Ontario Holiday Season Opens with Seven Major Events This November
Seven major holiday markets and light shows begin this month across the province, offering families specific dates and pricing for their winter celebrations.
By Daniela Ortega ·
Seven of Ontario's largest holiday events launch this month, transforming parks, historic districts, and theme parks into winter destinations. These venues operate from late November through early January, offering light displays, markets, and family activities. The season kicks off with the Distillery Winter Village in Toronto, which opens on Nov. 12.
The Distillery District in Toronto turns its cobblestone streets into a winter setting with lights, food, and local artisans. Guests can view immersive Nutcracker scenes or watch the holiday stage performance Parfumerie at Soulpepper Theatre. The official tree lighting occurs at 6 p.m. on Nov. 12. General admission costs $19.89 for adults, while children nine and under enter free. The event runs until Jan. 3 at 55 Mill St.
The One of a Kind Craft Show returns to the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place in Toronto from Nov. 27 to Dec. 6. Vendors sell unique gifts, while attendees participate in a Nutcracker competition and DIY workshops. The venue also hosts a carousel, fashion shows, and a photo booth. Online tickets cost $23 for adults, and on-site tickets are $25.50. Children 12 and under enter free. The building is located at 100 Princes’ Blvd.
Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan launches WinterFest on Nov. 21. The park features millions of lights, live entertainment, and more than 20 family rides. Activities include ice skating on Snow Flake Lake and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $45 each, though some season passes include admission. The event runs until Jan. 3, 2027. Visitors can reach the park via GO Transit or TTC to nearby stations, though York Region Transit may be required to reach the parking lot.
Friday Harbour’s Holiday Market in Innisfil opens Nov. 20. The waterfront resort features sparkling lights, warming lounges, and a vendor village. Guests can meet Santa and the elves at a Christmas workshop and listen to roaming carollers. The market runs until Dec. 27 from 5 to 8 p.m. A holiday tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 28 at 5 p.m. Attendees can bring unwrapped toys for the Community4Kids toy drive.
Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg illuminates its grounds with over one million lights for Alight at Night. The event runs from Nov. 27 to Jan. 2. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $15 for children aged five to 12, and nothing for children under five. Visitors can take horse-drawn carriage rides or drive through the village on Dec. 2, 9, and 16 for a sensory-friendly experience. The village is located at 13740 County Rd. 2.
Niagara Falls hosts a free festival of lights along the Niagara Parkway from Nov. 14 to Jan. 10. More than three million lights line the route between Clifton Hill and Dufferin Islands. The festival includes winter fireworks, entertainment, and more than 25 new displays. Visitors can take photos with Santa and enjoy interactive exhibits along the 1.5-kilometre pathway.
Burlington’s Winter Wonders at Royal Botanical Gardens opens on Nov. 26. The display in Hendrie Park features festive lights and holiday art installations. The event runs Thursdays to Sundays from 5:30 to 10 p.m. until Jan. 3. Tickets start at $22 for adults and $18 for children aged three to 12. Indoors, the Mediterranean Garden and Breezeway host plant displays, while the Botanical Train Display offers a whimsical attraction.
