Magical Christmas Lights in Ontario ** Must-see Holiday Displays
🎄 Ontario transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with enchanting light displays, festive charm, and magical moments around every corner. Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) shine brighter than ever, from iconic landmarks like Casa Loma and Nathan Phillips Square to breathtaking illuminations in Niagara Falls.
🎄 Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the festive season offers something special for everyone, with a variety of spectacular light displays, holiday markets, and family-friendly attractions to enjoy.
By the time you reach this guide, you might find some events are already passed but save it anyway for better plans next holiday season 😍🤩🥳
✨ Ready to embrace the glow? Let’s dive in!
1. Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest
Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a magical winter paradise during WinterFest, an unforgettable holiday experience perfect for all ages. Located in Vaughan, just outside Toronto, this festive event offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to create cherished memories with family and friends.
Explore a park adorned with millions of twinkling lights, hundreds of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and two stunning 50-foot trees on International Street. Delight in ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, enjoy thrilling rides, and immerse yourself in over a dozen live shows and holiday performances.
The magic doesn’t stop there! Wander through themed areas, indulge in festive food, shop for seasonal goodies, and soak in the holiday magic with family and friends. Don’t miss this enchanting celebration perfect for all ages!
2. Holiday Lights at Bloor-Yorkville
This November and December, Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a holiday wonderland with dazzling festive lights illuminating the tree-lined streets and creating a magical atmosphere. Starting November 23rd, the Village of Yorkville Park and Bloor Street come alive with sparkling displays, inviting visitors to enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural attractions in a beautifully lit setting.
Don’t miss the unique Urban Campfire Benches, permanent fixtures along Bloor Street West, glowing with holiday colors. These 60 campfire-inspired benches add a cozy, outdoor charm to the bustling city scene. A perfect spot to soak in the festive cheer!
3. Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square
Celebrate the holiday season in Toronto at the Cavalcade of Lights, a dazzling event inspired by luminous festivals and traditions from around the world. The festivities begin on Saturday, November 30, at 5 p.m, featuring live music, performances, and the grand lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree.
Glide into the holiday spirit with nightly ice skating and admire the captivating light installations that transform Nathan Phillips Square into a magical wonderland.
4. The Holidays at Illumi
Experience the magic of Illumi, a breathtaking outdoor journey illuminated by over 20 million dazzling LED lights spread across 600,000 square feet—the size of 10 football fields! Marvel at the world’s largest Tree of Lights, standing an impressive 47 meters tall, made of 44,000 luminous spheres that light up the night sky.
Explore 16 enchanting themed universes featuring whimsical displays of giant snowmen, candy canes, reindeer, sparkling snowflakes, and more. New attractions this year include a vibrant candy cane tunnel of lights, two fresh universes, and the chance to snap photos with Santa Claus until Christmas Eve.
5. Casa Loma's Holiday Light Tour
This December experience the magic of the season at Casa Loma’s spectacular Holiday Light Tour. Wander through a dazzling lighting display in the gardens and tunnels, all decorated for the festive season.
Designed as a self-guided walk, guests stroll through the property’s grounds while enjoying the spectacular decorations, outdoor lighting displays and live performances.
As always kids are invited to visit Santa in his castle workshop.
6. Discover the Magic of the Distillery Winter Village
Step into a festive wonderland at the Distillery Winter Village, a holiday tradition nestled in the charming streets of Toronto's historic Distillery District. This iconic seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to life with twinkling lights, European-style market cabins, unique artisan vendors offering handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and gourmet treats and a massive Christmas tree centerpiece adorned with dazzling ornaments.
Experience live music and entertainment, photo opportunities with stunning backdrops, and the cozy ambiance of this enchanting village.
7. Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market
Discover the perfect holiday gifts at this vibrant one-day event showcasing 180 talented local artists and designers. From unique art and photography to handcrafted jewelry, fashion, home decor, candles, and body care, you'll find something for everyone on your Christmas list.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere with music from a live DJ and delicious offerings from food vendors. Shop directly from the creators and support local talent while checking off your holiday shopping list in one delightful stop!
Date & Time:
Saturday, November 2, 2024 | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address :
Bentway, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
Public Transit Accessible
8. St. Barnabas Annual Christmas Market
Get into the festive spirit at the St. Barnabas Annual Christmas Market! Explore a variety of vendors and artisans offering unique holiday treasures, perfect for gift-giving or treating yourself. Don’t miss the famous St. Barnabas jams and jellies table, along with a refreshment table to keep you energized while you shop.
Mark your calendar and join us for a day filled with holiday cheer, shopping, and community!
Saturday, November 2, 2024 - 10 AM to 4 PM
Address: St. Barnabas Anglican, 361 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P1
Public Transit Accessible
9. Trinity Bellwoods Holiday Market
Celebrate the season with the final outdoor market of the year in the iconic Trinity Bellwoods Park! Kick off your Christmas shopping with unique treasures from local vendors, perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere, connect with amazing people, and soak up the charm of this beloved park. Whether you’re here to shop, explore, or simply enjoy the day, this holiday market promises memories to treasure.
Don’t miss the chance to make your holiday season unforgettable!
Saturday November 2, 2024 | 11AM – 5PM
Located at Trinity Bellwoods Park, 790 Queen St W
Wheelchair accessible
Street Parking
10. Merry Market
Get into the festive spirit at this flagship holiday event, where 70+ local businesses and small shops will gather at the beautiful Small Arms Inspection Building for all your holiday gifting needs. With over 100 local vendors, this two-day celebration is your perfect opportunity to shop small, support local, and find meaningful gifts this season.
As part of the festivities, Hello Happy will host a food drive, with all donations supporting a local charity—because giving back makes the season even brighter.
Come spread the cheer, find unique treasures, and kick off your holidays in style!
GENERAL ADMISSION $5 – $8
Kids under 16 are FREE!
Saturday, Nov 9 | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sunday, Nov 10 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: Small Arms Inspection Building - 1352 Lakeshore Road East Mississauga, ON, L5E 1E9 Canada
11. Holiday Market at Stackt Market
Get ready for the most wonderful time of the year!
Explore STACKT Market, an innovative space built from shipping containers, animates 100,000 square feet with local vendors, workshops, events and activities. It’s completely free to enter and wander through.
🎄✨ On Sunday, November 10th, join us at the iconic Stackt Market for a festive Holiday Market featuring the best of Barkada MRKT**.** and Urban Makers Market, all under one roof.
🎁 Shop 30+ vendors offering unique, one-of-a-kind gifts, including clothing, jewelry, home décor, art, and accessories.
🍴 Savor delicious Asian-inspired cuisines and treats while you browse.
Arrive early—the first 20 shoppers in line will snag exclusive Swag Bags filled with local goodies!
12. Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season with the all-new Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, celebrating 15 years of magical performances! This breathtaking extravaganza blends the artistry of circus acrobatics with the joy of beloved holiday melodies, creating an unforgettable experience for all ages.
🎄 What to Expect:
* Awe-inspiring acrobatics and gravity-defying aerial acts.
* Talented musicians and singers performing timeless seasonal favorites.
* Dazzling new costumes, storylines, and a fresh blend of music and wonder.
Let your imagination soar as you embark on a journey filled with music, marvels, and merriment. Don’t miss this dazzling holiday celebration where the magic of the season comes alive!
Tickets : $25.5 – $69.50+fees
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 8:00 PM
Address: The Theatre at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, 1133 Queens Plate Dr, Toronto, ON M9W 0G4 CA
Paid Parking
13. Toronto Christmas Pet Show
Get ready for a weekend of festive fun at the Toronto Christmas Pet Show! 🐾🎄 Perfect for pet lovers and their furry companions, this event brings the holiday spirit alive with exciting activities and attractions for all.
🎁 Highlights Include:
* Interactive Experiences: Meet celebrity pets, visit Santa, and enjoy creative grooming demos.
* Shows & Competitions: Watch the thrilling 9-Ring CKC Dog Show and TICA Cat Show.
* Pet-Focused Marketplace**:** Explore unique pet products and artisan-crafted goods, perfect for holiday gifting.
Celebrate responsible pet companionship with the whole family while creating unforgettable holiday memories. We can't wait to see you there! 🐶🐱✨
Adult (ages 16 – 64) – $22
Youth/Senior – $15
Saturday November 23 to Sunday November 24, 2024
Saturday – 10am – 6pm
Sunday – 10am – 4pm
Address: The International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga ON, L4V 1E8
Free Parking
14. Mississauga Festival of Trees
Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season at the Festival of Trees! ✨
🌲 Discover stunning tree installations crafted by talented artists from across the country, stroll beneath twinkling lights, and shop for one-of-a-kind gifts at the Artisan and Culinary Holiday Market. With over 80 vendors offering unique creations and gourmet delights, it’s the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts and indulge in seasonal treats.
🎄 What’s Happening:
* Hands-on workshops to spark your creativity.
* Live performances to set the festive mood.
* Opportunities to make lasting holiday memories with loved ones.
Whether you're a returning guest or a first-time visitor, the Festival of Trees promises a magical holiday experience you won’t forget. 🌟
December 6th – 15th, 2024
Holiday Market: December 6th – 8th - 13th – 15th, 2024
Address: Small Arms Inspection Building, 1352 Lakeshore Rd E, Mississauga, ON L5E 1E9
15. Markham Annual Festival of Lights
Kick Off the Holiday Season in Style!
Join the festive cheer at this vibrant community event packed with holiday magic! 🎄
🎅 Enjoy live music, carolers, fire artists, and a special appearance from Santa as he helps light the Christmas tree. Marvel at a dazzling fireworks display and shop for unique gifts at the Holiday Market, featuring local craft vendors in a cozy heated tent.
🎁 Family Fun Highlights:
* Snap a photo with Santa 🎅
* Warm up at winter stations
* Explore festive light displays
* Meet interactive holiday characters
Cast your vote in the Best Dressed Holiday Window Contest and experience the joy of the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 8 PM at Main & Robinson Street. Don’t miss this magical start to the holiday season! ✨
Friday November 29, 2024 | 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
8 pm: tree-lighting & fireworks!
Main Street Markham – 132 Robinson Street, Markham, ON L3P 5H5 Canada
Main Street will be closed between HWY 7 and Bullock from 4pm-11pm for this event
Free Parking
16. Whitby’s Festive Light Display
🎉 Whitby glows this season with over 200,000 lights and dazzling displays across Civic Park, Celebration Square, and Grass Park.
Enjoy the Whitby Farmer’s Market at Night with seasonal vendors, live music, Santa visits, and festive treats like maple taffy.
Snowflake-lined streets and holiday décor in Downtown Whitby and Brooklin add to the charm, making it a perfect stop for holiday cheer and stunning photo ops!
🎄 Stroll along the illuminated path and exploring the neighborhood along the way on the town trolley at these stops:
* Durham Regional Headquarters (605 Rossland Road East)
* Whitby Municipal Building (575 Rossland Road East)
🅿️ Parking: Whitby Civic Recreational Center (555 Rossland Road East)
November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Located at Whitby Civic Park (555 Rossland Road), and Celebration Square (405 Dundas Street West).
17. Holiday Magic at Blue Mountain Village
🥳 Step into a winter wonderland at Blue Mountain Village this holiday season, where enchanting lights, festive music, and joyful entertainment await! Wander through the 1km Holiday Light Trail filled with twinkling displays, enjoy interactive installations like the Dream Tree and Topsicles, and marvel at the Singing Forest trees.
New this year, the Snowdome Garden offers a cozy spot for coffee, snacks, and seasonal cocktails. Enjoy festive performances, visit Santa on his horse-drawn carriage, and explore over 50 shops and restaurants.
A five-night stay in December for two adults and two children from $135.75 per night. Daily ski-lift pass from $64.67 per day.
18. Festival of Northern Lights in Owen Sound
🎄 Experience the winter wonderland of Owen Sound during the Festival of Northern Lights, where nearly 400 dazzling displays and kilometers of lights transform the downtown area into a magical holiday destination.
From 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. each evening, stroll through Harrison Park to enjoy the captivating Infinity Tunnel and the Winter Wonderland Walking Path, filled with festive illuminations.
November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Located at: Harrison Park, Owen Sound
19. Festival of Lights in Burlington
Get into the holiday spirit at Spencer Smith Park in Burlington, where the Festival of Lights transforms the waterfront into a winter wonderland. From December to early January, the park is aglow with 60 stunning lighting displays, creating a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Whether you're strolling through the park with family and friends or taking in the breathtaking views from your car along Lakeshore Road, the Festival of Lights promises to brighten your holiday season.
November 29, 2024 to January 8, 2025
4PM to Midnight daily
EXtended hours (all day & night) on Christmas eve, Christmas Day, Orthodox Christmas, New Years Eve!
20. Sparkling Winter Lights at Niagara Falls
Experience the magic of winter at Niagara Falls during the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights. This enchanting event features over 3 million lights illuminating the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands, and the majestic Niagara Falls.
One of the highlights is the "Sparkling Winter Lights" illumination show, which brings to life the beauty and power of winter. From gentle snowfalls to the breathtaking aurora borealis, the display captures the essence of winter with stunning visuals, from snowy tundras to frosted falls. It's a true celebration of the season’s wonder.
For those looking to warm up, the Winter Festival of Lights Hot Chocolate Trail invites you to sip on delicious chocolatey beverages from local chocolatiers, chefs, and mixologists. This self-guided tour leads you to some of the best spots in Niagara Falls for a cozy treat while exploring the dazzling lights around you.
🎄✨ Activities include:
* Santa Meet & Greet with a FREE PHOTO Sponsored by Ontario Power Generation @ Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse.
December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 6pm-8pm
* The Misty Kids @ Queen Victora Park.: November 16, 22, 23, 29 & 3, December 6,7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28, January 3 & 4
* The Jambo Brothers: November 22, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Acrobat Show
* Santa Claus Parade Niagara-on-the-Lake
Saturday, December 14, 11:00am – 1:00pm
And much more....
21. Kingsville Fantasy of Lights
The Fantasy of Lights Festival has LOTS of things to do for the whole family including:
* Santa Claus Parade
* Train rides - cost $2 per person, $5 per family of four, run from November 22, 2024 to December 22, 2024 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Lakeside Park.
* Crafts with Santa santa
* Concert Series - On select Friday evenings, enjoy holiday music inside Lakeside Park Pavilion.
* Come out to the Christmas Artisan Market at Lakeside Park Pavilion on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Sunday, December 8, 2024 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
* Paws and Claus will be held on Tuesday, December 3 at Lakeside Park Pavilion, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Bring your pet and camera to have a photo taken with Santa Claus!
* Breakfast with Santa - The cost is $10 per person; 2 years and younger dine for free. Saturday, December 14 at the Lakeside Park Pavilion
* Fantasy of Lights Concert - On December 21, at 6:00 pm, There will be live musical entertainment, free hot chocolate and goodies, Christmas cards to create, as well as our Kingsville Express train rides
* New Years Fireworks Show at 7:00 pm and Free Skating at 4:30 pm to 6:50 pm
And more ...
**Wrap Up Your Season with Holiday Magic!**
As the holiday light festivals come to a close, let the memories of twinkling displays, festive tunes, and cozy moments linger long after the season ends. Whether you explored sparkling trails, marveled at breathtaking illuminations, or found one-of-a-kind treasures at a holiday market, we hope this season will fill your heart with joy and wonder.
Until next year, may your days be merry and bright! ✨
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