Seven major holiday events open across Ontario this month
Ticket prices range from free to $45 as lights and markets launch in Toronto, Vaughan, Burlington, and other cities.
By Emmanuel Obasi ·
Seven major holiday markets and light shows open to the public in Ontario this month, with admission fees ranging from free to $45 per person. The events span from Toronto to Burlington and Vaughan, offering families and individuals new options for seasonal outings as winter begins.
The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto opens on November 12 at 6 p.m. with an official tree lighting ceremony. The venue is located at 55 Mill St. in the Distillery District. Adult tickets cost $19.89, while children aged nine and under enter for free. The event runs until January 3 and features historic cobblestone streets decorated with lights, food vendors, and live carollers.
In Vaughan, Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest begins on November 21. The park at 1 Canada’s Wonderland Dr. will feature millions of lights, live entertainment, and more than 20 family rides. Ice skating is available on Snow Flake Lake, and guests can decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus. Tickets are priced at $45 each, though some season passes include admission. The festival runs through January 3, 2027.
The One of a Kind Craft Show returns to the Enercare Centre at Toronto’s Exhibition Place from November 27 to December 6. Located at 100 Princes’ Blvd., the event includes unique gift vendors, a Nutcracker competition, and a DIY Creative Lounge. Online tickets cost $23 for adults, while on-site tickets are $25.50. Children aged 12 and under do not pay an admission fee. Garage and surface parking are available for an additional cost.
In Burlington, the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Winter Wonders display operates from November 26 to January 3. The outdoor walkway in Hendrie Park is open to the public from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays through Sundays. Adult tickets start at $22, and children aged three to 12 pay $18. The exhibit features light displays and holiday art installations along a 1.5-kilometer pathway.
Friday Harbour in Innisfil hosts a Holiday Market from November 20 to December 27. The event is open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily and includes a vendor village, a Christmas workshop with Santa, and roaming carollers. A holiday tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for November 28 at 5 p.m. The market also supports a local toy drive for unwrapped gifts.
Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg launches Alight at Night on November 27. Over one million lights illuminate the grounds through January 2. Adult tickets are $18, children aged five to 12 pay $15, and children under five enter free. The venue is at 13740 County Rd. 2. On December 2, 9, and 16, guests with limited mobility can view the lights from their own vehicles.
The Niagara Parkway hosts a free festival from November 14 to January 10. More than three million lights line the 1.5-kilometer stretch between Clifton Hill and Dufferin Islands. The event includes winter fireworks, interactive exhibits, and photo opportunities with Santa. There is no admission fee for this display.
