Between December and March, it's winter in Canada. It is the period when skiing in the resorts of Whistler e Montrealskiing in Whistler and Montreal, snowmobiling in Alberta, ice skating in Toronto and carriage rides through the dense snow that spreads across the Arctic Tundra and the Boreal Forest are some of Canada's top winter attractions.
But without a doubt, the big event of this time in Canada is Christmas. There, as in Brazil, the tradition follows the same script: exchange of gifts, family lunch, assembly of the Christmas tree (with real pine trees!), among other activities.
The difference is only in the details. In Canada, for example, the 24th of December is practically a day like the others, since most people work (at least in the morning) and prefer to leave the ritual of opening gifts and family lunch for the 25th.
A "Christmas of Lights" is how this period in Canada can be defined.
Toronto Christmas attractions in December
In Toronto, some of the main attractions are its lighting, with a light show on the trees and the main buildings of the city; the assembly of the Christmas tree and the skating rink at Nathan Phillips Square; the famous "selfies" on the facade of Hudson's Bay, among other events that attract millions of tourists every year, in search of one of the most charming and glittering Christmases on the planet.
Officially, the Christmas period in Toronto begins at the end of November - with Cavalcade Lights - but, well before that, a series of events and attractions usually anticipate the party.
1. Santa Claus Parade
Every year, on the 16th of November, this is considered one of the biggest celebratory events in North America.
As the name implies, it is a parade that goes through the streets of Toronto, with about 1,600 volunteers, 30 floats, 24 bands and more than 500,000 people, announcing the arrival of Father Christmas since 1905, when it began to be part of Canada's Christmas calendar.
The event is free, starts at 750 Bloor St. and ends outside St Lawrence Market.
Toronto hotel
Toronto, the bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture and exciting attractions, offers a wide array of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. If you're seeking a serene escape away from the city's hustle and bustle, the Millcroft Inn & Spa Village Of Alton is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Nestled in the picturesque Village of Alton, a short drive from Toronto, the Millcroft Inn & Spa offers a tranquil retreat amid natural beauty. This historic inn boasts comfortable rooms, spa treatments, and gourmet dining, all set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. It's an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone yearning for a peaceful respite.
For those who prefer a more personal touch, the bed and breakfast scene in Toronto is flourishing. These charming establishments offer a cozy, home-like atmosphere, making them perfect for travelers looking for personalized experiences. You'll find many delightful Bed and Breakfasts in Toronto that provide warm hospitality, unique decor, and a chance to connect with local hosts.
Whether you're enchanted by the tranquility of Millcroft Inn & Spa Village Of Alton or the cozy comfort of Toronto's bed and breakfasts, your stay in this vibrant city promises to be unforgettable. Choose the accommodation that aligns with your travel preferences, and let Toronto's charm and hospitality leave you with lasting memories.
2. Santa Brunch Cruise
This is a kind of cruise on the imposing Lake Ontario, in the company of Father Christmas, during which the famous "Canadian brunch" - a snack usually served between breakfast and lunch (an English tradition of the 19th century) - is offered, in addition to a series of activities that make the joy, especially, of children.
It takes place between 19 and 20 December, for US$47 (adults) and US$25 (children).
3. Christmas Markets
Christmas Markets are centuries-old traditions from the European continent, and in Toronto they take place every year between 20 (or 28) November and 20 (or 21) December, in the legendary Distillery District, the area of a former distillery (at the time, the largest in the world) transformed into an event venue and Unesco World Heritage Site.
During the period, there are events, lunches, concerts, tournaments, trade in Christmas products, among other typical attractions of this period.
Admission: US$ 5, always on Saturdays and Sundays.
Toronto in December is beautiful!
4. Christmas Lights
Without a doubt, Christmas lighting can be considered a separate event during the period, and it is what makes Christmas in Toronto considered one of the best in the American continent.
Trees and buildings are illuminated in a special way that thrills and captivates the hearts of individuals of all ages.
Areas such as Yonge St., Nathan Phillips Square, Yorkville, and even The Bay's famous storefront are illuminated in what is considered a Christmas event in itself.
5. Cavalcade of Lights
This is perhaps the most traditional event in the city of Toronto. It is a light and fireworks show that takes place in front of the city hall (Nathan Phillips Square area), to mark the beginning of the Christmas celebrations.
It's a free event and takes place on 28 November, but the fireworks are only set off at around 6pm.
At the end of November, in front of Toronto City Hall, the Cavalcade Light takes place, one of the largest fireworks shows in America.
6. Christmas Choir
The Christmas carol is a tradition inherited from English ancestors and is part of the Christmas tradition in the city of Toronto in December, as well as across Canada.
It is very common for groups, families, community associations, churches, schools and various other institutions to keep their choirs very sharp throughout the year, for the great Christmas performances in various spaces of the city.
In addition, the children and adults who go door to door performing and the Toronto Christmas Market choir reinforce the tradition.
7. The Nutcracker
Also every year, between December 12 and January 3, the prestigious Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts hosts the ballet show "The Nutcracker", or simply "The Nutcracker".
This monument of the performing arts was written by the no less moumental Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1843), inspired by the book "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King" by Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffman (1776-1822), and tells the story of Clara and her Nutcracker doll in a fantastic world of dreams.
Tickets cost between US$50 and US$140 per person.
8. Christmas Decoration
Toronto's Christmas decorations are among the most beautiful and illuminated in the world. The "official tree", located in Nathan Phillips Square (in front of City Hall), with its almost 18 metres and about 800 ornaments, is considered one of the "wonders of Canadian Christmas".
However, the decoration of places such as the Eaton Centre, the Toronto Christimas Market, Yonge St. and Casa Loma (an imposing medieval-style castle), complete the magic of this period in Canada.
8. Polar Bear Dip
Plunging into Lake Ontario at a temperature between -2 and -4°C with virtually no clothes on may sound like some kind of masochistic ritual for self-punishment, but it is actually one of the most popular New Year's Eve rituals in Toronto, as well as across Canada.
The event takes place every 1 January, and in Toronto attracts around 600,000 participants who, in addition to helping maintain the tradition, also raise funds for charities.
The challenge of falling into the near-freezing waters of Lake Ontario is one of Canada's premier Christmas events.
? Read also: What to do in Toronto: 2-day itinerary
10. Santa Experience
The visit to Father Christmas in Canada is known as the "Santa Experience". It is the occasion when this tradition is renewed, especially in the hearts of children, for whom the "good old man" is, yes, a sweet reality.
The visit to the Sherway Gardens shopping centre in Toronto is considered one of the best, because, although paid, it does not disappoint visitors. There are about 45 minutes of photos, requests, games, interactivity, among other experiences that are nothing like a simple timed visit to a shopping mall Father Christmas.
Temperatures below zero mean that Canadian Christmas still holds the magic of this date. But we would like you to tell us about your experiences in a comment below.
Happy travelling!
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