The Nutcracker: by the National Ballet of Canada: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. December 4 to 31.

James Kudelka’s The Nutcracker ballet here in Toronto is considered one of the most beautiful productions in the world. This year celebrates 30th anniversary. The iconic tale adapted from E.T.A Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King takes audiences on an enchanted journey from a festive holiday party to the sparkling palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy. It’s a timeless story that is a tradition for men.

The Nutcracker Afternoon Tea: at Shangri-La Toronto until December 28

Whether you’re heading to The Nutcracker Ballet or not, Afternoon Tea at the luxurious Shangri-La Toronto is always an unforgettable treat. In celebration of the National Ballet’s 30th year of production, the chefs here have created an enchanting tea experience that will delight fans. Savour festive bites like Smoked Salmon Croissants, Brûléed Foie Gras, and Wild Mushroom Tartlets, followed by Buche de Noël, Mont Blanc, and Eggnog Ornaments. Paired with fine teas and a sparkling or mocktail, enjoy this magical celebration of holiday joy and artistry. Reservations are required.

The Sound of Music: Princess of Wales Theatre  on tour in Toronto until January 4

This iconic story gets a refresh in this new stage production that brings all the familiar songs to the stage. The story follows a free spirited Sister Maria who is sent to serve as governess for the Von Trapp family of seven children. The widowed father, a navy captain, is void of any emotion and affection since the death of the mother of his children. It’s also a politically charged time in Austria, and he needs to make the right choice for his country and his family. Sister Maria’s optimism breathes life back into Von Trapp’s and teaches them how to sing once again.

That Choir Carols: Church of St. Mary Magadalene, 477 Manning, December 19, 20, 21

Celebrate the season with this warm and enchanting concert of festive favourites, soaring choral classics, and a few joyful surprises — all performed by one of Toronto’s most acclaimed vocal ensembles. That Choir Carols is community based and is quickly becoming an annual tradition. It’s a beautiful way to embrace the spirit of the holidays!

Narnia: Soulpepper Theatre: (Distillery) until December 28

This new musical inspired by C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia comes to life as audiences step inside the magical world. This latest adaptation brought to us by Bad Hats Theatre and the creators of the Dora Award winning Peter Pan, and Alice In Wonderland is a holiday adventure for audiences of all ages. Get there a little earlier! The lobby of the theatre has been transformed into Narnia’s winter wonderland! BTW, Your tickets will also get you into the Distillery Winter Village!

Robin Hood: A Very Merry Family Musical: Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Toronto’s most cherished panto returns with an eclectic group of characters to entertain families! This holiday favourite follows the story of Robin Hood (sort of). Robin and her friends on a medieval romp through merry old Torontoshire! Journey through the lush forests of High Park, go head-to-head with the greedy Prince John, and rescue those in need, all while spending quality time with your loved ones. Abandon the rules of a stuffy theatrical experience – the panto is a place to laugh out loud, sing along to pop hits, boo the bad guys, and help out the heroes!

Enlightenment: Knox Presbyterian Church

Take a pause during the holiday season at this beautiful 360º sight and sound experience set in this historical church located downtown Toronto. Inspired by the classical music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and set to choreographed modern day light technology, this 30-minute site specific production brings wonder to the holiday season. Created with visual projection mapping, Enlightenment is a beautiful way to take in the magic of the season. This is the newest addition to other host cities, including Madrid, Munich, Frankfurt, Toulouse, Santiago de Chile, and many more!

City of Craft: The Theatre Centre, December 5th to 7th ($5 entry fee paid at the door)

Featuring over 60 local and Canadian makers from across Ontario and beyond, City of Craft returns with this cherished event. Featuring some familiar and new artisans as well as hobbyist craft artists across many disciplines. The first 100 people to enter the market on Saturday, December 6, will receive a specially designed and screen-printed tote bag (printed by Kid Icarus and designed by Christopher Rouleau) filled with gifts from artists and friends of City of Craft.) Complete list of makers can be found here.

Distillery Winter Village: until December 31 

Toronto has our very own twinkly outdoor Christmas market experience right in the Distillery District, and it’s become a heart-warming tradition for locals and visitors alike. The history and the cobblestone laneways brings all the charm this season with makers, vendors, and even some of the city’s most adored chefs are here to bring holiday cheer! Yes, it’s very popular (for good reason) so plan accordingly. Best times to visit are weekdays off-peak hours and before 4 pm (free entry but see details on the site). Dress accordingly! Hours and ticket details here.

Also, save the date for A Very Merry Mirvish Holiday Concert at The Distillery Winter Village on Sunday, December 7th  at 7 pm. This year’s one-night-only and free performance features cast members from four Mirvish musicals: &Juliet, The Sound of Music, We Will Rock You, and Shucked (opening in Toronto in 2026). They’ll perform hit numbers from their shows along with a selection of holiday classics. Arrive early for this standing room only outdoor concert around the iconic Christmas Tree!

Some other festive finds to look for at The Distillery? Visit Narnia at the Soulpepper Theatre, the Jellycats boutique at Bergo, visit the Stranger Things living room set, check out all the TikTok viral foods, fuel up with a delicious protein hot chocolate at Balzac’s, pick up a one of a kind jewellery piece made by Canadian designer Julie Greco, grab the best Advent Calendar from SOMA Chocolatier before they sell out! And don’t forget a little gift for your pooch from Sniffany’s.

One of a Kind Christmas Show: Enercare Centre (Exhibition Place) until December 7

Toronto’s largest maker and artisan show celebrates its 50th year! Visit hundreds of local and national Canadian artists, designers, makers, and food purveyors. Get hands on with DIY workshops. Explore the Main Stage happenings. Sample treats in the always popular Flavours district. Meet emerging and established makers at this truly inspiring Christmas marketplace. More details here.

The post 10 Unforgettable Experiences this Holiday Season in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAY CRAFT WORKSHOPS at ARCADIA EARTH (The Well): December 21 to January 5 (starting at 1 pm)

Arcadia Earth will be filled with festive fun and creative energy, as well as daily sustainable crafting experiences that will spark creativity and bring joy to visitors of all ages. Each day, guests can participate in innovative, eco-friendly holiday-inspired activities, including crafting cardboard and yarn ornaments, decorating wooden coasters, and making recycled star garlands. These hands-on activities are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit while embracing sustainability. Some of the activities include cardboard & yarn ornaments, egg carton penguins, salt painted snowflakes, scrap fabric trees and more. Visit their site for full schedule.

ROM for the Holidays: Royal Ontario Museum: December 26 to January 5

ROM for the Holidays is back for another year with enhanced programming, live performances, interactive activities, and hands-on fun. In addition to the daily fun, visit the three stunning special exhibitions including EARTH: An Immersive Journey, Nature in Brilliant Colour, and the Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

THE WIZARD OF OZ Ross Petty Panto with Canadian Stage: on until January 3 at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Our favourite Ross Petty panto musical theatre production returns to TorOZto this season bringing all the zany fun for kids of all ages. Julia Pulo (you might remember her in SIX The Musical) stars as Dorothy joining all-time cast favourites Dan Chameroy (Plumbum) and Eddie Glen (Scarecrow) in this comical twist in this classic tale.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING at Princess of Wales Theatre: (extended to August 30)

One of the most popular musicals roars once again in Toronto in this spectacular production of Disney’s The Lion King. Set in the African Savanna the story follows the life of Simba, a young lion destined to rule the kingdom. With incredible performers, innovative puppetry, extravagant costumes, and jaw-dropping set designs this production firmly secures its place as one of the top must-sees in the city.

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE with Cirque du Soleil: Meridian Hall until January 3

Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show was inspired by the classic Christmas poem “A Visit from Saint Nicolas” by Clement Clarke Moore. Memorable lines from this cherished classic bring to life this reimagined story about a jaded young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays. The production features thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack including holiday classics reinvented by Cirque du Soleil.

KIDS SCULA COOKING WORKSHOPS at Eataly: various dates and times

Nonna would be so proud of the young ones learning about and making Italian food. Kids can join in workshops from pasta making from scratch to pizza creations. Experienced Scula cooking workshops led by Eataly’s chefs. Take your creations home and also get a taste of one of Eataly’s popular dishes. Each ticket is valid for one parent and one child.

FREE ROLLER EXPRESS SKATING AT UNION STATION:

Back by popular demand! This indoor roller rink located right inside Toronto’s Union Station and it’s free! Guests must pre-register on their site and select a 2 hour time slot. Free skate rentals too. Note there are special events planned on some dates and designated all ages skate times. See the site for all details.

THE CULTURE OF HIP-HOP at the AGO: opens to the public January 7 (currently open to annual pass holders and members) *GREAT FOR TEENS

Co-organized by the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Saint Louis Art Museum, The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century,  makes its only Canadian stop at the AGO. Highlighting hip hops ongoing conceptual and material innovation, the exhibition features fashion, consumer marketing, music, videos and objects in dialogue with paintings, sculpture, poetry, photography and multi-media installations including Toronto and International influentials. Great for families with teens!  Tip: Ontarians ages 25 and under are eligible for a free annual pass! See the AGO site for more details on memberships and annual passes.

DISTILLERY WINTER VILLAGE: Distillery District until December 31

It’s a winter wonderland right in the city! With twinkly lights, shops and more. Kids and teens will love all the fun foods to explore (yes, they are now officially TikTok trending!) including S’mores Hot Chocolate, Christmas Poutine, Mini Pancakes, and so much more. Visit Santa (at Soul Pepper Theatre) indoors and you may even spot his elves and a few special events happening throughout. Of course, the massive centre Christmas tree is a real draw. We even spotted Jelly Cats here. Note: ticketed and timed entry.

ILLUMINARIUM AT DISTILLERY DISTRICT:

Explore the wonder of the festive season as Illuminarium transports you to three different experiences (tickets sold separately) Discover the world of Lite-Brite, with thousands of colourful lights. Have fun exploring, playing games and creating your own art in our most gamified immersive experience yet! The new show features an immersive narrative with interactive lights, gaming stations and friendly hosts. SPACE is an out-of-this-world immersive experience, take an extraordinary journey across the galaxy. Fly through a technicolour nebula, kick up dust on the moon, see Saturn’s rings up close, and weave through an asteroid belt. The third experience is Journey to OZ! Step into the enchanting world of Oz in a 60-minute, 360° animated musical that breathes new life into the beloved story. Walk the Yellow Brick Road alongside Dorothy, Toto, and friends as you encounter magical places, face fun challenges, and discover your true Oz identity with a live encounter with the Wizard himself!

Holiday Lights at Casa Loma: until January 4

The magic of the holidays comes to life in this stunning Winter Wonderland walk-through experience on the grounds of Toronto’s majestic castle. Meander along the garden path and through the tunnels and stables in this family-friendly holiday favourite. Warm up mid way with hot chocolate, apple cider and other festive fare. Meet elves, nutcracker soldiers, magicians, acrobats, musicians, Mr. Scrooge, Mrs. Claus and even the Grinch! A visit isn’t complete without a visit with Santa in his grand ballroom.

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS: Ongoing

Challenge your perspective in this fun and science-based museum filled with mind-bending installations, captivating rooms, and optical illusions that is sure to inspire conversation. Learn the difference of what you see and what you think you see.

SKATE TRAIL AT THE BENTWAY: beginning December 21 till February 17

One of Toronto’s favourite outdoor skate trails opens at The Bentway. Bring your skates and lace up to take to the ice under the Gardiner. The 220 metre outdoor figure-eight trail is family friendly and no reservations are required. Need rentals? See their site for details. Look out also for the annual Polar Skate and free hot chocolate dates!

WICKED MOVIE SINGALONG SCREENINGS: movie theatres across the city

You heard that right! Designated singalong screenings of Jon M. Chu’s WICKED will begin on December 25. Feel free to unleash your inner Elphaba and Glinda with other adoring fans. Now if someone could also offer dance classes to Loathing, please?

The post Family Fun Stuff to do in Toronto during the Holiday season! appeared first on Toronto Guardian.