Winter Festivals and Events in Downtown Toronto for 2024

As winter sweeps through Toronto, the city comes alive with festive events and lively celebrations. If you’re staying at one of the Downtown Toronto Hotels – such as the Hotel Victoria, Novotel Toronto Centre, Pantages Hotel, Radisson Blu, or The Anndore House – you’re in the heart of the action. With so many winter festivals and markets within walking distance or a short ride away, here are the top must-see winter events in downtown Toronto for 2024.

1. WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a magical winter wonderland for WinterFest, an immersive holiday experience for the whole family. This event features ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, holiday shows, exciting rides, and millions of lights illuminating the park.

Photo credit: Canada’s Wonderland

When: November 16th, 2024 – January 4th, 2025
Location: Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan, ON
Distance from all Downtown Toronto Hotels: Approximately 60-minute drive

2. Distillery Winter Village

The Distillery Winter Village, set in the historic Distillery District, is a must-see for its charming festive atmosphere filled with holiday shopping, food, and entertainment. With beautifully decorated streets and a large Christmas tree, it’s the ideal place for winter magic.

Photo credit: Distillery Winter Village

When: November 13th – December 23rd, 2024
Location: Distillery District, 55 Mill St
Distance from Hotel Victoria: 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk
Distance from Novotel Toronto Centre: 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk
Distance from Pantages Hotel: 8-minute drive or 25-minute walk
Distance from Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto: 10-minute drive
Distance from The Anndore House: 15-minute drive or 30-minute transit ride

3. One of a Kind Winter Show

Perfect for those who love supporting local artisans, the One of a Kind Winter Show is one of North America’s largest craft markets, offering unique handmade items from Canadian artists. This popular event is a fantastic option for holiday shopping.

Photo credit: @ooak_toronto on Instagram

When: November 21st – December 1st, 2024
Location: Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd
Distance from Hotel Victoria: 20-minute drive
Distance from Novotel Toronto Centre: 20-minute drive
Distance from Pantages Hotel: 25-minute drive
Distance from Radisson Blu: 10-minute drive
Distance from The Anndore House: 30-minute drive

4. The Wizard of Oz: A Holiday Musical Panto for All

Ross Petty’s classic holiday pantomime tradition continues with a new twist on The Wizard of Oz. This year’s performance is an entertaining family event, perfect for holiday laughs and fun.

Photo credit: Ontario Heritage Trust

When: December 6th, 2024 – January 5th, 2025
Location: Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge St
Distance from Hotel Victoria: 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk
Distance from Novotel Toronto Centre: 15-minute walk or 10-minute drive
Distance from Pantages Hotel: 5-minute walk
Distance from Radisson Blu: 12-minute drive
Distance from The Anndore House: 10-minute drive or 25-minute walk

5. Winter Craft Beer Festival

For beer lovers, the Winter Craft Beer Festival at Roundhouse Park is the perfect winter wonderland. Sample some of Ontario’s best craft beers against a festive backdrop.

When: TBD, February 2025
Location: Roundhouse Park, 255 Bremner Blvd
Distance from Hotel Victoria: 10-minute drive
Distance from Novotel Toronto Centre: 10-minute drive
Distance from Pantages Hotel: 15-minute drive
Distance from Radisson Blu: 5-minute walk
Distance from The Anndore House: 20-minute drive

6. Wavelength Winter Festival 2024

Wavelength Music Festival’s annual winter event brings an eclectic mix of curated concerts across downtown Toronto. Catch some of the city’s top indie performances in intimate venues.

Photo credit: @wavelengthmusic on Instagram

When: February 27th – March 1st, 2025
Location: Various venues across downtown Toronto
Distance from all Downtown Toronto Hotels: Varies by the venue, most within a 15-minute reach

7. Winterlicious 2024

Toronto’s Winterlicious returns, inviting food lovers to explore prix-fixe menus at some of the city’s top restaurants. It’s the perfect excuse to try something new or revisit a favourite dining spot during the chilly season.

Photo credit: @liciousto on Instagram

When: January 31st – February 14th, 2025
Location: Various restaurants across Toronto, TBD
Distance from all Downtown Toronto Hotels: Varies by the restaurant; many locations within a few kilometres of each hotel and often the in-house restaurants are participating as well!

Celebrate Winter in Style with Downtown Toronto Hotels

Winter 2024 in Toronto is packed with exciting events, festive markets, and cozy experiences. Whether you’re skating, taking in the beautiful holiday atmosphere, or enjoying the magical lights of the Distillery District, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season.

Stay at one of the best downtown Toronto hotels and enjoy easy access to the best winter activities the city has to offer.