The festive spirit is in the air! From a classical music concert conducted by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra to a wintry celebration at the ROM, the holiday season has taken over the city, and our Best Bets have got you covered on some events to check out. Some options to consider include a Ms. Lauryn Hill pop-up and a first-ever Caribbean Christmas Village.
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Messiah
Toronto’s grand holiday tradition is back, with the TSO’s rendition of Handel’s Messiah. The trumpets will sound, the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir will sing, and a group of soloists will belt out to a repertoire that channels the nativity story. Expect an inspiring night of music that captures the holiday spirit and will transport you to a resplendent place of peace and beauty. More info.
When: December 16-21
Where: Roy Thomson Hall
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Ms. Lauryn Hill – Toronto Pop-Up
After playing an intimate show at the Mod Club and preparing for her Massey Hall show that is happening tonight, Ms. Lauryn Hill will stick around for a pop-up tomorrow. The day-long event promises to be an exciting one for fans of the hip-hop artist, with merch available on site and further details about the pop-up being kept under wraps. Based on Hill’s announcement, the event will be a place for people to connect over their shared love of music and will likely operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
When: December 17
Where: It’s Ok* Studios
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Glow & Glide
Ring in the holidays by gliding through the YZD Plaza skating rink, which opens this Friday. The plaza will be glowing with festive lights and there will be cheerful music to keep you in a jolly mood while skating. There are affordable rentals on site and attendees are welcome to participate in daily drop-in arts programming led by North York Arts inside the YZD Experience Centre. There will also be hot drinks and delicious snacks to keep you warm and cozy at the city’s most spirited gathering. More info.
When: December 19
Where: YZD Plaza
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Winter Festivals of Light
Get ready for a wintry edition of ROM After Dark, featuring live performances, selfie stations, and DJs setting the tone with disco and pop tunes. The ROM will have a whole new glow, with special appearances from playful roaming acts. Snap a picture with the most fashionable Santa in the city, watch a themed performance from drag artist Gila Munster, and sing along to holiday tunes with the Alpine Merry Sheep Choir. More info.
When: December 19
Where: Royal Ontario Museum
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Caribbean Christmas Village
Toronto will launch its first-ever Caribbean Christmas Village, bringing a vibrant cultural celebration to the 6ix. With Caribbean food, music, and culture front and centre, this event will bring the community together and spotlight local makers. As vendors, artisans, culinary talents, and families join in on the fun, this celebration is bound to capture the spirit of the islands right in the heart of Eglinton West. Don’t forget to savour traditional island dishes at the sampling hub, watch a live performance from Nichelle Bernard on opening night, and participate in a Caribbean Christmas gingerbread house competition.
When: December 19-24
Where: Fairbank LRT Station Plaza
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Jingle Bell Hop-Ugly Sweater Party
Waterworks Food Hall and Ace Hotel Toronto are partnering for a two-venue holiday gathering where everyone is encouraged to wear their ugly sweaters. A ticket grants access to both spaces, which are a street away from each other. Toronto favourites SAVV and MANALANG will set the tone for the festivities at Waterworks, while GIMMEMAR and TDESU carry the night forward in the Ace Hotel’s Lobby. More info.
When: December 20
Where: Waterworks Food Hall and Ace Hotel Toronto
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Winter BLOOMS: Circus at the Garden
Toronto’s top aerial artists will captivate audiences with this indoor/outdoor performance at the Toronto Botanical Garden. Rosie Petals welcomes you to a magical Winter Solstice Celebration, where stories of nature and art come alive through circus acts. Immerse in these winter tales featuring aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, and clowns. Audience members are welcome to meet the cast after the show. More info.
When: December 20-21
Where: Toronto Botanical Garden
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Rock the Halls!
Enjoy this festive music night with powerhouse performances and support a noble cause. Joyful chaos, community spirit, and holiday magic await at Rock the Halls!, with this year’s lineup including rising stars and a special headlining set from YASSiN & Sean Terrio. Priyanka’s cheery drag performance also promises to be one of the evening’s highlights. By securing a ticket to this unforgettable celebration, you’ll be supporting the Daily Bread Food Bank, which helps to fight food insecurity during one of the most critical times of the year. More info.
When: December 20
Where: El Mocambo
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Winter Skating Opening Weekend
A skating trail is opening this weekend, granting people the opportunity to glide under the city lights. Indulge in a cozy skate-and-sip venture, featuring free skate rentals, hot drinks, maple taffy, and photo moments provided by Batiste Dry Shampoo and Hero Patches. There will be some samples of Hero’s Might Patches and Batiste’s word-leading dry shampoo on site for those looking to clear their skin and freshen up their hair after skating. More info.
When: December 20-23
Where: The Bentway Skate Trail
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