Toronto Christmas Market 2025: Dates

Planning a holiday getaway to Toronto? Here’s the quick answer you came for: the city’s beloved market in the Distillery District—now branded “The Distillery Winter Village”—runs from November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026, with a big tree-lighting on opening night. Read on for exact hours, ticket rules, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

Key takeaways for travelers

• • 2025 season dates: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026.

• • Tree lighting: Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m. (opening night is ticketed).

• • Ticket rules: Required at peak times—opening night; Fridays–Sundays after 4 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4 p.m.; and daily from December 15–31 (also New Year’s Eve). Kids 9 and under are free.

• • Hours: Vendor cabins 12 p.m. daily; typically until 9 p.m. (Sun–Thu) and 10 p.m. (Fri–Sat). Shops open from 10 a.m.; closed on December 25.

• • Best crowd-free time: Weekday mornings/early afternoons and before 4 p.m. outside peak dates.

What is it like?

Picture twinkling lights over cobblestones, carolers drifting past red-brick Victorian buildings, and the scent of cinnamon, roasted nuts, and mulled wine in the air. Expect 40+ vendor cabins, themed outdoor bars, and photo-friendly moments around a towering Christmas tree—a classic European-style market with Toronto flair. 🎄✨

2025 dates, hours and ticketing at a glance

Season dates

November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026.

Daily hours

• • Shops and restaurants: from 10 a.m. daily.

• • Vendor/food cabins & entertainment: from 12 p.m. (noon). Sun–Thu generally until 9 p.m.; Fri–Sat until 10 p.m. (hours can vary by day).

• • Closed: December 25.

When you need tickets (and when you don’t)

• • Ticketed times: Opening night; Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4 p.m.; and daily from December 15–31 (including New Year’s Eve).

• • Free entry: All other times (e.g., weekday mornings/early afternoons). Kids 9 and under are always free.

• • Pricing (2025): General admission starts at $15 (+ fees/HST), with flexible and express options available.

• • Pro tip: Choose an earlier entry slot to avoid queues—once inside, you can stay as long as you like. ⏰

Best time to visit

If you love the buzz, go Friday or Saturday evening for peak festive energy (and plan for lines). For fewer crowds and easier photos, visit Tuesday–Thursday before 4 p.m., especially in late November or early December. Weekday afternoons are great for families and stroller navigating. 😊

How to reach the Distillery District

Transit first. Toronto’s TTC streetcars and buses run nearby, and rideshare drop-offs are straightforward. Parking is limited and fills quickly—factor that in if you’re driving, especially on weekend evenings.

From downtown, it’s a short rideshare or a pleasant brisk walk if you’re near St. Lawrence Market. Wear warm layers; the site is fully outdoors on cobblestones.

Weather overview (Nov–Jan)

• • Average highs: 28–39°F (-2–4°C)

• • Feels-like: Colder at night with wind off the lake—pack a hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated shoes.

• • Snow or slush: Common. Waterproof boots with good grip are your best friend.

Food and festive experiences

Warm up with mulled wine or hot cider, then hunt down winter comfort classics: poutine, spiral potatoes, stuffed waffles, and torched s’mores hot chocolate that tastes like a campfire in a cup. Don’t miss the photo ops—giant ornaments, wreaths, and that sparkling tree. 📸

Where to stay

• • Walkable base: St. Lawrence/Financial District hotels put you 10–20 minutes away.

• • Trendy scene: King West and Queen West for nightlife after the market.

• • Views and spas: Consider a downtown high-rise if you want a warm wind-down after the cold.

Costs (typical for a couple)

Tip: Budget extra for impulse purchases—handmade ornaments and small-batch chocolates are hard to resist. 🍫

Family and accessibility tips

• • Strollers: Go early (before 4 p.m.) for more space on cobblestones.

• • Warm-up spots: Step into cafés and shops to take the chill off.

• • Noise-sensitive visitors: Choose early weekdays; evenings get lively with music and crowds.

• • Mobility: Surfaces are uneven; wear supportive footwear and plan frequent breaks.

Common mistakes to avoid

• • Arriving at 7 p.m. on Saturday without tickets. Peak times require paid entry—book ahead.

• • Thinking it’s open on Christmas Day. It’s closed December 25.

• • Assuming kids pay. Children 9 and under are free.

• • Driving last minute. Parking is limited; use transit or rideshare.

Nearby alternatives and add-ons

• • St. Lawrence Market: Warm indoor food heaven, a short hop away.

• • Harbourfront/Queens Quay: Pretty winter strolls with lake views.

• • Kensington Market & Chinatown: Eclectic bites for a post-market meal.

Visa or entry requirements (for U.S. travelers)

Bring a valid passport; no visa is required for short tourist visits. If you’re flying, U.S. citizens do not need an eTA. Check your airline’s ID rules and arrive early for winter weather delays.

Safety tips & etiquette

• • Dress for the cold. Layers beat bulk—thermal base, fleece mid-layer, insulated coat.

• • Cashless is common. Most vendors accept cards and tap payments.

• • Be patient. Evenings can be shoulder-to-shoulder; step aside for photos to keep crowds moving.

FAQs

When are the 2025 market dates in Toronto’s Distillery District?
The 2025 season runs from November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026.

What time is the 2025 tree lighting in Toronto’s Distillery District?
Opening night’s tree lighting is Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m., and it’s a ticketed event.

Do I need tickets for the Toronto market on weekends in 2025?
Yes—tickets are required Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4 p.m.; also Thursdays in December after 4 p.m.; daily from December 15–31; and on New Year’s Eve. Other times are free. Kids 9 and under are free.

What are the daily hours for the Toronto holiday market in 2025?
Shops open from 10 a.m.; vendor cabins open from 12 p.m. (noon). Typical closing is 9 p.m. Sun–Thu and 10 p.m. Fri–Sat. Closed December 25.

How much are tickets for the 2025 Distillery Winter Village?
General admission starts at $15 before fees and tax, with flex and express options available.

Is the Toronto Christmas market suitable for kids and strollers?
Yes. Go on weekday afternoons for more space, dress warmly, and expect cobblestones.

Can I visit without tickets during the day?
Yes—outside the listed peak periods, daytime entry is free. Arrive before 4 p.m. on weekdays for the easiest access.

Conclusion

With illuminated streets, festive cabins, and plenty of cozy drinks, Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village is winter magic done right. Lock in tickets for peak evenings, or come earlier in the week to wander freely. Bundle up, charge your camera, and enjoy the glow—your holiday spirit will thank you. 🎁✨