The early snowfall in Toronto might not have everyone cheering, but two major holiday destinations opening in the Greater Toronto Area this week are set to transform winter into a season of festive magic and family fun.
Distillery Winter Village Lights Up Toronto
The iconic Distillery Winter Village in downtown Toronto officially opens its doors on Thursday, November 13, 2025, with a grand tree lighting ceremony scheduled for 6 p.m. This beloved attraction will welcome visitors until January 4, 2026, creating a prolonged season of holiday cheer.
A crowd of thousands is expected to join Santa Claus for the countdown as he flips the switch, officially inaugurating Toronto's world-famous Christmas Market. The event transforms 13 acres of historic cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture into an enchanting wonderland, complete with dazzling holiday lights, roaming carolers, unique photo opportunities, festive food and drinks, and shopping from local artisans.
This season, organizers anticipate welcoming one million visitors from around the globe, solidifying The Distillery Winter Village's status as one of the most popular holiday destinations of its kind.
New Attractions and Returning Favourites
Highlights for the 2025 season include a brand-new Santa's Village with a Narnia-inspired theme, where guests can meet Santa and his elves. The experience is complemented by themed outdoor cocktail bars, the famous countdown clock, and vendor cabins filled with gifts and treats.
Viral food favourites are making a comeback, including the much-loved Cluny s'mores hot chocolate. Rik Ocvirk, Vice-President of The Distillery Restaurants Corp., confirmed that many fan favourites have returned, from Santa's Village to the Naughty or Nice Bar.
Tickets are required for peak times, which include opening night, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays after 4 p.m., Thursdays in December after 4 p.m., and daily from December 15 to December 31. A welcome note for families: children nine years and under always get in for free.
Canada's Wonderland Transforms into WinterFest
Just north of the city, Canada's Wonderland in Vaughan launches its WinterFest event on Saturday, November 15. This spectacular holiday celebration will run on select dates through to January 3, 2026, offering a dazzling array of festive entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy nine live shows, musical performances, and seven million twinkling lights. The park will feature family-friendly rides, festive food, and interactive attractions like ice skating on Snow Flake Lake. Guests can also take photo opportunities with the Elf on a Shelf and participate in cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus.
A central moment each evening is the lighting ceremony of a magnificent 50-foot-tall holiday tree. Heather Hill, the park manager, described WinterFest as a wonderful holiday tradition for guests of all ages, emphasizing the magical experience of seeing the entire park illuminated.
More information on WinterFest, including ticket details and skating reservations, is available on the Canada's Wonderland website. These two premier destinations are now open, ready to warm the spirits of festival-goers throughout the holiday season.
