It’s officially that time of year again.
The lights are on, the cobblestones are glowing, and Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village has kicked off for its 16th season — transforming one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods into a festive winter wonderland.

Recently named one of the best Christmas markets in the world by CNN, the Distillery Winter Village has become a global holiday destination. And lucky for us, it’s right here in our backyard.

This year’s celebrations launched on November 13 with the lighting of “Canada’s most iconic Christmas tree” — a 50-foot silver fir standing tall in the heart of the Distillery District.

The Winter Village runs until January 4, 2026 (closed on Christmas Day).

Here’s what to expect at Toronto’s most magical holiday tradition:

🎄 Endless Holiday Photo Ops

If you’re looking for Instagram gold, this is it.

The Distillery District is known for having some of Toronto’s best holiday backdrops, and 2025’s setup is bigger than ever. Expect:

• Thousands of sparkling lights

• Red, white & gold décor throughout the village

• The Heart of Christmas display

• Santa’s sleigh and reindeer

• The giant candy cane wreath

• Outdoor themed patios and bars

• The iconic Christmas countdown clock

🍸 Holiday Bars & Festive Drinks

The holidays aren’t just for kids — the Winter Village’s outdoor bars are back with a record nine themed bars this year.

Highlights include:

• Naughty or Nice Bar — under a massive heated tent serving mulled wine & hot sangria

• Peppermint Patio — candy-cane cocktails by the giant candy cane wreath

• Ugly Sweater Patio — come dressed for the theme

🍽️ Festive Food & Over 40 Vendors

Foodies, this year is packed.

Returning fan favourites include:

• Torched s’mores hot chocolate

• Japanese tacos

• Handmade dumplings

• Empanadas

• Pierogies

• Mini donuts

New additions this season:

• Santa Spuds (spiral potato on a stick)

• Robata-style skewers

• Dubai chocolates

• Craig’s Cookies pop-up

Plus the brand-new Chef’s Lane, turning Pure Spirit Mews into an elevated holiday dining experience with dishes from four top Canadian chefs:

• Bruno Feldeisen (The Great Canadian Baking Show) — candy cane cheesecake lollipops

• Claudio Aprile (MasterChef Canada) — hand-held holiday feast

• Nuit Regular (Pai, Kiin) — shrimp Tom Yum soup

• Eric Wong (MasterChef Canada winner) — spicy mala poutine

Shoppers will also find handmade jewelry, gourmet gifts, fashion, and unique artisan pieces in the seasonal vendor cabins.

🎅 Santa’s Village — Narnia Style

This year’s Santa’s Village has a brand-new theme inspired by Soulpepper Theatre’s production of Bad Hats’ Narnia.

Designed by Shannon Lea Doyle, the space transforms into a magical winter forest filled with icy lights, snow-covered trees, and immersive storytelling.
Runs Nov. 18 – Dec. 28 (tickets required).

🎶 Live Music from The McGregor Carollers

Roaming carollers will fill the district with classic holiday songs all season long, adding that perfect old-school Christmas charm.

👀 Bonus: Stranger Things 5 Immersive Experience

To mark the final season of Stranger Things, Netflix is bringing Hawkins to Toronto.

Step into the iconic Byers’ living room, complete with alphabet lights and nostalgic 80s supernatural vibes.
Find it on Gristmill Lane, west of the Clock Tower.

🎟️ Tickets & Hours

Tickets start at $15 and are required during busier times:

• Opening night

• Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays after 4 p.m.

• Thursdays in December after 4 p.m.

• Daily from Dec. 15–31

The Winter Village is located at 55 Mill St., steps from Union Station.

Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village is back — brighter, bigger, and more magical than ever. Whether you’re going for the tree, the food, the bars, the photos, or just a dose of holiday joy… this is the spot to kick off the season.