Things To Do in Toronto This Week (December 15-21)

Trying to squeeze in a little fun before the true holiday chaos kicks in? Same here. And since this guide to things to do in Toronto this week (December 15-21) makes that week feel a bit more exciting, I pulled together a mix of events that fit the mood of mid-December. You’ll enjoy festive outings, seasonal treats, and those “okay fine, I’ll go out even if it’s cold” activities we all end up doing anyway. And to give you more room to explore, I also added a few picks outside the city in case you’re craving a quick change of scenery.

To ensure your visit runs smoothly, check the event’s official site for updates on schedule changes. Even with free admission, expect potential fees for food/drinks/activities or an RSVP requirement.

Free Fun Things To Do

Hangar Skate at YZD

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YZD brings back its massive outdoor rink with affordable skate rentals. The plaza looks lively with art installations, music, and themed nights, so staying for “just one lap” is almost impossible.

When: December 19, 2025-February 16, 2026
Where: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.yzd.ca
Best for: Casual skaters and families wanting an easy winter plan.

Winter Glow

Sankofa Square glows again with lights, music, and steady energy from afternoon to late evening. It’s the kind of spot you wander through on your way home and somehow end up staying longer than planned.

When: Until December 21, 2025
Where: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St. E., Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.sankofasquare.ca
Best for: People looking for an easy, free holiday outing.

Winterfest Toronto 2025

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Harbourfront Centre fills with lights, food stalls, rides, and a Winter Maze that becomes a magnet for kids. The market adds a nice touch, and the performances help round out the visit.

When: Until December 21, 2025
Where: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W., Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission (select activities ticketed)
Website: https://harbourfrontcentre.com
Best for: Families and groups wanting something festive and simple.

Holiday Hills 2025

Holiday Hills brings installations, small shops, and weekly entertainment that keep things lively throughout the month. It’s fun to wander through, especially if you’re looking to shop a little and snack a little.

When: Until December 28, 2025
Where: STACKT market (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://stacktmarket.com
Best for: Couples, friends, and casual holiday explorers.

Holiday at The Well

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This Nordic-inspired setup keeps things relaxed with small vendors, open spaces, and steady programming. It’s a good stop if you want to browse gifts in a quieter environment.

When: Until December 28, 2025
Where: 486 Front St W, Toronto
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://thewelltoronto.com
Best for: Slow afternoons and small-shop holiday browsing.

Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic

*Photo via* *@blooryorkville* */ Instagram*

The neighbourhood lights up beautifully this month, and the carolers add a classic touch as they move through the area. The Urban Campfire Benches are always a fun surprise for first-timers.

When: Christmas tree and light displays until December 31, 2025 / strolling carolers perform on select dates
Where: Village of Yorkville Park (115 Cumberland Street & Bellair Street, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.bloor-yorkville.com
Best for: Evening strolls and holiday photos.

Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights

*Photo via* *@winterfestivaloflights* */ Instagram*

If you’re up for a quick trip, Niagara’s Festival of Lights is totally worth it. You get massive light displays, glowing paths, and winter views of the falls that make the whole thing feel cinematic.

When: Until January 4, 2026
Where: Niagara Falls
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://wfol.com
Best for: Road-trippers and couples wanting a scenic night.

Cavalcade of Lights 2025

Nathan Phillips Square stays busy with skating, performances, and one of the brightest displays in the city. The combination of lights and music brings a fun energy to the space.

When: Until January 7, 2026
Where: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.toronto.ca
Best for: Skaters and anyone who loves big public events.

Union Winter Presented by TD

Things To Do in Toronto This Week — *Photo via* *@torontounion* */ Instagram*

Union Station’s roller rink comes back with free rentals and lessons. The DJ nights tend to draw a big crowd, and the 19+ evenings bring a different vibe.

When: Until January 18, 2026
Where: Union Station (65 Front St. W., Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission (Advance registration for Roller Express recommended)
Website: https://torontounion.ca
Best for: Teens, adults, and anyone who loves trying something new.

Paid & Ticketed Events

Winter Blooms Circus

This indoor-outdoor circus show mixes humour, winter stories, and impressive aerial acts. Rosie Petals and her sidekick Dustee guide the audience through playful moments and engaging performances that feel personal and warm.

When: December 19-21, 2025
Where: Toronto Botanical Garden (777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://torontobotanicalgarden.ca
Best for: Kids, adults, and anyone who loves circus arts.

Toronto International Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

This production treats the familiar story with warmth, detail, and a more intimate setting than the big stage versions. Clara’s journey feels closer and more expressive, especially with the talented cast bringing every movement to life.

When: December 20-21, 2025
Where: Bluma Appel Theatre (27 Front Street East, Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.torontoballet.ca
Best for: Ballet fans and anyone who enjoys classic holiday traditions.

Ho, Ho, Haute! Santa at Bayview Village

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Santa returns to his glossy Bayview Village setup, and the photos always come out sharp and festive. Kids will love it, and adults usually get pulled into the fun too.

When: Until December 24, 2025
Where: Bayview Village Shopping Centre (2901 Bayview Avenue, Toronto)
Reservations: Click here.
Website: https://www.bayviewvillageshops.com
Best for: Families and shoppers passing through.

Miracle on Bloor Christmas Bar 2025

This pop-up takes holiday decor to another level, and the themed drinks help keep the night lively. Expect drag shows, DJs, and a very chatty crowd.

When: Until December 28, 2025
Where: 875 Bloor St. West, Toronto
Reservations: Click here.
Website: https://www.miracletoronto.com
Best for: Adults wanting a fun holiday night out.

National Ballet of Canada: The Nutcracker

This long-running favourite fills the stage with classic choreography, expressive performances, and a dreamy set that still feels magical after all these years.

When: Until December 31, 2025
Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts (145 Queen Street West, Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://national.ballet.ca
Best for: Families and anyone wanting a polished holiday show.

Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights

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Casa Loma turns into a glowing walkway of lights and seasonal displays. It’s self-guided, so you can take your time exploring the gardens and tunnels.

When: Until January 3, 2026
Where: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://casaloma.ca
Best for: Date nights and families who love scenic walks.

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

The park lights up with rides, food, shows, and those two huge Christmas trees. Skating and themed areas make it a full evening trip.

When: Until January 3, 2026
Where: 9580 Jane St, Vaughan
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.sixflags.com/canadaswonderland
Best for: Families wanting a full holiday outing.

The Distillery Winter Village

The cobblestones, shops, and huge tree create a strong holiday atmosphere. It’s busy, but that’s part of its charm.

When: Until January 4, 2026
Where: 55 Mill Street, Toronto
Tickets: Only required during specific peak periods. Click here. Entry is free at all other times.
Website: https://www.thedistillerywintervillage.com
Best for: Holiday photos and gift shopping.

Concerts & Live Music

Burna Boy

Burna Boy returns with his latest album and a huge show at Scotiabank Arena. So, prepare for high energy and a big crowd.

When: December 17-18, 2025
Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.onaspaceship.com
Best for: Fans of Afrobeats and big arena concerts.

Air Supply

If you’re in the mood for a little soft-rock nostalgia, Air Supply brings the kind of show where everyone sings along without even realizing it. It’s warm, sweet, and perfect for a cold December night.

When: December 17, 2025
Where: The Theatre at Great Canadian Toronto (1133 Queen’s Plate Dr, Etobicoke)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://airsupplymusic.com
Best for: Soft-rock listeners and long-time fans.

Other Events/Activities to Check Out

Enlightenment: An Immersive Vivaldi Light Show – Until December 19 at Knox Presbyterian Church (630 Spadina Ave., Toronto) | Ticketed
Breakfast with Santa at Hotel X Toronto – Until December 21 at 111 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto | Reservations required
The White Garden at Queens Harbour – Until January 31, 2026 at 245 Queens Quay W, Toronto | Reservations required
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Chicago Blackhawks – December 16 at Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto) | Ticketed
Toronto Raptors vs. Boston Celtics – December 20 at Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto) | Ticketed
Winter Market at Evergreen Brick Works – December 21 at 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto | $5 suggested donation

Want more holiday glow this week?

If you’re still in the mood to see more lights after all these events, my guide to the Best Christmas Lights in Toronto & the GTA (2025) has plenty of spots worth adding to your list. It’s a great way to plan a few more evening strolls before the season wraps.

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