Not every holiday show needs to be family-friendly. Toronto has a lively scene of grown-up Christmas entertainment.
Comedy and improv
Toronto is a comedy city, and its improv and sketch theatres often stage holiday-themed shows in December. Look for seasonal revues at the city’s comedy clubs and theatres.
Cabaret, drag and burlesque
Expect festive drag brunches, holiday cabarets and burlesque revues in the Church-Wellesley Village, along Queen West and at downtown cabaret venues. Check age restrictions; many are 19+.
Jazz and lounge nights
Jazz clubs and hotel bars often host holiday-standard nights; pair with a cocktail at a Christmas pop-up bar.
Grown-up takes on classics
Candlelight concerts and adult-oriented performances of classic stories fill the calendar. See candlelight Christmas concerts and A Christmas Carol in Toronto. Even the panto is packed with jokes aimed at adults.
Toronto’s comedy scene
Toronto has produced many of North America’s best-known comedians, and its improv and sketch comedy scene is world-famous. In December, comedy clubs and theatres often stage holiday-themed shows, roasts of Christmas classics and improvised holiday stories. They’re a great night out with friends or coworkers, and tickets are often more affordable than big theatre productions.
Holiday drag brunches and cabaret
Drag brunches and holiday cabarets have become one of the most popular grown-up ways to celebrate in Toronto. Expect festive costumes, lip-sync numbers, audience interaction and plenty of laughs. The Church-Wellesley Village is the heart of the scene, but venues across the city host seasonal shows. Book ahead for December weekends.
A grown-up night out
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 6 p.m. | Festive cocktails at a Christmas pop-up bar |
| 7 p.m. | Dinner nearby |
| 9 p.m. | A comedy, cabaret or drag show |
| 11 p.m. | Nightcap or dancing |
See a Christmas night out in Toronto for more ideas.
Tips for adult shows
- Check age ratings: many shows are 18+ or 19+ and may include mature humour.
- Bring ID if the venue serves alcohol.
- Arrive early for general admission seating.
- Expect audience interaction at comedy, improv and drag shows; sit farther back if you’d rather not be involved.
- Tip performers at drag shows if you enjoy it.
Adult Christmas shows: FAQ
Are there Christmas shows for adults in Toronto? Yes: comedy, improv, cabaret, drag and burlesque shows, plus jazz and candlelight concerts.
What’s a good Christmas show for a work night out? A comedy or improv show is an easy crowd-pleaser.
Plan your night
See a Christmas night out in Toronto, Christmas date ideas and the full list of Christmas shows in Toronto.
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