(updated for the 2025 season) The holiday season is a magical time in Toronto, especially for families with kids! With twinkling lights, festive events, and plenty of activities, Toronto transforms into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re local or visiting, here is a kid-friendly guide to experiencing Toronto at Christmas.
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1. Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Start your adventure with a classic winter activity: ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square! The rink, set against the backdrop of Toronto’s iconic City Hall and the glowing holiday lights, is a magical experience for kids and adults alike.
The skating rink will open for the season on November 29.
Skate rentals are available, so don’t worry if you don’t have your own gear. Pro tip: visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds. You can get more information on skate rentals here.
Rentals are available from 10am – 9:45 pm everyday and costs $10 for kids and $15 for adults.
2. Christmas Fun at the Eaton Centre
The Eaton Centre is a huge mall and is a must-visit during the holidays if you’re visiting toronto. It is packed with family-friendly activities:
First off you can meet Santa! Visit Santa for a photo-op, and your kids will receive a complimentary LEGO® gift and tote bag. Book a time on their website here.
Next while doing your shopping you can enjoy live Christmas Music! Enjoy the sounds of the season as local musicians perform throughout the mall.
Head to the middle of the mall for the Light & Snow Show! Every hour, catch the mesmerising tree light and snow show from 12 PM – 8 PM on weekdays and 12 PM – 6 PM on weekends. The Christmas tree is a massive 114 feet, you can’t miss it!
Shopping has never been this festive—or fun for kids!
Find the details on the Eaton Centre Here.
3. Spend an Afternoon at the Distillery District Winter Village
For a truly magical holiday experience, visit the Winter Village at the Distillery District. The afternoons are perfect for families. Plus if you head there before 4 pm, its free to enter!
Kids will love:
– Meeting Santa and his roaming elves
– Taking photos with giant snowpeople, the Dior Christmas Tree, and the “Countdown to Christmas” sign
– Sipping on hot chocolate while exploring festive photo ops like Angel Wings, the Big Heart, and Santa’s Sleigh
– Writing letters at the North Pole Post or meeting furry friends for pet photos
The evenings are definitely beautiful as well because everything is lit up for the festive season. It opens for the season on November 13. Check the Distillery District Winter Village website for ticket details.
4. The Santa Claus Parade (November 23, 2025 at 12:30 PM)
Kick off the holiday season at the 120th annual Santa Claus Parade! This beloved Toronto tradition winds through the city with dazzling floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa himself. Check the parade map for the route and plan your spot early to get a great view.
5. Tree Lighting at Riverdale Farm (December 6, 2025 at 6:30 PM)
Celebrate the season at the Riverdale Farm Tree Lighting Ceremony. Kids can enjoy carolers, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate while marvelling at the beautifully decorated tree. Spend the day at the farm exploring the barn, meeting the animals, and strolling the trails before the evening festivities begin.
6. Christmas at Casa Loma
Step into a real-life fairytale at Casa Loma, where Christmas magic fills the castle! Highlights include: A stunning 40-foot tree, visits with Santa in his castle workshop and festive arts and crafts for kids. Get your Christmas at the Castle tickets on their website.
In the evenings, for something a bit different and get tickets for the Holiday Lights Tour at the castle. Enjoy a self-guided tour through the gardens and tunnels, featuring live performances and sparkling decor.
Grab your tickets to either Casa Loma events on their website. The whole family will love Casa Loma lit up for Christmas!
7. Festive Lights Bus Tour
Don’t miss the beautiful Christmas lights all around the city! Check out this bus that takes you to all the iconic spots. Tour past places like Distillery District, Nathan Phillips Square and Yorkville.
It is an hour and a half long. Adults cost $50, Kids $35
8. Canada’s Wonderland Winterfest
This one you will need a car for but it is totally worth the visit. Canada’s Wonderland lights up the park for Winterfest.
Running November 15 to January 3. Some rides are open but none of the big roller coasters.
You can grab a hot chocolate while listening to carollers, catch a show in the theatre or around the park, go ice skating and more!
Get more information on times here.
Where to Stay
There are a ton of hotels in the downtown area of Toronto for every budget!
Check out some of our favourite:
Affordable Hotels (under $200/night)
Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre
Luxury Hotels:
Toronto during the holidays offers countless opportunities for family fun, from skating under the stars to exploring magical villages and castles. Bundle up, grab some hot chocolate, and enjoy the festive spirit of the season with your family!
What’s your favourite family activity in Toronto during Christmas? Let me know in the comments!
Love this post! Thanks for sharing more of Toronto with us! ❤️
Looks amazing! Toronto is on my list!