Photo courtesy of Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights.
It is our shared responsibility to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Before attending an in-person event, please review the event protocols in place, and if you have any questions, please contact the organizer directly.
Things to Do This Holiday Season
December 15, 2021
As we jingle our way into the holiday season, there’s much to explore and enjoy with our loved ones. Here are some of our picks in one handy list!
Winter Festival of Lights
Now to February 21, 2022 | In-person | Free
Niagara Falls Region
Experience Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival with 3 million lights along the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands and across Niagara Falls. Located within the Hilton Hotel & Suites, an indoor entertainment stage provides free entertainment on the weekends. It’s the perfect opportunity to warm up and enjoy more family fun.
Centennial Park Conservatory Winter Flower Show
Now to January 9, 10am-4pm | In-person | Free
Centennial Park and Conservatory, Central Toronto
Miss the lush flowers and plants of summer? Get your floral fix at this winter flower show, featuring over 30 varieties of poinsettia and amazing seasonal topiary masterpieces made entirely of plant material.
Smiths Falls Celebration of Lights
Now to January 7, 2022 | In-person | Free
Smiths Falls Region
Celebrate the magic of the holidays and tour Centennial Park lit by thousands of festive displays beneath the stars.
Burlington Festival of Lights
Now to January 8, 2022 | In-person | Free
Spencer Smith Park, Burlington
Stroll along Burlington’s waterfront with friends and family, or enjoy the themed attractions while driving along Lakeshore Road at the City’s waterfront throughout the holiday season! With many restaurants in close proximity, why not make a night of it?
Mississauga Festival of Trees
Now to December 19 | In-person | Prices vary
Small Arms Inspection Building, Mississauga
Celebrate the season with displays of seasonal lights, contemporary tree and woodpile art installations, artisan and culinary markets, entertainment and public workshops by local artists, postsecondary students, and community groups. From floral centrepiece workshops, nature walks, and family-friendly PJ parties, there’s something for everyone.
Cavalcade of Lights
Now to January 2, 2022 | In-person | Free
Nathan Phillips Square, Central Toronto
The City’s glittering tree and skating events return, as well as mesmerizing light installations inspired by cultural festivals from around the world. Explore tunnels made from thousands of energy-efficient bulbs, discover glowing ice sculptures in an enchanted forest and watch as beams of light animate City Hall like never before.
Support Artisans and Creatives this Season
Ottawa Farmers’ Market: Christmas Market
Now to December 19, 9am-3pm | In-person | Free
Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
Shop local this Christmas with a market featuring 77+ artisans and farmers, who produce their edible goods and intricate crafts within a 100-km distance from the City of Ottawa. The market showcases the best of this region, with many agricultural, craft, baked goods, personal care products, and prepared food artisans in attendance.
Holiday Fair in the Square
Now to December 30, dates and times vary | In-person | Free
Assembly Park, Vaughan
Whether you’re shopping for that unique holiday gift at the Artisan Marketplace, bringing the family to visit Santa and enjoy the winter carnival, or looking to share the holiday magic over a drink at the Polar Point Bar with that special someone, this family-friendly holiday fair is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit! This year, Holiday Fair in the Square is also teaming up with Nights of Lights for a bigger, better, and brighter holiday event–synchronized to everyone’s favourite holiday tunes.
Sweaters N’ Snowflakes Holiday Pop-Up
Now to December 26 | In-person | Free
Bathurst St and Richmond St, Central Toronto
Want a cozy forest getaway in the heart of the city? Try out this licensed, socially distanced food and wine bar pop-up experience with a cozy holiday forest vibe. Some nights host live acoustic music and caroling, while the holiday market hosts a live DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. With mulled wine, apple cider, a wood-fire food market, and date night activities to choose from, this will be sure to warm you up.
Run the World Holiday Market
Now to December 24 | In-person | Free
Square One, Mississauga
Get into the spirit of giving by supporting local, women-owned businesses at Run The World Summit’s luxurious Holiday Market. With over 35 women-owned businesses, you’ll be sure to find the perfect holiday gift. Featuring complimentary gift wrapping and Instagrammable installs for your holiday photos!