Wondering what to do in Toronto this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
As evidenced by the twinkling lights, innovative holiday-themed window displays, and festive music, holiday season is in full force in Toronto as we enter the first weekend of December.
From dreamy winter wonderlands and holiday-themed bars to jam-packed vintage shows, it’s pretty much impossible to run out of things to do in the city in the coming days (and all month long, frankly).
Here’s what to do in Toronto this weekend…
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.
Pick Out a Christmas Tree at an Innovative Market
Toronto’s shipping container marketplace, Stackt Market, has transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with eats, drinks, and a Ferris wheel. Here, all weekend long, visitors to the Jameson Tree Lot event can warm up with holiday cocktails, enjoy live music, and purchase a tree to take home to trim. Find more info here.
Take in an Intense Pokémon Competition
For the (very) niche market who’s interested, the 2023 Pokémon Regional Championships are coming to Toronto this weekend. Pokémon Trading Card Game and video game players from across the nation will compete at the Enercare Centre for up to $50,000 in scholarships and prizes. Find more info here.
Shop a Canadian Designer’s Expertly Curated Fashion Bazaar
Beloved Canadian designer Hilary MacMillan has launched her first-ever holiday bazaar in Yorkville (131 Bloor Street). Offering premium gifting opportunities, the space features a well-curated assortment of international and Canadian products -- from bedding to jewellery. Find more info here.
Get Immersed in an Innovative (and Free) Public Art Show
Fashion Art Toronto programmed virtual fashion weeks to boost the creative community and provide a platform for local creators. A year later, as co-programmers for TIFF’s Make It Fashion film series; Fashion Art Toronto and TIFF cinematheque celebrate those same creators in a multisensory exhibition of runway shows, fashion presentations, performances, and art. Find more info here.
LOL in Second City’s New Home
Take in the latest mainstage at Second City’s brand-new home, a state-of-the-art comedy complex. In The Second City’s Home Sweet New Home, top Toronto talent hilariously take on everything from awkward first dates to game nights gone wrong to gender reveals to the multiverse. Find more info here.
Indulge in Photo Ops at the Netflix Holiday House
Now until Sunday, Netflix Canada invites guests to escape the chill at the inaugural Netflix Canada Holiday House. Held at the historic Campbell House, the space features a festive world of warmth and wonder, with Instagrammable moments, TikTok-ready spaces, sweet treats, and crafts. Find more info here.
Discover Unique Vintage Finds
For lovers of vintage clothing and antique, the Holiday Vintage Show is packed with unique finds from over 35 of the GTA’s best vendors, offering one-of-a-kind gifts. Held at the Parkdale Hall, the event will attract an eclectic set in the market for everything from leather jackets to home décor. Find more info here.
Step into a World of Festivities at Distillery Winter Village
Once again, the historic Distillery District is transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the holiday season. The sprawling grounds is glittering with lights and houses picture-perfect holiday vendor and food cabins filled with seasonal items, gifts, and festive treats. Find more info here.
Check Out a Feel-Good Musical
Be among the first to experience Mirvish’s latest production, Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical at its opening day on Sunday. Based on the true story of the chart-topping Cornish singing sensations and their hit 2019 film, Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical is a feel-good play about friendship that promises to tell the story of “the world’s most unlikely buoy-band.” Find more info here.
Meet Local Artisans at the One of a Kind Winter Show
The One of a Kind Show rolls into its second week of filling the Enercare Centre with a varied assortment of vendors and craftspeople. Here, guests can get up close and personal with over 600 creators, as they shop everything from art and photography, to baby items and gourmet pantry staples. 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, which kicked off yesterday. 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.
