It’s the last weekend before we’re officially in holiday mode.  

And that only means one thing: it’s time to take advantage of Toronto in all of its festive glory -- from holiday-themed pop-up bars to an iconic ballet and a nostalgic musical.  

Here’s what to do in Toronto this weekend… 

Take in the Sounds of the Symphony 
A holiday tradition for many symphony-goers, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra performs Handel's uplifting Messiah this weekend, which traces the life of Jesus Christ. It was composed in three weeks but has endured for over 275 years. Find more info here.

Explore a Winter Wonderland of a Marketplace 
On Sunday (11am-9pm), the historic Evergreen Brick Works will welcome visitors for a festive affair at Evergreen’s Winter Market, where they can shop local vendors, indulge in delicious eats and drinks, listen to live music, and skate on the outdoor rink. Come evening, guests can enjoy a chamber concert performance inspired by the music of Scotland. Find more info here. 

Soak in the Nostalgia of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 
The beloved musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat -- a smash-hit in the 90s -- returns to Toronto. The brand new production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical made its North American premiere at the Princess of Wales Theatre on Sunday. Find more info here.

Lace Up Your Skates at The Bentway
Skate under an urban highway at The Bentway. The popular skate trail officially opens for the season on Saturday. The 22-metre figure-eight skate trail weaves its way through the underbelly of the Gardiner Expressway. A bar features hot chocolate and treats. Find more info here.

Make New Traditions at The Nutcracker Ballet
As a true sign of the season, the always magical Nutcracker ballet returns to Toronto. The National Ballet of Canada offers one of the finest takes on Marius Petipa’s beloved classic in James Kudelka’s staging from 1995. Find more info here.

what to do toronto this weekendSoulpepper

Catch an Uplifting and Powerful Musical
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, TO Live and Soulpepper present ‘da Kink in My Hair by Trey Anthony. The smash hit play inspired the television series and speaks to the triumphs and challenges of contemporary Black women. Find more info here.

Hit Harbourfront for a Cool Festival 
Harbourfront’s 10-day annual Festival of Cool continues this weekend. The mix of free and ticketed, indoor and outdoor events includes everything from the live action stage play Moby Dick, to a reimagined art auction where money isn’t the only currency, and an art-filled outdoor sauna. Find more info here

Get Lost in a Magical Winter Wonderland at Casa Loma  
One of the most magical spots in the city becomes even more so during the holidays. Casa Loma is now officially decked out for the season in all the colourful lights your heart could desire. Guests are invited to stroll through the castle grounds and take in the festive lights, performances, and carolers. Find more info here.

Sip Over-the-Top Cocktails at The Thirsty Elf 
Shamelessly rock your best ugly holiday sweater and step inside the festive Thirsty Elf pop-up bar at the iconic Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Here, you can immerse yourself in festive décor and drink holiday-themed — and completely social media-worthy — cocktails as you toast the season. Find more info here.

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