What’s Open and Closed on Christmas Day in Toronto 2025: Restaurants & Attraction
If you’re wondering what’s open on Christmas Day in Toronto, the answer might surprise you — the city doesn’t completely go quiet on December 25. While many shops and offices take the day off, there are still restaurants, cafés, and attractions ready to welcome guests.
If you’re skipping the cooking, planning a festive date, or just looking for something to do after opening gifts, there’s plenty to enjoy. From cozy meals to scenic skating rinks and dazzling light displays, here’s where you can still find the holiday magic around Toronto.
Note: Holiday hours and availability may vary — always check official websites or social media before heading out.
What’s Open on Christmas Day in Toronto? (2025 Guide)
Restaurants & Cafés
Fox on John
Fox on John will be open from 9 AM to 2 AM on Christmas Day, serving a festive turkey dinner alongside seasonal cocktails. It’s a downtown favourite for those who want a lively atmosphere and great food without the cleanup.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Modern British
- Location: 106 John St #3, Toronto
- Contact: www.foxonjohn.ca | (647) 748-0369 | Info@foxonJohn.ca
- Pro Tip: Reserve early — it’s one of the few downtown restaurants offering a full holiday menu.
Louix Louis at The St. Regis
If you want to celebrate Christmas in style, Louix Louis at The St. Regis delivers luxury with every bite. Their elegant prix-fixe Christmas dinner feels straight out of a festive film — all golden décor, fine wine, and skyline views.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: French – American
- Location: 325 Bay St, Toronto
- Contact: www.louixlouis.com | (416) 637-5550 | toronto.louixlouis@stregishotels.com
- Pro Tip: Dress up and go early for dinner — the skyline views at sunset are gorgeous.
7 West Café
Open 24 hours a day — including Christmas — 7 West is a cozy Toronto staple. If you’re craving pancakes in the morning or pasta at midnight, this café’s warm, lived-in charm makes it a comforting holiday hangout.
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- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Café
- Location: 7 Charles St W, Toronto
- Contact: www.7westcafe.com | 1 416-928-9041 | 7west.management@gmail.com
- Pro Tip: Ideal for small groups or solo diners looking for a relaxed, no-pressure meal.
Eataly Toronto
Both the Yorkville and Don Mills Eataly locations open on Christmas Day with select food counters and cafés running. Expect espresso, pastries, and plenty of Italian holiday treats — including panettone and gourmet gifts to take
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: Manulife Centre, 55 Bloor St W, Toronto (other locations)
- Contact: www.eataly.ca/stores/eataly-yorkville/restaurants | 1 437-374-0250 | guestrelationstor@eataly.com
- Pro Tip: Pick up Italian cheeses and pastries for an easy, festive picnic at home.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar (Select Locations)
Several Keg locations open on December 25 — usually from 4 PM onward. If you’re craving steak and prime rib instead of turkey, this is your best bet.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Location: 515 Jarvis St, Toronto (other locations)
- Contact: www.thekeg.com/en/locations/mansion | 1 416-964-6609 |
- Pro Tip: Call your nearest branch to confirm hours; some only open for dinner service.
Fairmont Royal York
For a grand holiday feast, head to the Fairmont Royal York. The hotel’s dining spaces transform into festive halls serving luxurious brunches and buffets fit for a celebration.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 100 Front St W, Toronto
- Contact: www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/toronto/fairmont-royal-york.html | 1 416-368-2511
- Pro Tip: Expect dressier vibes — book ahead and make it your special holiday splurge.
United Bakery Dairy Restaurant
This family-run Toronto institution serves hearty breakfasts and comforting meals on Christmas morning. It’s simple, affordable, and beloved by locals who’ve made it a yearly ritual.
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- Price: $ – $$
- Location: 506 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto
- Contact: https://unitedbakers.ca | 1 416-789-0519 | info@unitedbakers.ca
- Pro Tip: Great for an early brunch before heading to other attractions.
Joni Restaurant
Located inside the Park Hyatt, Joni offers a festive Christmas Day brunch buffet featuring seasonal favourites in a chic setting. It’s upscale yet welcoming — perfect for a slow, celebratory meal..
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Canadian
- Location: Park Hyatt Toronto, 4 Avenue Rd, Toronto
- Contact: www.jonirestaurant.com 1 647-948-3130 | jonirestaurant@hyatt.com
- Pro Tip: Book in advance — their Christmas buffet fills up quickly every year.
Attractions & Outdoor Fun
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Open 9 AM – 9 PM, Ripley’s is a holiday favourite for families and date nights alike. The glowing jellyfish, tunnels of fish, and holiday music make it a surprisingly peaceful Christmas escape.
- Price: $$
- Location: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
- Contact: www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-canada | (647) 351-3474
- Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for a quieter, more relaxed visit (and better photos).
CN Tower
The CN Tower stays open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Christmas Day, offering unbeatable views of Toronto twinkling under the winter sky.
- Price: $$
- Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
- Contact: www.cntower.ca | 416 868 6937
- Pro Tip: Time your visit for sunset — you’ll catch golden hour and the city lights all in one go.
Toronto Zoo
Open 11 AM – 4 PM, the zoo is unexpectedly peaceful on Christmas Day. Many animals are more active in the cool weather, making it a calm and wholesome holiday outing.
- Price: $$
- Location: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto
- Contact: www.torontozoo.com | 1 416-392-5900 | info@torontozoo.ca
- Pro Tip: Check which zones are open before you go — the winter map helps you plan your route.
Nathan Phillips Square Ice Rink
Toronto’s most famous skating spot stays open all day on December 25. The twinkling lights, holiday music, and downtown backdrop make it one of the most festive things to do on Christmas.
- Price: $$ (for skate rental)
- Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto
- Contact: www.toronto.ca | 1 416-392-2489
- Pro Tip: Skating at night is magical — fewer crowds and stunning city views.
Casa Loma (Holiday Lights Tour)
Toronto’s own castle glows with holiday spirit during Holiday Lights at the Castle, which runs through Christmas Day. It’s a whimsical mix of music, décor, and festive displays.
- Price: $$
- Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
- Contact: https://casaloma.ca | (416) 923-1171 | info@casaloma.ca
- Pro Tip: Go after dark for the full sparkle — every corner is photo-ready
Allan Gardens Conservatory
Escape the cold inside this lush, century-old conservatory. Open 10 AM – 5 PM, it’s filled with tropical plants and poinsettias — a warm, quiet retreat on a chilly Christmas afternoon.
- Price: FREE
- Location: 19 Horticultural Ave, Toronto
- Contact: www.toronto.ca | 416-392-7288
- Pro Tip: Bring a book or coffee — it’s one of the most peaceful spots open on Christmas.
Movie Theatres (Cineplex & Independent Cinemas)
Catching a movie on Christmas Day is practically a Toronto tradition. Cineplex locations across the city, plus independent theatres like TIFF Bell Lightbox, Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, and Imagine Cinemas, all open for the holidays. Expect blockbuster premieres, holiday favourites, and maybe even a festive popcorn special.
- Price: $$
- Location: The Tenor, 10 Dundas St E #402, Toronto (other locations)
- Contact: @cineplexmovies | 416-977-9262
- Pro Tip: Book seats online early — Christmas screenings tend to sell out fast.
What’s Closed on the 25th (But The Boxing Day Strategy)
Arcadia Earth
Located in The Well, this isn’t just an art gallery; it’s a multisensory moment. Think augmented reality, underwater worlds, and art installations made of upcycled materials that will make you rethink your plastic usage while looking incredibly chic. It’s immersive, educational, and a total visual palate cleanser after all that wrapping paper.
- Status: Closed Dec 25 | Open Boxing Day (Dec 26)
- Price: $$ (Approx. $39 for adults)
- Location: The Well, 486 Front St W, Toronto
- Contact: www.arcadiaearth.ca
- Pro Tip: This is your essential Boxing Day recovery plan. Book an “Anytime” ticket for the 26th now so you have a solid, sophisticated destination when you wake up post-turkey.
The Major Museums (ROM & AGO)
While they are bustling hubs of culture year-round, both the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) take a pause on Christmas Day.
- Status: Closed Dec 25 | Open Boxing Day (Dec 26)
- The Plan: If you need a dose of culture, wait 24 hours. They reopen on the 26th, usually with regular or holiday hours, making them perfect for a sophisticated post-Christmas stroll.
The Shopping Giants (Eaton Centre, Yorkdale, etc.)
Don’t plan on browsing the racks on the 25th. Toronto’s major malls, including the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale, are firmly shut.
- Status: Closed Dec 25 | Open early Dec 26
- The Plan: Rest up. The madness of Boxing Day sales begins bright and early the next morning.
LCBO & The Beer Store
A classic Toronto rookie mistake is forgetting this one. All LCBO and Beer Store locations are closed on Christmas Day.
- Status: Closed Dec 25
- The Plan: Stock up on your wine and spirits by the 24th. Do not be the person searching for a bottle of Pinot at 6 PM on Christmas Day.
Still in a festive mood?
Don’t miss Where to See the Most Dazzling Christmas Lights in Toronto — the ultimate guide to the city’s brightest holiday displays.
Related Reads:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/askTO/comments/1hjnmq1/whats_open_on_christmas_day
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/christmas-new-years-2024-whats-open-whats-closed-1.7418623
- https://www.toronto.ca/news/whats-open-and-closed-in-the-city-of-toronto-this-holiday-season
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