Popular holiday hot spots opening this week across GTA

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Not everyone is happy about Toronto’s early snowfall but two destinations for family holiday fun in the GTA might make the white stuff a bit more palatable.

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First up is the Distillery Winter Village in downtown Toronto, which opens Thursday night in the Distillery District with the annual tree lighting at 6 p.m. It stays open until Jan. 4, 2026, with tickets on sale here.

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A crowd of thousands will join Santa in counting down before he flips the switch and officially opens Toronto’s world-famous Christmas Market.

The village “transforms 13 acres of cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture into a magical wonderland filled with holiday lights, carolers, photo ops, festive food and drinks and one-of-a-kind shopping from local artisans,” said a news release.

Distillery District a popular holiday destination

One million visitors from around the world are expected this season, making The Distillery Winter Village one of the most popular holiday destinations of its kind.

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Highlights include a new Santa’s Village (with a Narnia-inspired theme), Santa and his elves, roaming carolers, themed outdoor cocktail bars, the famed countdown clock and vendor cabins filled with gifts and festive treats including the return of viral favourites like the Cluny s’mores hot chocolate.

“Many of The Distillery Winter Village favourites are back this year — from Santa’s Village to the Naughty or Nice Bar to our famous photo ops,” Rik Ocvirk, vice-president of The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and director of experiences and events with The Distillery Historic District, said in a statement.

Tickets are required for peak times, including opening night; Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4 p.m.; and daily from Dec. 15 to Dec. 31. Kids nine years old and under are always free.

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Winterfest at Canada’s Wonderland an ‘all age’ affair

Next up is WinterFest, which returns to Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan on Saturday featuring nine live shows, musical performances, seven million lights, ice skating, family rides, festive food and more.

The event is open select dates through to Jan. 3, 2026, and features a nightly lighting ceremony of a 50-foot-tree and interactive attractions like ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, photo ops with Elf on a Shelf and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus.

“WinterFest is a wonderful holiday tradition for guests of all ages,” park manager Heather Hill said in a statement.

“It’s a magical experience to see the entire park lit up with lights, to hear the holiday music, to see the exciting shows and enjoy a fun night out with family or friends.”

More information on WinterFest, including tickets and skating reservations, are available here.

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