Toronto at Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive. Many of the best experiences are free.
Free highlights
- The Santa Claus Parade in November.
- Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square.
- Free Christmas lights in neighbourhoods and public spaces.
- Outdoor skating at City rinks (bring your own skates).
- Free Christmas markets and window displays. See Christmas window displays.
- Free Christmas concerts.
- Free Santa photos.
Full list: free Christmas things to do in Toronto.
Save on paid events
- Go on weekdays: many events, like the Distillery Winter Village, charge on busy evenings and weekends.
- Look for rush or discount tickets for shows.
- Use the library’s Museum + Arts Pass (MAP) for free admission to some attractions with a Toronto Public Library card.
Save on getting around
- Use the TTC: a day of travel costs much less than parking downtown. See the TTC holiday schedule.
- Walk: downtown holiday highlights are close together. Try our Christmas lights walking tour.
Save on food
Bring a thermos of cocoa, picnic indoors or try food courts and markets like St. Lawrence Market.
A free Toronto Christmas day
| Time | Free activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Browse the St. Lawrence Market area and Old Town’s decorated streets |
| Midday | Walk to the Distillery Winter Village on a free weekday |
| Afternoon | Window-shop Yorkville and the Eaton Centre |
| Late afternoon | Skate at Nathan Phillips Square with your own skates |
| Evening | Follow a self-guided Christmas lights walk |
Total cost: your TTC fare and whatever treats you can’t resist.
Budget-friendly food
- St. Lawrence Market for an affordable peameal bacon sandwich, a Toronto classic.
- Food courts in malls and the PATH for quick, cheap lunches.
- Chinatown, Koreatown and Little India for generous, affordable meals.
- Bakeries for festive treats that cost less than a restaurant dessert.
- A thermos of hot chocolate from home for outdoor events.
Money-saving tips for families
- Kids 12 and under ride the TTC free.
- Use the Museum + Arts Pass (MAP) from the Toronto Public Library for free admission to some attractions.
- Check family packages and online discounts for paid attractions.
- Choose matinees for shows; they’re often cheaper.
- Bring your own skates to City rinks.
Budget gift ideas
Shop at free Christmas markets and craft fairs, give a homemade gift, or plan a free experience together, like a skate and a lights walk. Set a budget before you shop, and avoid impulse buys at the busiest markets.
Budget accommodation tips
- Stay outside downtown near a subway station.
- Travel on weeknights, which are usually cheaper than weekends.
- Avoid parade weekend and New Year’s Eve if price matters most.
- Look for hotels with free breakfast.
Toronto Christmas on a budget: FAQ
Can you enjoy Christmas in Toronto for free? Yes: the parade, the city tree, skating with your own skates, free Distillery days, window displays and free concerts cost nothing.
Save on hotels
Stay mid-week, book early, or consider hotels near transit outside downtown. See where to stay.
