December delights in Toronto

Celebrate the festive season with Toronto’s December events

By Shannon Delmarco

Emery Village residents looking to embrace the holiday spirit this December have a host of exciting events to choose from. Here’s a roundup of some must-visit attractions:

1. Distillery Winter Village (Toronto Christmas Market): Experience the charm of a traditional Christmas market with open-air stalls selling handmade crafts and treats at the historic Distillery District.

2. Holiday Hills at Stackt Market: Explore a unique marketplace transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring a Ferris wheel, live music, vendor markets, and workshops from mid-November to December 31st.

3. Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest: Enjoy magical performances, skating, tree lighting, and festive activities at Canada’s Wonderland, transforming into a winter wonderland on select nights until the end of December.

Nathan Phillips Square: Witness the Cavalcade of Lights and enjoy ice skating at this central hub of Toronto’s Christmas events.

4. Holiday Fair in the Square: Located at Mel Lastman Square from December 1st-23rd, this event combines a Christmas market with a winter carnival, complete with rides, games, and an ice rink.

5. Casa Loma’s Christmas Events: Don’t miss ‘Christmas at the Castle’ and ‘Holiday Lights Tour’ for a festive experience in Toronto’s iconic castle from December 2nd to January 2nd.

6. Candlelight Concerts: Enjoy classic holiday music by candlelight, with performances featuring jazz, R&B, and The Nutcracker.

7. Northern Lights: This immersive holiday experience at Exhibition Place, running from December 1st to January 8th, offers a feast for the senses with light installations, Christmas trees, and a holiday market.

8. Holiday Magic at Yorkville Village: Stroll through Yorkville Village to see beautiful light displays and 138 illuminated Christmas trees.

9. We Love Willowdale Christmas Market: Join the festive parade and market at Mel Lastman Square on November 25th, featuring local artisans, food trucks, and Santa Claus.

10. Weston Winterfest: Celebrate the winter solstice from November 24th-26th with ice sculptures, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.

11. One of a Kind Winter Show: Shop for unique gifts at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, featuring 800 artists and artisans from November 23rd to December 3rd.

12. Allan Gardens Winter Flower Show: Admire thousands of flowering plants and poinsettias in a festive setting at Allan Gardens, with special candlelight viewing on select evenings.

13. Christmas Themed Bars and Cocktail Lounges: Enjoy festive drinks at various pop-up Christmas-themed bars across the city, like Miracle on Bloor Street, The Thirsty Elf at the Fairmont Royal York, Java Jingle Holiday Bar, Mistletoes & Margaritas, and Project Gigglewater Holiday Bar.

14. Hudson’s Bay Holiday Windows: Experience a century-old tradition with augmented reality features at Hudson’s Bay on Queen Street West.

Each of these events offers Emery Village residents a chance to immerse themselves in the joy and warmth of the holiday season, fostering community spirit and creating unforgettable memories.