Toronto City in Winter: What to Do, See, and Experience This Snowy Season in 2025

Snow boots on, poutine in hand, Toronto winter in 2025 is shaping up to be an absolute vibe! From dazzling light shows to foodie festivals that will ruin your diet and your willpower, this city knows how to do cold weather fun.

Toronto City in winter transforms into a wonderland of outdoor adventures, cozy cultural moments, and holiday happenings you will actually want to leave the house for. Whether you’re in it for the twinkle lights, the skating trails, or that maple syrup on everything energy, there is no shortage of ways to stay entertained.

This guide is packed with insider tips and can’t miss events to help you plan your coolest winter yet. Keep reading because you won’t want to miss a single snowflake!

What Are the Best Events Happening During Toronto Winter in 2025?

If you’re planning to experience Toronto winter in 2025, you’re in for a lineup of unforgettable events that make braving the chill totally worth it. From massive tree lightings to art-filled open houses, the city transforms into a nonstop celebration of snow, lights, and culture.

Kicking things off in the heart of downtown, Nathan Phillips Square hosts the annual Cavalcade of Lights. Meanwhile, the distillery district sparkles during the beloved Distillery Winter Village. Food lovers can look forward to Winterlicious, though you’ll need to wait for 2026 dates to be confirmed.

Meanwhile, Canada’s Wonderland turns into a frosty fairytale during WinterFest, and the legendary One of A Kind Winter Show celebrates 50 years of handmade holiday magic. Keep reading for more insider details on each event and how to make the most of this frosty, festive season.

50th One Of A Kind Winter Show

Celebrating its milestone 50th year, the One of A Kind Winter Show returns November 27 to December 7, 2025 at the Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place. This beloved event features hundreds of Canadian artisans offering everything from hand-poured candles to gourmet jams.

The vibe is peak holiday browsing with live demos, curated zones, and major gift-giving inspiration. Perfect for knocking out your list or just pretending you’re shopping for someone else while secretly buying for yourself.

Toronto International Boat Show

If you’re wondering what to do in Toronto in January, the Toronto International Boat Show should be high on your radar. Returning January 17–26, 2025, this massive expo takes place at the Enercare Centre and features everything from luxury yachts to paddleboards.

It’s organized by Canadian Boat Shows and includes seminars, interactive demos, and even an indoor lake where you can try out the gear. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just boat-curious, this is where lake dreams meet winter reality.

Winterlicious

Foodie season hits new heights during Winterlicious, one of Toronto’s most anticipated culinary festivals. While 2026 dates haven’t been released yet, past editions ran for two weeks starting late January and featured prix-fixe menus from 200+ restaurants citywide.

Coordinated by the City of Toronto, this event spotlights local chefs and global cuisine in equal measure. Bookmark this one if you want exclusive tables and mouthwatering menus—more info for 2026 is coming soon.

Wavelength Winter Music Festival

The indie scene gets a winter glow-up during Wavelength Winter Music Festival, set for February 11 to March 11, 2026 at St. Anne’s Parish Hall. This annual fest is curated by Wavelength Music and showcases emerging Canadian talent across genres. Think synth-pop one night, experimental jazz the next.

Beyond the music, the venue itself is part of the charm with its gothic architecture and intimate acoustics. If your ideal night out involves discovering your next favorite band with a mulled wine in hand, this is it.

Distillery Winter Village in the Distillery District

Set against the cobblestone charm of the distillery district, the Distillery Winter Village is a European-style market with serious main character energy. While 2025 details haven’t dropped yet, previous years featured artisan vendors, photo ops with giant ornaments, and curated cocktails in glowing yurts.

The event is usually curated by the Distillery District and draws big crowds for its blend of shopping and seasonal sparkle. Check back soon for the full 2025 announcement—this one fills your camera roll fast.

Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square

One of the most iconic holiday events returns to Nathan Phillips Square, though official 2025 details have not yet been announced. Cavalcade of Lights typically features a massive tree lighting ceremony, live music, and skating under the glow of thousands of twinkle lights.

Organized by the City of Toronto, the event usually kicks off the holiday season in late November. Stay tuned for the 2025 lineup and timing, as it’s always a must-see moment in the heart of the city.

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

Winter magic goes full theme park during WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland, returning select nights from November 15, 2024 to January 3, 2025. The park transforms into a glowing holiday spectacle with ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, live shows like Tinker’s Toy Factory, and over five million lights.

Hosted at Vaughan’s Canada’s Wonderland just outside the city, this immersive experience includes themed zones like Candy Cane Lane and Charlie Brown’s Christmas Town. It’s a favorite for families, couples, and anyone who believes snow is best paired with roller coasters.

Winter Festival of Lights

Although 2025–2026 dates for the Winter Festival of Lights haven’t been announced yet, this Niagara-based spectacle is a quick drive from Toronto and absolutely worth it. Past years lit up the city with over 75 dazzling displays stretching along an 8km route from Dufferin Islands to the Niagara Parkway.

The event is produced by the Niagara Falls Tourism and features installations that sync with music, firework shows, and special themed weekends. Keep your eyes peeled for this season’s reveal—it’s the kind of glow-up that redefines holiday road trips.

‘Tis The Season Art Exhibition

Mark your calendar for the ‘Tis The Season Art Exhibition, happening during the Community Open House on November 26, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. This annual event brings together local artists and makers for a festive showcase of paintings, sculpture, and multimedia pieces.

It takes place at the Clark Centre for the Arts, giving you serious cozy gallery night vibes wrapped in holiday cheer. Expect community, creativity, and maybe even a few surprise performances while you sip cider and browse.

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto

Families and LEGO lovers, rejoice! The Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto is on its way, though 2025 event details haven’t been released just yet. Previous years transformed the indoor attraction with seasonal builds, scavenger hunts, and exclusive holiday mini-figures.

Hosted at Vaughan Mills, this event mixes kid-friendly fun with just the right amount of nostalgia for adults. Stay tuned for updates because these bricks bring serious December joy.

What Are the Top Things to Do in Toronto City in Winter This 2025 Season?

From icy outdoor adventures to cozy cultural escapes, Toronto City in Winter offers a surprisingly packed lineup of things to do in 2025. You can cross country ski through High Park or the Toronto Islands for peaceful snow-covered trails that feel worlds away from city life.

Lace up your skates at scenic skating rinks like The Bentway or glide beneath twinkling lights at Nathan Phillips Square. Catch the electric energy of a Toronto Maple Leafs game, then slow things down with sky-high views from the CN Tower.

Indoors, you can marvel at marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium. Warm up with art and artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum. Or sing along at a Toronto Symphony Orchestra holiday concert. Keep reading for the full winter lineup and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.

Go Cross Country Skiing

For a serene escape without leaving the city, cross country skiing on the Toronto Islands offers frozen views of Lake Ontario and a peaceful break from the usual tourist bustle. This underrated winter activity also happens to be one of the best things to do in Toronto in December, especially when the trails are dusted with fresh snow.

High Park is another local favorite, with wide open trails and scenic forest paths that feel like a hidden woodland retreat. Whether you’re gliding past frozen marshes or weaving through snow-covered trees, Toronto turns into a Nordic dream for winter adventurers.

Go Ice Skating

No winter visit is complete without checking out Toronto’s iconic skating rinks, many of which transform the city into a literal snow globe. Some of the most photogenic places to skate in Toronto in December include Nathan Phillips Square, with its famous holiday tree and twinkling lights, and The Bentway, which loops beneath the Gardiner Expressway in ultra-cool fashion.

For a cozier vibe, head to the Barbara Ann Scott Ice Trail near College Park. It winds through a landscaped garden path with music and mood lighting. With each rink offering its own vibe, skating here feels less like a workout and more like starring in your own winter rom-com.

Attend a Toronto Maple Leafs Game

Few things scream Canadian winter like bundling up in blue and white to attend a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Scotiabank Arena. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just want to soak in the energy, this is where hockey culture truly comes alive.

The atmosphere is electric, the crowd is rowdy (in a good way), and you’ll leave knowing more about icing and offside than you ever planned. Catching a game in winter adds an extra layer of intensity. Because when it’s cold outside, Toronto bleeds Leafs blue.

Take in Panoramic Views at CN Tower

While the CN Tower at 290 Bremner Blvd is open year-round, winter gives those panoramic views a frosted edge that’s pure magic. You can see the city sparkle under a blanket of snow, with the lake shimmering like frozen glass in the distance.

Brave the glass floor or grab a window seat at the revolving restaurant for next-level scenery. On a clear winter day, the view stretches all the way to Niagara Falls—yes, seriously.

Be Fascinated at the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

If you’re wondering what to do in Toronto in December that doesn’t require freezing your eyelashes off, head to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. From walking through a tunnel surrounded by sharks to hypnotic jellyfish tanks, it’s an immersive escape into an underwater world.

The contrast of stepping out of the cold and into a warm, glowing sea-scape makes it even more enchanting in winter. The aquarium is at 288 Bremner Blvd just right next to the CN Tower, so you can easily double up on the fun.

See a Christmas-themed Concert at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra

The holidays hit a high note when you see a Christmas-themed concert at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, with festive programming that turns classical music into holiday magic. If you’re visiting Toronto Canada in December, expect performances like Messiah, TSO Holiday Pops, or even Home Alone in Concert with a full live orchestra.

These seasonal concerts are held at Roy Thomson Hall, a stunning venue that feels extra cozy when it’s snowing outside. The experience is equal parts elegant and nostalgic, making it a standout event on your winter calendar.

Attend Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Step out of modern-day Toronto December and straight into the 11th century at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, where knights joust and falcons soar—all while you eat dinner with your hands. The castle-style arena near Exhibition Place feels especially festive during winter.

Roaring fires, cheering crowds, and dramatic lighting that screams Game of Thrones meets dinner theater, oh my! December shows often get a holiday twist, adding to the pageantry and family fun. It’s dramatic, loud, totally extra—and honestly, kind of perfect for a winter night out.

Explore the Royal Ontario Museum

Winter is the perfect excuse to explore the Royal Ontario Museum at 100 Queens Park, where dinosaurs, mummies, and fashion exhibitions keep things fascinating and frostbite-free. The dramatic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal entrance might be icy on the outside, but inside you’ll find one of Canada’s largest collections of art, culture, and nature.

Seasonal exhibits often launch in December, offering new discoveries even if you’ve been before. It’s brainy, beautiful, and best enjoyed when you’re happy to spend hours indoors.

What Are The Toronto in Winter FAQs?

Are There Any Winter Toronto Hotel Packages?

Finding the best Winter Toronto hotel packages doesn’t have to be a stress-inducing scavenger hunt! Tripster has already done the hard work for you. With exclusive discounts when you bundle hotels with top Toronto attractions, your winter getaway becomes both effortless and budget-friendly.

Score up to 42% off with deals like the Illuminarium Toronto + Hotel combo, which lets you dive into immersive experiences and cozy accommodations in one click. History buffs can save 22% with the Royal Ontario Museum + Hotel Package, perfect for adding a little culture to your snow-covered itinerary.

Or hop aboard with the City Sightseeing Toronto + Hotel package and enjoy 20% off while seeing the city from an open-air perspective. Tripster makes winter travel feel like a win before you even pack your scarf.

What Winter Toronto Vacation Packages Are Available?

Booking Winter Toronto vacation packages doesn’t have to mean choosing between experiences when Tripster lets you have it all—and save. By bundling two of Toronto’s top attractions together, you can unlock discounts of up to 9% without sacrificing your winter wish list.

Think of it as a reward for being a savvy traveler with great taste. You’ll skip the ticket hunt and keep more in your wallet for maple lattes and souvenir mittens. Winter fun and savings? Yes, please!

Ripley’s Selfie Studios + Royal Ontario Museum

Save up to 9% with the Ripley’s Selfie Studios + Royal Ontario Museum combo and strike a pose before diving into centuries of art, history, and culture. Book now to lock in the deal and enjoy two of Toronto’s most eye-catching attractions in one easy bundle.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Niagara Falls + Royal Ontario Museum

Save up to 7% with the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Niagara Falls + Royal Ontario Museum package and experience the weird, the wild, and the wonderfully historic. It’s the perfect mix of jaw-dropping oddities and timeless treasures—all while keeping your budget intact.

City Sightseeing Toronto + Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament Toronto

Save up to 5% with the City Sightseeing Toronto + Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament Toronto bundle and go from panoramic views to knightly battles in one unforgettable day. Grab your combo deal now and experience the best of Toronto from the top deck to the royal court.

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So, What’s My Next Move?

If experiencing a magical Toronto winter is now officially on your radar, you’re not alone. It’s the kind of season that makes snow boots feel like a fashion statement.

Exploring Toronto City in winter means skating under the stars, indulging in seasonal eats, and soaking up festive energy at every corner. To make the most of your trip, start planning early so you can snag the best dates for events, shows, and must-do activities.

With Tripster, you can bundle attractions, book your hotel, and grab exclusive vacation deals all in one place—no spreadsheet chaos required. From cross-country trails to indoor concerts, your 2025 winter getaway deserves to be smooth, special, and fully booked before the crowds catch on.

Now grab that hot cocoa and start mapping your dream Toronto winter escape!