December Top 5: Best Ways to Experience the Holiday Season

Featured Image: The Thirsty Elf at the Fairmont Royal York
Celebrate the festive season in downtown Toronto with a myriad of events and experiences. Embrace the holiday spirit by exploring the neighbourhood throughout December. From festive markets to seasonal performances, downtown Toronto is adorned with activities that cater to diverse tastes. Discover five great ways to immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere and make the most of the holiday season!


Holiday Dining Experiences

Holiday Dining at Reign at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto

The Holidays are a beautiful time to vacation in Toronto, and enjoy festive Hotel amenities. Christmas Festivities at the Shangri-la include Christmas Eve Dinner, Christmas Day Brunch, and Christmas Night Dinner. The Hotel is also featuring a special Nutcracker Afternoon Tea from now until December 30th. The Ritz-Carlton’s TOCA will celebrate with a Holiday Brunch Buffet, and Christmas Dinners at EPOCH. The Fairmont Royal York is hosting an array of Festive events – view their Festive Calendar for full details! 

Celebrate the season at a local restaurant. Minami’s holiday menu will be available in December, with reservations now open. Selva will feature cozy outdoor domes, and delicious prix fixe menu, so you can feel like you’re dining in a snow globe, surrounded by warmth and twinkling lights. 


Holiday Events

Holiday at the Well in Downtown Toronto, image of woman in a snow globe.

There is so much Winter fun to be had downtown Toronto this season. Holiday at the Well, is a free, ongoing winter event featuring Family Entertainment, Musical Performances, an Immersive Stardust Bridge and more! Holiday Hills at Stackt Market is jam-packed with vendor markets, community led events, food & drink, plus One-of-a-kind holiday shopping pop-ups. You can also enjoy The Magic of the Holiday Season at Glenn Gould Studio.


Shop for Unique Gifts 

Gifts ideas from Dog World Resort and Spa in Downtown Toronto
Great gift options from Dog World Resort & Spa – Image by Danica Oliva Photography

Indulge in the joy of winter shopping as the snow falls, and find the perfect gift for that special someone. For something truly unique, customize apparel and accessories at My Dope Tee or grab Contemporary art prints by local artists at Open Studio. Open Studio is located in 401 Richmond, a historic building filled with art galleries and creative shops, such as Spacing Store and Swipe Design books + objects, where you’ll find books and gifts by local designers, artists, and makers. If you’re pampering a furry friend, Dog World Resort & Spa and Hounds Of York have the best gifts for dogs and dog owners.


Family Friendly Holiday Experiences

National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker

You can bring the whole family to classic performances such as National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker, or head to Roy Thomson Hall for TSO Holiday Pops, Messiah, or Home Alone in Concert. Saturday Story Time at the Toronto Railway Museum features railway-themed stories, Followed by an exploration of the museum with a kids’ guide activity book.


Share Festive Cocktails with Loved Ones

Christmas sweaters and cocktails at the Thirsty Elf pop-up bar at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto.

Cheers to colleagues, friends and family this December! Enjoy Fireside Festive Cocktails at the Shangri-La, or the Fairmont’s annual holiday-themed pop-up, The Thirsty Elf. Or learn how to to create festive cocktails at the Holiday Mixology Class Masterclass at The Ritz-Carlton!


Explore the magic of downtown Toronto this holiday season with our comprehensive neighbourhood Holiday Guide. Find the best festive delights and experiences this December!