As the temperature plummets and the snow begins to fall, Toronto begins to come alive with the holiday spirit in December. There are so many things to do and see while you’re visiting our city, so we’ve made it simple with a list of our suggestions of 10 things to do in Toronto this December.

The Christmas Market at the Distillery District

Perhaps one of the most popular Holiday events in Toronto, The Christmas Market at the Distillery District is at the top of our list. Shop local vendor’s wares, eat tasty holiday treats, drink and be merry, or watch one of the featured shows. There is something for everyone to do at The Christmas Market. If you’re not a fan of big crowds, we suggest visiting on a weekday when it’s not so crowded.

The Nutcracker

A must-see holiday classic presented by the National Ballet of Canada. The Nutcracker tells a magical story of imaginative childhood and fantasy. Explore the magical world of the Snow Queen and Sugar Plum Fairy in this dazzling show.

A Christmas Carol at The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Join Ross Petty in an evening of musical Holiday fun by attending ‘A Christmas Carol’ performed in true British pantomime tradition. This rendition takes the classic tale we all love so well, adding in kid-friendly slapstick humor and ‘insider’ jokes for the adults.

Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square

 An exciting winter carnival and holiday fair combine to create a charming and elegant event at Nathan Phillips Square for all to enjoy. Find unique gifts, family fun, local food and drinks, and more at Toronto’s central Holiday Fair.

Evergreen’s Winter Village

On the east-side of the city, tourists and locals are invited to enjoy the Winter Village at Evergreen Brickworks. Play outdoors, shop local, and eat great food in Toronto’s winter playground.

Go Skating Outside

Wrap up warm, and lace up your skates! Toronto is home to some of the best outdoor skating rinks and trails, located all over the city. From DJ Skate Nights at the Harbourfront-Centre to the festive surroundings at Nathan Phillips Square, there is plenty of ice for all to enjoy. 

See The Holiday Window Displays

Snap the perfect Instagram picture of one of Toronto’s iconic and festive holiday windows. Saks Fifth Avenue features glamorous wintery scenes inspired by the 80th anniversary of Disney’s Snow White. The Hudson’s Bay Company’s windows depict scenes that look like the inside of beautiful snow globes.

Visit Casa Loma

What’s more magical than a trip to a castle during the holidays? This year, they are celebrating 150 years of Canadian Christmas. From ice skating performers to the giant 40ft tree designed by Canadian fashion Icon Jeanne Beker, Casa Loma is a feast for the eyes with plenty of things to discover inside.

ROM for the Holidays

The Royal Ontario Museum has been transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season in Toronto. Explore three very different worlds through by viewing the Dior, Vikings, and Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibits.

Miracle on Mercer Street

A classic holiday favourite arrives at Second City this month. An adorable cast of puppets tells a tale of a little girl who spends the holidays with her Grandma in a wintery little town. Miracle on Mercer Street is a hilarious show for all ages.

Did you attend any of these Toronto events? Share your experience with us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.