With December just a week away, Toronto is beginning to embrace the holiday season, with no shortage of events leading up to the jolliest season of the year.
From Toronto’s signature Santa Claus parade and artisan holiday markets, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the festive season. For those not looking to embrace the holidays just yet, there are also several ways to unwind and enjoy the weekend in the city, from a comedy show to a pop-themed bingo night.
FRIDAY, NOV. 21
Taste of Iceland Toronto
Transport yourself to Iceland without the need to take a plane, as the Taste of Iceland tour makes its final stop in Toronto this weekend. The event is bringing in the best of Icelandic culture, with three days of events and activities that celebrate with food, music, nature, literature, design, and more.
This Friday, the events include a reception led by plastic-free design startup DYPI, an Icelandic lunch experience with live cooking demos, an exclusive prix fixe menu, and a performance by Icelandic jazz legends Óskar Guðjónsson and Skúli Sverrisson.
All events within the Taste of Iceland take place at a different location and at different times. For a full schedule of events and more information, visit the Inspired by Iceland website.
GAGA GIRLS: A Lady Gaga & Mean Girls Themed Drag Bingo
On Fridays, we wear pink… and listen to Gaga’s best hits! At this Drag bingo night iconic movie Mean Girls meets the fierce world of Lady Gaga, with incredible performances, Gaga anthems, lots of laughs, and bingo cards with prizes. Whether you are a Monster or a Plastic, there is something for every pop lover at his bingo party like no other.
This bingo night is happening at 590 King St. W. from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., and tickets go for $7. For more information, visit Eventbrite.
Intercultural Singles & Marriage-Minded Mixer
It’s cuffing season out there, and Torontonians that are still on the lookout for a special someone to spend the holidays with might find their next boo at this event. This intercultural singles mixer hopes to bring together lovers who are looking for something serious and open to marriage. Unlike speed dating events, this mixer encourages couples to get to know each other more deeply and form real connections, while maintaining a respectful and welcoming atmosphere.
This singles mixer is happening at Eataly on 55 Bloor St. W. from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and tickets are limited and go for $22. For more information, visit Eventbrite.
SATURDAY, NOV. 22
Made in Ontario Holiday Artisan Market
Holiday shop while celebrating Ontario local creatives at this non-partisan market hosted by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. For one day, Queen’s Park is transforming into a festive wonderland, featuring a marketplace of local vendors, where you can shop cozy winter accessories, stuffed toys, handmade chocolates, confectionaries and much more. Browse away while sipping on a delicious beverage by Quorum Cafe, and enjoy the festive charm.
This event is taking place at the Ontario Legislative Building on 111 Wellesley St. W. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and entrance is free. Note that airport-like security screening is expected, with those 16 and up being required to present a photo ID before entering. For more information, visit the Legislative Assembly of Ontario website.
2025 Barbados Independence Gala Toronto
Celebrate Barbados’ 59th year of independence at a gala event that brings the island vibes to the city. This event promises a whole evening of pride and joy with a range of all-inclusive experiences, including delicious goods, lively music and cultural festivities. Enjoy a three-course meal with an open bar, with performances from Bajan band 2Mile Hill, songstress Terrencia Coward, Canadian artist Kristin “Lasonta” Ward & The Elements, and much more.
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This gala is happening at 55 Barber Greene Rd. from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., with tickets going for $175. For more information, visit Eventbrite.
Maker Bean Holiday Maker Market 2025
The Holiday Maker Market is back for its seventh year, with a drop-in market full of local artisans, and tons of activities for kids and adults. This year, the drop-in market is offering a new maker activity, with the opportunity for attendees to make their own laser-cut wreath from 12 to 2 p.m. Plus, the event will feature a food drive for local community centre Oasis Dufferin for a chance to win a raffle basket, filled with items donated by vendors.
This free event is happening at The Maker Bean Cafe on 1052 Bloor St. W. on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the Maker Bean website.
SUNDAY, NOV. 23
The Original Santa Claus Parade
Embrace the Christmas spirit, as Santa Claus takes over Toronto’s streets alongside Mrs. Claus, along with floats, elves, and marching bands, signaling that the holidays are just around the corner in the city.
The oldest Santa Claus parade is back for its 121 years, taking off from Christie Pitts at 12:30 p.m., and passing through Toronto’s most iconic landmarks, including the Royal Ontario Museum and CF Eaton Centre before ending at the St. Lawrence Market. The highly-anticipated holiday event can be watched in person, and will also be streamed on Citytv and Citytv+ for those who want to embrace festivities without stepping out in the cold.
For more information about this event visit The Santa Claus Parade website.
My DUMBEST Decision – A Standup Comedy Show
Unwind and let loose before the beginning of another week by laughing out loud at one of Toronto’s best Sunday comedy shows. At My Dumbest Decision, an incredible lineup of standup comedians takes the stage to talk about some of their dumbest choices and regrets that are guaranteed to make you laugh. This Sunday, the show features comedians Moe Sita, Sharmaine Ehi, Darren Leo, and Marwan Shaffey.
This event is happening at 1051 Bloor St. W. from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and spots can be reserved for free. Note that the show is only open for guests 18 and above. For more information, check out Eventbrite.
Shoppers Drug Mart – Free photos with Santa
It is definitely starting to look a lot like Christmas in Toronto this weekend, as Shoppers Drug Mart takes over The Well to host yet another magical holiday experience. Prepare to embrace the holiday season at this Santa’s Workshop, filled with interactive activities, gift inspirations, holiday surprises, and a complimentary professional photo with Santa himself!
This event is happening at the Lower Level of The Well on 468 Front St. W., and is taking place from Nov. 20 to Nov. 30 at various times. This weekend, the festivities will take place on Friday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit The Well’s website.
