By Jen Houston
While the snow makes it tempting to stay inside, nestled in front of the fireplace (or radiator) with a hot tea, part of the real beauty in this country is in braving the elements. Get out of the recycled air and embrace the Canadian winter in one of the city’s many outdoor wonderlands. See the Toronto Zoo in a new light on its “Christmas Treats Walk” ($10), December 26th at 10 a.m., where exhibited animals include the classic holiday reindeer and exotic Siberian tigers. Black Creek Pioneer Village’s “Christmas Remembered” ($13), and Downsview Park’s “Trail Of Lights” ($12) run until New Year’s; December 19th to the 23rd, our neighbours north of the city will be hosting “Village Lantern Tours” ($6) at the Markham Museum, at prices cheap enough to travel up there. Or if you’d prefer an event that’s totally free, drop by the Harbourfront Centre’s skating rink, which will be warm with outdoor fireplaces and performances by local artists.

http://www.TorontoZoo.com

http://www.BlackCreek.ca

http://www.DownsviewPark.ca

http://www.Markham.ca/Markham/Attractions/Museum

http://www.HarbourfrontCentre.com