This holiday season, Little Jamaica is getting a festive Caribbean twist. From December 19 to 24, 2025, Toronto will host its first-ever Caribbean Christmas Village, transforming the new Fairbank LRT Station Plaza at Eglinton West and Dufferin into a vibrant winter marketplace filled with island culture, food, music, and family-friendly fun.

Created by community advocate and cultural producer Lori Beazer, the six-day celebration brings together Black and Caribbean vendors, artists, chefs, and performers to showcase the warmth and spirit of the islands during the holidays. Tiny wooden vendor cabins and Caribbean-inspired décor will set the tone for a one-of-a-kind festive experience.

Visitors can shop the holiday vendor marketplace, featuring books, candles, beauty and wellness products, artisan crafts, and unique gifts from Caribbean makers. Food lovers won’t want to miss the Taste the Caribbean Food Sampling Hub, offering traditional favourites like pepperpot soup, Haitian soup joumou, cornmeal porridge, and rum cake on a first-come, first-served basis. Opening night will also spotlight Caribbean “Cocoa Tea,” a nostalgic holiday staple.

The Village kicks off on Friday, December 19, with “Light Up Little Jamaica” from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., featuring a live performance by Nichelle Bernard, plus a special appearance by “Kente Claus,” a Caribbean-inspired holiday character bringing joy and storytelling to the plaza. Throughout the week, reggae and steel pan performances will keep the atmosphere lively and warm.

Family programming is a big focus, including a Children’s Charm Making Workshop led by ArtStarts on Sunday, December 21, and Toronto’s first Caribbean Christmas Gingerbread House Competition on Christmas Eve.

Beyond the festivities, the Caribbean Christmas Village is about revitalizing Little Jamaica after years of LRT construction — bringing foot traffic back, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the neighbourhood’s rich cultural legacy.

“Little Jamaica deserves celebration, investment, and joy,” says Beazer. “This Village brings back what makes this neighbourhood special — community, culture, food, music, and pride.”

The Caribbean Christmas Village is shaping up to be one of Toronto’s most meaningful and joyful holiday experiences — and organizers are still welcoming musical artists interested in animating the town square.

📍 Location: Fairbank LRT Station Plaza (Eglinton Ave W & Dufferin St)
🗓 Dates: December 19–24, 2025
🎄 Admission: Free