Candlelight concerts have become one of Toronto’s most popular holiday date nights: a string quartet or pianist playing Christmas classics in a historic venue lit by hundreds of (flameless) candles. In December 2026, Toronto has several holiday editions, including Christmas Classics and Christmas Carols on Strings, with dates around December 11 and 17 to 19.
What to expect
- About an hour of live music
- Christmas classics and carols arranged for strings or piano
- Historic or atmospheric venues across the city, filled with candles
- Seated tickets sold by zone; the venue is usually revealed when you book
Dates
Candlelight concerts in Toronto are sold through Fever, which lists December 2026 holiday performances on several evenings, including dates around December 11 and December 17 to 19. Check Fever’s Toronto Candlelight page for the full schedule, venues and prices.
The City’s Cavalcade of Lights opening night has also featured a candlelight concert under the stars in past seasons. Cavalcade of Lights
Who are candlelight concerts for?
Candlelight concerts are designed to be accessible: no classical music knowledge needed, a short running time and familiar tunes. They work well for:
- Date nights: an intimate, atmospheric hour of music. Romantic Christmas in Toronto
- Gifts: tickets make an easy experience gift. Experience gifts
- Families with older kids, depending on the venue’s age policy (check before booking).
- Visitors looking for a festive evening that’s different from a big show.
Choosing seats
Tickets are usually sold in zones, with the front zones costing more. In smaller venues the difference in sound is modest, so the cheaper zones can be good value. Arrive early, as seats within a zone are often first come, first served.
Before and after the concert
Make an evening of it with dinner beforehand and a walk to see the lights afterwards. Venues are often in historic churches or heritage buildings, so check the location when you book and plan transit accordingly. Coat racks can be limited, so dress in layers you can keep on your lap.
Other festive concerts in Toronto
If you love seasonal music, Toronto offers plenty more:
- The Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s holiday programme. TSO holiday concerts
- Messiah performances from the TSO and Tafelmusik. Messiah in Toronto
- Choir concerts and carol services in churches across the city. Christmas choir concerts
- Free concerts in the PATH, churches and public spaces. Free Christmas concerts
Candlelight concerts: FAQ
Are the candles real? The candles used at these concerts are typically flameless LED candles.
How long are candlelight concerts? About an hour, with no intermission.
Is there a dress code? No. Smart-casual is common, and many people dress up a little for the holidays.
Tips
- Book early for weekend dates; the best zones sell first.
- Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early; doors close when the music starts.
- Make it a date: pair it with dinner or a Christmas pop-up bar. Christmas date ideas
More holiday music: Messiah in Toronto · Christmas choir concerts · free Christmas concerts
