7 Magical Ways To Spend Christmas In Toronto

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and Toronto is a fantastic place to experience the holiday season. From festive markets to icy skating rinks, there are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit in this vibrant city. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are 7 magical ways to spend Christmas in Toronto.

Toronto is a city that comes alive during the holiday season. The streets are decorated with lights and decorations, and the air is filled with the sound of carolers and the smell of hot chocolate. From the iconic Christmas tree in Nathan Phillips Square to the festive window displays along Yonge Street, there's no shortage of holiday cheer in Toronto.

For many people, Christmas is a time for family and friends. And what better way to spend time with loved ones than by doing something fun and festive together? From ice skating and sledding to visiting Santa's workshop and taking a horse-drawn carriage ride, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Toronto during the holiday season.

Magical Way 1: Visit the Toronto Christmas Market

The Toronto Christmas Market is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. This annual market features over 300 vendors selling everything from handmade crafts and decorations to gourmet foods and drinks. Visitors can browse the stalls, sample local delicacies, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

What to Expect at the Toronto Christmas Market

• Over 300 vendors selling handmade crafts, decorations, and gourmet foods
• Festive atmosphere with live music and carolers
• Delicious food and drink options, including mulled wine and hot chocolate
• Unique gift ideas for friends and family

Magical Way 2: Ice Skate at Nathan Phillips Square

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and Nathan Phillips Square is one of the best places to do it in Toronto. The outdoor rink is open from late November to February, and admission is free. Visitors can rent skates and enjoy the festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and holiday music.

Tips for Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

• Admission is free, but skate rentals are available for a fee
• The rink is open from late November to February, weather permitting
• Visitors can enjoy hot chocolate and snacks from on-site vendors

Magical Way 3: Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

There's something magical about taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Toronto. Visitors can snuggle up under a blanket and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city during the holiday season. Many carriage companies offer special holiday tours, complete with festive decorations and hot chocolate.

What to Expect on a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

• A festive and romantic way to see the city
• Many carriage companies offer special holiday tours and decorations
• Visitors can snuggle up under a blanket and enjoy hot chocolate

Magical Way 4: Visit Santa's Workshop at the Fairmont Royal York

The Fairmont Royal York is a legendary hotel in Toronto, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. Visitors can visit Santa's Workshop, where they can meet the big man himself and enjoy festive activities and treats.

What to Expect at Santa's Workshop

• Meet Santa Claus and take a photo
• Enjoy festive activities and treats, including hot chocolate and cookies
• A fun and festive atmosphere for kids of all ages

Magical Way 5: Go Sledding at Riverdale Park

Sledding is a classic winter activity, and Riverdale Park is one of the best places to do it in Toronto. The park features a large hill that's perfect for sledding, and visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the city while they're there.

Tips for Sledding at Riverdale Park

• The hill is open for sledding from December to February, weather permitting
• Visitors can bring their own sleds or rent them on-site
• The park also features a skating rink and other winter activities

Magical Way 6: Take a Holiday Lights Tour

Toronto is a city that loves to decorate for the holiday season, and there's no better way to see the lights than on a guided tour. Visitors can take a bus or walking tour of the city's most festively decorated neighborhoods, complete with hot chocolate and holiday treats.

What to Expect on a Holiday Lights Tour

• A guided tour of Toronto's most festively decorated neighborhoods
• Hot chocolate and holiday treats are often included
• A fun and festive way to see the city's holiday lights

Magical Way 7: Attend a Holiday Concert or Show

Toronto is a city that loves to celebrate the holiday season with music and performance. Visitors can attend a holiday concert or show, featuring everything from classical music to comedy and theater.

What to Expect at a Holiday Concert or Show

• A festive and fun way to celebrate the holiday season
• Many concerts and shows feature local and international performers
• A great way to get into the holiday spirit

We hope these 7 magical ways to spend Christmas in Toronto have given you some ideas for things to do during the holiday season. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and festive city.