Lost with Luis {Holiday Edition}: 12 Christmas activities in Toronto that will get you in the Christmas spirit

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: An awesome list of Christmas activities to get you into the Christmas spirit! You’re welcome! ;)

I should start by saying that I am OBSESSED with Christmas. Nothing makes me happier, than this time of year. The lights, the music, the traditions and that feeling of nostalgia that awakens the kid in me. I love everything about Christmas and the moment the clock strikes 12:01 AM on November 1st, I am in full Christmas mode. Why not celebrate something that makes you happy for as long as you possibly can?

I always make it a habit to do as many Christmas activities as possible. Some years, ‘the Christmas spirit’ hits me hard, other years it takes a little time to get there. Here is my list of must do Christmas activities in the Toronto area that will be sure to get you into the spirit!

1. A Christmas Carol – Soul Pepper Theatre

Dates: December 6 – December 24

Cost: $38.00 - $98.00

Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. I have seen this play three times to date and I don’t get tired of it. The actors are fantastic, and the theatre is small and intimate which allows you to really get lost in Ebenezer’s world. It’s heartwarming and I cry every time. If you have not seen the play, do yourself a favour and book it. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. The theatre is conveniently located in the Distillery District, therefore you can take a stroll through the Toronto Christmas Market either before or after, which is next on my list!

2. Toronto Christmas Market

Dates: November 14 - December 22

Cost: Free on weekdays, $8.00 advanced purchased tickets, $12.00 day of tickets on weekends

I have mixed feelings when it comes to the Toronto Christmas Market. On one end, it’s a must do. It’s super Christmassy with the old part of Toronto as the perfect backdrop. There are lots of twinkling lights and vendors selling delicious food and drinks. The downside is that it is often packed and I am not big on crowds. With that being said, it’s a must do during Christmas. I suggest going during the week when it’s free and if you can manage to go during your lunch break or during the day, you will avoid the heavy crowds.

3. Hudson’s Bay Holiday Wonderland Windows

Dates: November 14 - New Year

Cost: Free

The Hudson’s Bay Windows are a 100-year-old Christmas tradition. Take a break from your shopping and go see the beautiful, creative display windows surrounded by larger-than-life nutcrackers. This year’s theme is ‘Behind the scenes at Santa’s workshop’. Enough said.

4. Hudson’s Bay Christmas Market (CF Toronto Eaton Centre)

Dates: November 14 - New Year

Cost: Free

The Bay on Queen Street is your one stop shop for everything Christmas and their Christmas market is the perfect way to get into the spirit. I always add this to my Christmas to-do list as they have the best ornaments and decorations. Whether you’re looking to shop or not, it’s still worth the visit

5. Eaton Centre Christmas Tree

Dates: November 14 - New Year

Cost: Free

Located just a few steps away from the Hudson’s Bay windows, is this iconic 33-metre tree. It is the tallest in the city, and worth a peek during your Christmas shopping. It’s a feast for the eyes and a perfect selfie backdrop.

6. Christmas by Lamplight – Pioneer Village

Dates: December 7, 14 & 21

Cost: $26.95 - $36.95

Christmas at Pioneer Village is like walking into the past of what Christmas was like in the good old days. This Victorian style Christmas experience is filled with the perfect décor, carolers, horse-drawn carriages and old Christmas traditions. While Christmas by Lamplight is definitely a must, you can also visit at other times during the holidays and experience the same magic (sans the lamplight).

7. Miracle on Ossington – Christmas Pop up Bar

Dates: November 25 - December 26

Cost: Free (Cocktails can add up though!)

Miracle pop up bars pop up all over the world during the holidays and these bars are Christmas on steroids. Last year, this pop up bar was on Queen Street and this year they will be located on Ossington Street. Try an assortment of different Christmas themed cocktails, all in the comforts of a bar that is completely decked out in Christmas. It’s a true Christmas experience. No reservations.

8. Home Alone in Concert – Toronto Symphony Orchestra

Dates: November 14 - New Year

I went to this concert last year with a friend and it was a magical experience. Imagine watching an all-time Christmas favourite on a big screen with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra playing all of the theme songs alongside the movie. It’s an incredible experience. The soundtrack to Home Alone has some fantastic music, so hearing it played live is pretty awesome. It really makes you appreciate the importance of soundtracks to movies.

Update: This event has sold out, but I am leaving this post so that you flag this for next year! You might be able to score some tickets from Kijiji or stubhub!

9. Outdoor Ice Skating

Dates: Varies depending on weather

Cost: Free, skate rentals additional

I won’t limit this to one location in particular because ice skating anywhere outdoors is pretty Christmassy and fun. Nathan Phillips Square is of course a popular location, with the Toronto City Hall as the perfect backdrop. If you’re like me, however, and prefer less of a crowd, try something smaller in your neighborhood. Greenwood Outdoor Rink is a 5 minute walk from home for me and the perfect outdoor rink to get my Christmas skating on. For a complete list of outdoor rinks and when they are open, you can click here.

10. The Polar Express

Dates: November 23 – December 22

Cost: $37.99

If you ever want to relive your childhood by riding the polar express, look no further! The York-Durham Heritage Railway provides train rides to the North Pole on their polar express. The train is decked out in Christmas décor and includes a Santa visit and hot chocolate. My favourite detail? They encourage children to wear pajamas. Define ‘children’… I’m grabbing my robe!

11. Annual Allan Gardens Conservatory Winter Flower Show

Dates: December 2 – January 9

Cost: Free

Allan Gardens is a great spot all year long, but especially during the winter. The green house serves as a nice break from the cold during the winter months. From December 2nd to January 9th, you can enjoy the conservatory in all its Christmas glory. The greenhouse is decorated with over 30 different types of poinsettia as well as beautiful seasonal decorations.

Source: Toronto.com staff photo Nick Perry

12. CP Holiday Train

Dates: Thursday, November 28, 8:00 PM

Cost: Free

All aboard the holiday train! Celebrate the holiday season by visiting one of the most popular trains, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train. What’s best, is that the CP Holiday Train Program collects food and raises funds for food banks across North America. Be sure to dress warm and bring non-perishable food items. Giving back during the holidays and making other’s feel special is what it’s all about!