10 things to do in Toronto this week (Dec. 15-19)

The countdown to Christmas is on, and Toronto is deep into the festive magic. So when it comes to holiday activities to do in the city, there’s no shortage of things to do in Toronto this week. And believe us, it’s a busy yet cheery one.

To help you plan, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Toronto. Get ready for a fun-filled week.

The Drake’s Sky Yard rooftop is now a “full-on festive escape” with a holiday pop-up bar and “playful, grown-up winter playground.”

Sip your holiday cocktails, meet new people, and take in the views. Just give me a cup of Drake Nog, and I am happy!

When: Now until Dec. 25, 2025
Time: Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: The Drake Hotel – 1150 Queen St W.

Ontario’s Legislative Building, Queen’s Park, is set to swap debates for a little enchantment this December. On select nights, Festive Lights will bring holiday fun to the grounds, inviting visitors to wander among ice fairies, listen to cheerful live music and dive into festive holiday crafts.

When: Dec. 17, 20, 22, 23, 2025
Time: Varies depending on dates
Where: Ontario’s Legislative Building, Queen’s Park, Toronto
Cost: Free admission. $10 per person for Pancakes with Santa. Registration required for Dec. 10, 17, 22, and 23.

Who’s ready to party?? Mott 32 has launched its special Friday-night-only DJ series that you don’t want to miss out on.

When: Friday nights
Time: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Mott32 – 190 University Ave.

The ultimate Christmas festival is back in the city! Toronto’s beloved Stackt market has transformed into a winter wonderland for the holidays.

Expect a refreshed look at the beloved event, inspired by the charm of holiday tradition. That means nostalgic treats, vintage-inspired cocktails, and classic movies.

When: Until Dec. 28, 2025 (excluding Mondays)
Time: Noon to 10 p.m.
Where: Stackt Market — 28 Bathurst St.
Cost: Free

King West’s first Christmas pop-up is now open! From festive bites and seasonal drinks to photo ops with Santa, gift-wrapping stations, and fun activities, there’s lots to do at this Portland Square pop-up.

When: Thursdays to Sundays
Time: Thursday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to late, Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Portland Square, first floor, 600 King St. W.

Expect delicious treats like cookies, eggnog, and all the festive eats from The Bearded Baker as you browse vintage finds from Starlotte Satine Vintage. There will also be art by Richael Laking to enjoy. Heidi Savoie is bringing the holiday cheer via a piano performance on Dec. 19, 2025 — don’t miss out.

When: Dec. 19, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 11 a.m. to TBD
Where: 218 Ossington Ave.
Cost: Free

Happening at Harbourfront Centre, this adorable winter festival needs to be a stop along your weekend walk.

“Winterfest 2025 transforms Harbourfront Centre into a festive wonderland. Enjoy dazzling lights, delicious eats, magical train rides, holiday markets, a new Winter Maze and live performances,” shares HC.

When: Fridays to Sundays until Dec. 31, 2025
Time: Fridays from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., Sundays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: 235 Queens Quay W. 
Cost: Free admission

The Ritz-Carlton has brought the magic of the festive season to the EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace. Experience a luxurious holiday market with gorgeous winter decor, a seasonal menu and much more.

It’s inspired by traditional European holiday markets, bringing a touch of medieval charm to the city. Think wooden chalets with twinkling lights, handmade ornaments and seasonal treats. All four senses will be ignited, giving visitors a bit of nostalgia and connection with the season.

When: Until Dec. 31, 2025
Time: Mondays to Saturdays, 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton — 181 Wellington St. W.
Cost: $30+

Holiday magic has taken over Toronto’s Casa Loma just in time for the festive season. The iconic castle will transform into a winter wonderland this December with its annual Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights Tour experiences.

The beloved event is back and places you in a Christmas storybook as you wander through the magical trail, past dazzling light displays in the gardens and throughout the castle grounds and tunnels.

When: Until Jan. 6
Time: Varies
Where: Casa Loma – 1 Austin Terr.
Cost: Varies

According to the Ace Hotel, “Guests are invited to settle into a chic new alpine vibe at the Ace’s rooftop hotspot, complete with twinkling lights, blazing fireplaces, and warm blankets for snuggling indoors or out on the terrace.”

When: Until Feb. 28, 2026
Where: The Ace Hotel – 51 Camden St.

Have a fun and festive week, Toronto!

Recent Posts:
Ontario ice skating trails that shine bright when the sun goes down
No pants, no problem! Toronto’s cheeky Polar Bear Skate returns this month