.
- Dates for this event: December (TBA for 2026)
- Entry fee: Included in the general admission $52 per adult
4. Evergreen Brickworks’ Winter Village
The Winter Village concept at Evergreen is similar to a Christmas Market, but you can expect tons of comfort food and more community spaces.
The Evergreen Brickworks’ Winter Village is a foodie heaven with street food vendors selling treats, mulled wine, craft beer, and eggnog. They actually have a Sipping container where you can sip some winter and festive drinks while relaxing by the fire.
- Dates for this event: Usually every weekend in December and the week between Christmas and New Year’s (no dates announced for 2026 yet. Check here)
- Hours: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Entry fee: Free, bring cash for food, drinks, and gifts.
6. Enjoy a holiday meal at the CN Tower
Toronto’s iconic landmark CN Tower lights up and welcomes guests for holiday dining and drinks at the LookOut. Dine with a view at the CN Tower and order a nice bottle of local red wine from one of Toronto’s best wine cellars. (Note: Closed on Christmas Day).
If you are looking for a place to host a Christmas Party, they can cater for groups of 16 or more people. Perfect for that holiday gathering with colleagues, friends, or family.
7. Take photos with Santa Claus at the biggest mall in Toronto
Head to the Yorkdale Mall in Toronto for holiday shopping and stop by to say hello and snap a photo with good ol’ Santa Claus.
There are Santa photo booths and stations in all of the malls in Toronto. My favorites are Eaton Center, Fairview Mall, and the Scarborough Town Center.
8. Celebrate Winter Solstice at the Kensington Market
December 21st is the longest night of the year, and the shortest day. Celebrate Winter Solstice in style in the heart of Kensington Market.
The entire market is transformed into a winter wonderland of sorts with glitter and Hanukkah candles.
Dress warm for the Winter Solstice Parade on December 21st. Explore Kensington Market on a walking tour here.
9. Go Ice skating at the Harbourfront Centre Rink
Fancy ice skating in Toronto? Head to the Harbourfront Centre Rink, the most popular outdoor skating rink in Toronto.
They are open 09:00 am to 10:00 pm, with equipment rental available on-site.
There are many outdoor ice rinks in the city. A majority of them will open on or after November 30th. Do check this year’s hours, as many were closed for the 2025/26 Toronto winter season.
10. Retail therapy on Boxing Day in Toronto
December 26th is a crazy-fun day for shoppers. Shopping malls open early, and they are filled with discount offers and holiday gifts that go on sale (right after Christmas). Get up early and line up to stock up on your favorite items.
For Boxing Day shopping, use Toronto Transit services rather than driving down to the mall, as parking is a hassle. Public transportation is efficient and easy to use in Toronto.
The following shopping malls have a transit center located in their vicinity/underground complex: Yorkdale, Eaton Center, Fairview and Scarborough Town Center.
11. Learn about Toronto’s history at the Fort York National Historic Site
Fort York Historic Site contains many hidden secrets about Toronto’s past. This site was the primary defensive position of early York (Toronto) once upon a time.
Today it is filled with historical remnants, including the seven buildings built between 1813 and 1815, which are examples of British military architecture in Canada.
During the month of December, the Fort York National Historic Site organizes many seasonal events. They are a great place to visit any time during winter, though.
12. Take a day trip to Niagara Falls and watch the evening lights show
Niagara Falls is located 1.5 hours away from Toronto. Embark on a day trip to Niagara Falls or take a tour to explore the frozen falls and experience the evening light show on the Niagara.
Read: Our complete guide to seeing Niagara Falls as a day trip from Toronto.
With this day tour to Niagara Falls via bus from Toronto, you can sit back, warm and toasty, and watch evening lights aglow on the falls. Check out this evening tour of Niagara Falls.
13. Enjoy outdoor winter activities
If you’re willing to venture a bit outside of Toronto, the Blue Mountain Resort is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Located less than three hours northwest of the city, the resort offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Don’t overlook the Toronto Islands in winter, either. While they’re a popular summer destination, in winter, they offer peaceful, snowy landscapes perfect for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Just make sure to check ferry schedules before setting off.
If you’re looking for something more low-key, consider a winter hike through one of Toronto’s scenic parks or conservation areas. The snowy landscapes offer a unique and serene setting for a peaceful walk. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try snowshoeing through the trails.
14. Enjoy the big city night lights at Yonge and Dundas
This is our favorite place in Toronto – Yonge and Dundas Square. This is a perfect place to wine and dine and go on a relaxed stroll after a satisfying meal.
The square is surrounded by live street performers, cafes and restaurants, and larger-than-life screens to keep the big city lights on! The energy is electric during the festive season.
15. New Year’s Eve on Nathan Phillips Square
Bid adieu to the year in style at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto on December 31st. This is a free event featuring tons of shows, including DJ, dance, and entertainment, and scintillating fireworks over the city of Toronto.
16. Toronto Light Festival
Don’t worry, if you are visiting Toronto after the holidays in January, there is still some cheer to be found. After the Christmas market at the Distillery District, the lights stay on into January.
At the Distillery District, enjoy the Toronto Light Festival – an event filled with lights and an amazing show in the dark. This fest will definitely get you to enjoy the winter!
This event takes place in mid-January and is free to attend. More information here!
Indoor Toronto Winter Activities
Here are some of the popular things to do in Toronto all year round, which are perfect to escape the cold in winter!
17. Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum of natural history and world cultures. With six million items in its collections, there’s plenty to see and learn about at the ROM.
The Museum is internationally recognized for its collection of dinosaurs and other fossils, as well as for its collections of Asian art and textiles. The museum also has an extensive Canadian art collection. In addition to its 40 galleries, the ROM also has a research centre, library, and archives
They are open year-round, including the holidays in December (except December 25 and 26).
The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions.
18. Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, and it’s right here in Toronto! With a collection spanning from 100 AD to the present day, there’s something for everyone at the AGO.
Visit for Impressionist art, interactive modern art, classic pieces, sculptures, and more!
19. Ontario Science Museum
The Ontario Science Museum has everything you need for a fully immersive and educational vacation experience. With interactive exhibits on everything from space exploration to animal behaviour, there’s something for everyone at the Science Museum (not just kids). This museum brings learning to life for adults and kids alike.
The Ontario Science Centre is one of the first interactive science museums in the world.
20. Bata Shoe Museum
The Bata Shoe Museum is unique in Toronto. And a cool stop for anyone who loves shoes!
The museum opened in 1995, and it houses over 15,000 shoe exhibits and thousands of years of footwear history from ancient Egyptian sandals to 20th-century sneakers.
There are Temporary Exhibits on display as well, which change over time. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s sure to be an exhibit that will pique your interest!
21. Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto
Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for any hockey fan. Founded in 1943, the Hall of Fame celebrates and preserves the history of hockey through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
You can explore interactive displays, view iconic memorabilia such as game-worn jerseys and Stanley Cup rings, and even test your skills in the game simulations. From legendary players to historic moments, the Hockey Hall of Fame offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for all ages.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Hall of Fame is the opportunity to see the Stanley Cup, hockey’s ultimate prize. The Hall of Fame also pays tribute to the women who have made significant contributions to the sport with its “Women’s Hockey Showcase” exhibit.
After exploring the exhibits, be sure to stop by the gift shop for some unique hockey-themed souvenirs and memorabilia.
Tickets for adults are $25 CAD (they are closed on December 25th).
22. CN Tower
No Toronto in winter list is complete without a stop at the CN Tower. Standing at a whopping 553.3 meters (1,815.4 feet) tall, it’s hard to miss!
But did you know that the CN Tower is more than just a pretty face? It is the unique engineering marvels and feats that make this tower one of the most badass structures in the world.
It is currently the 9th tallest free-standing structure in the world and the tallest in North America. The tower gets its name from Canadian National—the railway company that commissioned its construction.
There are observation decks, restaurants, and retail space inside! Ride the elevator to an indoor/outdoor SkyPod observation deck, and soak in the views of the harbourfront and nearby areas.
It is believed that the tower is struck by lightning 70-85 times every year… and counting!
23. See a Maple Leafs Game
Get tickets to see a home game of the Toronto Maple Leafs. This is the perfect winter indoor activity to see an NHL game. The crowds and ambiance make this a must-experience in Toronto this winter.
FAQ: Visiting Toronto in Winter and December
Is Toronto worth visiting in winter?
Toronto in winter is an amazing time to visit. The weather might be cold, but if you dress well and are mindful of the daily forecasts, you can travel and explore the city with ease.
There are so many free things to do in Toronto in December and beyond that are worth taking advantage of. Many of these events are seasonal, and you won’t see them at other times of the year.
Our transit systems and buildings are all heated, so you can ride the bad cold out and enjoy a warm cocoa and stay toasty while it snows outside.
Hotels in Toronto in December are reasonably priced. The holiday season is busy with festivities, but it is not a peak season in Toronto, so you can expect to get hotel bookings at a reasonable price.
Important Note: A lot of things are closed for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so keep that in mind as you plan your holidays around those days. You may want to avoid Christmas Day, or plan on a quiet day in your hotel room. But come December 26th, the shopping malls and online stores become busy with bargain shoppers!
Toronto also has many fine dining places for celebrating the holiday season and ringing in the New Year with friends, family, or your sweetheart.
What is the temperature like in Toronto in winter?
The winter season in Toronto is from late November to March. Toronto experiences snow throughout the winter.
- Days get shorter, darker, and colder.
- Average temperatures range from a low of -5°C to a high of 3°C, with cold snaps down to -7°C and warmer periods.
- Average winter snowfall: 108- 122 cm
There are chances of rain and snow throughout winter, so it is best to be prepared for rain or snow with waterproof and warm clothing, including hats, gloves, a jacket, and more.
We have included a packing list below for visiting Toronto in December.
What should I pack for winter in Toronto?
We have written a detailed guide on packing for Canada in winter, and it holds true for Toronto as well. Keep in mind that you can expect chilly days in Toronto with snowfall, slippery surfaces, and traffic congestion.
So, here are some of the essential items to pack for Toronto in December
- Winter Jacket: In colder weather, I own and wear the North Face Arctic Insulated Jacket. I also own the North Face 3-1 Eco Tri-Climate jacket for warmer winters. I also recommend the Patagonia 3-in-1.
- For the men: Patagonia 3-in-1 or North Face Parka.
- Layering Option: I would pair a jacket with a nano puff for women or men, and maybe keep a technical fleece for women or men on hand.
- Thermal Base Layers: Thin, non-bulky base layers for your top and bottom worn under your regular clothing are the best way to regulate temperature and stay warm outside for long periods.
- Warm Accessories: A warm scarf, hat/beanie, and waterproof/dexterous gloves are critical for staying warm and holding a mug of Glühwein
- Merino Wool Socks (Multiple Pairs): Invest in quality wool socks (like SmartWool) that wick moisture and provide necessary insulation, even when damp.
- Waterproof winter boots: You can choose stylish black ones, a more neutral color, or thermal waterproof Blundstones.
- Tops: Focus on 2-3 long-sleeve shirts and 1-2 sweaters/cardigans. I love a regenerative and cute sweater!
- Bottoms: Pack 2-3 pairs of warm pants (cords, twill, or jeans). Always pack thermal leggings underneath your pants or skirt to block wind and the bitter cold that creeps in after dark.
- Add a nice woolen sweater dress or a black dress for Christmas events or special dinners.
Where is the best place to stay in Toronto in winter?
For celebrating the festive season in Toronto, stay in the downtown area, so that commuting and sightseeing attractions are easily accessible. Within the downtown area in Toronto, you can choose a hotel in the Harbourfront area.
Other options include the Toronto Eaton Centre mall or the entertainment district.
Here are some recommended hotels for your visit.
Hotel Fairmont Royal York
If you are looking for a luxury stay in Toronto, then look no further. This 4-star hotel in downtown Toronto is calling you for a luxurious stay overlooking the tall buildings.
- Hotel Fairmont Royal York is conveniently located close to the CN Tower and other sightseeing attractions.
- Home to some of Toronto’s best bars and dining experiences.
- Canadian-owned hotel brand.
- The hotel rooms are stunning, and it has an indoor pool on site. Free breakfast.
Le Germain Toronto Hotels
My favorite Canadian brand of independent luxury hotels is Le Germain. These hotels are classy, sophisticated, and modern while delivering world-class Canadian hospitality. I book a Le Germain every chance I get. Toronto has two!
- Le Germain Maple Leaf Square is south of the tracks, perfectly located for access to the CN Tower, Waterfront, Toronto Islands, and Union Station.
- Le Germain Toronto. This downtown location is perfect for access to bars, restaurants, and Toronto’s walkable core.
Toronto Union Hotel
We’ve stayed at the Union Hotel before for a cozy, independent, and sustainable stay.
- Fantastic lounge area for relaxing by the fireplace, playing games, and sipping a drink from the in-house bar.
- 10/10 breakfast.
- Local, sustainable, and welcoming.
Hotel Victoria
A 3-star hotel that seals the deal with an awesome location and vintage room decor. The building dates from 1909.
- It is located 2-minutes (walk) away from King Station subway stop, a 7-minute walk from St. Lawrence Market, and 2 km from the landmark CN Tower.
- Good value for money. Free parking in downtown hotel. Free breakfast.
Comment and Share: Toronto Winter Activities
We hope you enjoyed this list of activities to do in Toronto in December. There are so many things to do during winter in Toronto, and after living here, we can say we are big fans of the cozy cheer of getting through a Canadian winter.
Remember to wear warm clothes, and you will be ready to embrace the winter with love!
What is your favorite winter activity in Toronto?
Exploring more of Canada this winter? Check out our winter guides for things to do in:
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