The holidays are one of the best times to get out and enjoy your neighbourhood. Here is a round-up of the biggest events happening across the GTA this November and December. I will keep this page updated as more 2026 dates are announced.
Toronto
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair: November 6 to 15
Now in its 104th year at Exhibition Place, the Royal brings farming, food and world-class show jumping together under one roof. Families can visit the petting farm, catch the mini chuckwagon races and animal shows, and pick up gifts at the expanded Holiday Market. Western Day and the Royal Rodeo close out the fair on November 15. Tickets are available at royalfair.org.
Photo: Julio César Mercado on Unsplash
The Distillery Winter Village: November 12 to January 3
Toronto's favourite Christmas market returns to the Distillery District (55 Mill Street) on November 12, with the tree lighting at 6 p.m. on opening night. Entry is free Monday to Wednesday until December 13, and before 4 p.m. on most days. Evenings and weekends need a timed ticket bought online, and kids nine and under get in free. New this year: an immersive Nutcracker experience, and Santa's Village moves indoors to Soulpepper Theatre. Getting there is easy on the 504A King streetcar to Distillery Loop.
Photo: Tiago Louvize on Unsplash
Cavalcade of Lights and the Santa Claus Parade
Toronto's official Christmas tree lighting at Nathan Phillips Square usually kicks off the season in late November, followed by nightly lights and skating on the rink all holiday long. The Original Santa Claus Parade also winds through downtown in late November. 2026 dates have not been officially confirmed yet, so check toronto.ca and thesantaclausparade.com before you go.
Peel Region: Mississauga and Brampton
Mississauga's Light Up the Square brings a tree lighting and Santa Claus parade to Celebration Square, and Brampton's Winter Lights Festival fills downtown with a tree lighting, free rides, photos with Santa and skating at Gage Park. Both usually happen in late November. Watch mississauga.ca and brampton.ca for the 2026 dates.
Vaughan
The City of Vaughan's annual Winterfest is a free family favourite with outdoor winter fun at City Hall. Check vaughan.ca/Winterfest for 2026 dates and activities.
Simcoe County: Barrie
Barrie's Santa Claus Parade has been a local tradition since 1949. It winds through downtown and ends with the Noella Tree Lighting at Meridian Place, and is usually held in mid-November. Confirm the 2026 date with the Barrie Chamber of Commerce or barrie.ca.
Thinking about a move?
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Anthony Ochoa, Sales Representative, Red House Realty Inc.