Downtown parking at Christmas is busy and pricey. Here’s how to plan.
Our top tip: take transit
The TTC, GO Transit and walking are usually faster and cheaper than driving downtown in December. See the TTC holiday schedule.
Green P parking
Green P lots and garages, run by the Toronto Parking Authority, are found across the city. Use the Green P app to find spots and pay by phone. Expect higher event rates near busy venues.
Event by event
- Distillery Winter Village: limited paid parking nearby fills fast on weekends. Transit (the 504 King streetcar to the Distillery Loop) or walking from St. Lawrence Market is easier. See the Distillery tips.
- Santa Claus Parade: major road closures on the route; driving downtown that day is not recommended. See the parade route.
- Nathan Phillips Square: an underground garage is located beneath the square.
- New Year’s Eve: expect closures near the waterfront; take transit. See TTC on New Year’s Eve.
- Toronto Zoo Holiday Lights: the zoo has its own paid parking.
Park and ride: the smart compromise
If you’re driving in from the suburbs, consider parking at a subway station or GO station outside downtown and taking transit the rest of the way:
- TTC commuter lots at stations such as Finch, Kipling, Kennedy and Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (check availability and fees, as some lots are limited or reserved).
- GO station lots in the GTA, then a GO train to Union Station. Weekend service may be less frequent, so check the schedule.
From Union, most downtown Christmas events are within a 15- to 25-minute walk or a short streetcar ride.
Parking costs
Downtown parking prices vary widely by location and time. Expect higher flat rates near major events on weekends and evenings. Compare a full day of parking with the cost of a TTC day pass or GO fare for your group; for families, transit is often cheaper, especially since kids 12 and under ride the TTC free.
Accessible parking
Drivers with a valid Ontario accessible parking permit can use designated spaces in Green P lots and on-street spaces where permitted. Check each venue’s website for accessible drop-off points, especially for the Distillery District and Nathan Phillips Square, and arrive early on busy evenings.
Parking etiquette and rules
- Read all signs carefully: rush-hour routes and snow-route rules can lead to tickets and towing.
- Never block driveways or laneways in residential areas near events.
- Pay for the full time you need; parking enforcement is active on event days.
- Don’t leave valuables visible in your car.
Parking for Toronto Christmas events: FAQ
Is there parking at the Distillery District? There’s limited paid parking nearby, which fills up quickly on weekends and evenings. Transit is easier.
Where should I park for the Santa Claus Parade? Outside the downtown closure zone, near a subway station, then ride in.
Shopping
Malls offer large lots but fill on weekends in December. Go early. See mall holiday hours.
Winter parking rules
Watch for snow-route signs and parking restrictions during snowstorms. Your car may be ticketed or towed.
