Toronto 
Christmas might still be a few months away, but Toronto is already gearing up for one of its biggest holiday traditions.
Credit: Distillery District
The Distillery Winter Village, formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market, will return to the Distillery Historic District from November 13, 2025, to January 4, 2026, and tickets are now available online.
Spanning 13 acres of cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial buildings, the event draws about one million visitors each year, making it one of the busiest holiday markets in the country.
Opening Night Tradition
The season begins on Thursday, November 13 at 6 p.m. with the lighting of what organizers call Canada’s most iconic Christmas tree. Thousands of people are expected to gather with Santa to count down before the lights switch on. Opening night profits will go to local charities. When the festival wraps up in January, the tree will be donated to Habitat for Humanity GTA, which will recycle it into mulch for 60 new homes planned in 2026.
What’s New This Year
Credit: Distillery District
Among the highlights this season is a redesigned Santa’s Village with a Narnia-inspired theme, roaming carollers, and themed outdoor cocktail bars. Visitors can expect dozens of vendor cabins offering holiday treats, gifts, and returning favourites like Cluny’s s’mores hot chocolate. More details on entertainment, Boxing Week activities, and New Year’s Eve plans will be released in October.
Rik Ocvirk, Vice President of The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director of Experiences and Events, says launching ticket sales now helps people plan ahead. “Many of The Distillery Winter Village favourites are back this year…but we’ve also got some exciting new experiences in store that we can’t wait to share,” he said.
Tickets and Admission
Tickets are required during peak periods, including Opening Night, Fridays to Sundays after 4 p.m., Thursdays in December after 4 p.m., and daily from December 15 to 31. Children nine and under are free. Prices start at $15 plus fees and HST.
