The holiday season is in full swing, with pop-up markets and seasonal events happening in Toronto every week up until Christmas Day. Although our curated list of holiday markets has got you covered with the ideal places to shop gifts and enjoy seasonal goodies, our Best Bets for this week have additional event options to consider. From a nostalgic dining experience to the return of a ballet classic, here are some recommendations for what to see and do in the city.
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Fleurs de Villes Noël
Toronto’s favourite florists created a seasonal trail located in the Bloor-Yorkville region, with 25 stunning floral installations to check out. Enjoy specialty cocktails, shop blooms at the floral markets, and listen to carolers perform holiday tunes while strolling through the neighbourhood. Most installations are open from 10am-9pm daily, and visitors can enter the ‘Smile and Share’ contest for the chance to win a gorgeous, $250 holiday bouquet. More info.
When: December 3-7
Where: Bloor-Yorkville Neighbourhood
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Rewind at Cassette: A Dinner Show With Tynomi Banks
For those looking for an all-out dining experience, Cassette, a retro-inspired restaurant at Gladstone House, will host a drag show with the legendary Tynomi Banks. Good vibes and nostalgic hits will set the tone for a night of entertainment and delicious dishes. Tynomi shares a music selection from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s, picking the perfect tunes to get people in a good mood and move from their seats. More info.
When: December 4
Where: Cassette
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City of Craft
Toronto’s beloved holiday market returns, featuring 60 Canadian makers from across Ontario and beyond. From familiar vendors to new artisans, you’ll see artwork from a variety of practices. Shop DIY holiday gifts, take small zines home, and find contemporary crafts at a community event that supports local talent. The market will also offer baked goods by Baker In Residence Akash Swar, adding a bit of sweetness to the shopping experience. More info.
When: December 5-7
Where: The Theatre Centre
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The Nutcracker
The National Ballet of Canada is celebrating 30 magical years of The Nutcracker, choreographed by James Kudelka. This holiday favourite production is set at a Christmas Eve party in a 19th-century barn, as siblings Misha and Marie undergo a mystical adventure alongside animals and toys that come to life when the clock strikes twelve. With Tchaikovsky’s famous score, stunning sets and costume designs, and a long-standing legacy, this ballet will continue to enchant audiences who are both seeing it for the first time or revisiting it year after year. More info.
When: December 5-31
Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
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Krampus Ball
Although many might be drawn to the holidays for the cheery seasonal decor and ambiance, others find this time of the year perfect for an eccentric celebration. Back for its 13th edition, the annual Krampus Ball will feature a stage show with a packed lineup of music, movement, and avant-garde character performers. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes that are haunting and spirited, with horns being a go-to accessory. More info.
When: December 6
Where: The Opera House
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The Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market
The Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market is a holiday hot spot, with weekend-long opportunities to shop, sip, and sample. Each admission grants you all-inclusive access to drink tastings that range from wines to spirits, food samplings, shopping discounts, live music, and holiday backdrops. Discover unique gifts, buy from 60+ local vendors, and enjoy a complimentary hot chocolate 3-5 pm. Part of the proceeds will be directed to Second Harvest, with attendees also being welcome to donate non-perishable food items for those in need. More info.
When: December 6-7
Where: 388 Carlaw Ave #207
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