The holidays are officially upon us so here are some fun events in Toronto to laugh, shop, and cozy up with those nearest and dearest. For film-lovers, art aficionados, fiction fans and everyone in between, check out the rest of the year’s best bets!
Festive Toronto Events
We’ve gathered a list of some of the festive events happening in Toronto this holiday season. From comedy shows to Christmas tree lightings and everything in between, we’re sure there’s something for everyone, friends and families alike, on this list! More Info
When: Various dates
Where: Various locations
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Cans Film Festival
Film lovers who are looking to give back this holiday season need look no further than the Cans Film Festival. Imagine Cinemas across the province are encouraging patrons to bring a non-perishable food item, toiletry product, or new or gently used clothing to their theatres for donation to those in need. As a thank you for the generous donation, audiences can earn 20% off their popcorn and drink combo, with the purchase of a movie ticket. More Info
When: December 6-31
Where: Imagine Cinemas
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A Feminist Lens: The 1973 Women & Film International Festival
The 1973 Women & Film International Festival celebrates its 51st year with a curated exhibition with TIFF. Open until March 2025, this free drop-in event presents archival material from the collection, never before seen in Toronto. It includes Super 8 and open-reel video recordings, photos, letters, newspaper clippings, and documents, providing a glimpse into the collaborative and feminist work of those who helped bring the festival to life. More Info
When: December 17-March 1, 2025
Where: CIBC Canadian Film Gallery at TIFF Lightbox
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Ladies First Holiday SHEBang
Stand Up Gals with Society Clubhouse present a seasonal variety show featuring stand up, sketch, and more. The night will also feature a craft market, Society Clubhouse’s own artisan market, and tarot readings. Stand Ups include the talented Taryn Dougall, Desirée Walsh and Jessica Besser-Rosenberg. Share a laugh and grab some last minute gifts all in one spot! More Info
When: December 18
Where: Society Clubhouse
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Unhinged (Women Reading Fiction)
Join some of Canada’s favourite fiction writers for a cozy evening of reading, discussing and exploring various works of new fiction. The night will feature readings from Victoria Hetherington, Cat Black, Bunmi Adeoye, Jowita Bydlowska and Robin Richardson. Hosted at Loohoo Shop, come for the readings and stay to browse all the cute items on sale! More Info
When: December 18
Where: Loohoo
Tissot, Women and Time
The Art Gallery of Ontario is highlighting James Tissot’s work and his representation of modern women and envisioning their relationship to time during the last decades of the nineteenth century. The exhibit will include two of the AGO’s most beloved Tissot paintings alongside a selection of more than 40 works on paper. More Info
When: December 20
Where: Art Gallery of Ontario
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ROM After Dark: Winter Festival of Light
The popular 19+ after hours event at the Royal Ontario Museum is having its last installment of 2024! Featuring curated music, live performances, and distinctive food and drink, the December edition will also include live skating, spectacular lights, a giant huggable bear and a Make-a-Card Station. More Info
When: December 20
Where: Royal Ontario Museum
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Holiday Programming at The Bentway
Head over to the Bentway for a host of holiday programming! The season will include winter skating, free hot chocolate Mondays, and a display of Toronto artist Jessica Thalmann’s new work Resurfacing. Guests can also enjoy free hot drinks and cookies from December 29 to January 1, perfect for wrapping up 2024. More Info
When: December 21-January 5, 2025
Where: The Bentway
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Light Up The Dark 2024
OCAD University students and graduates have come together to create a dazzling light show at the Aga Khan Museum. The museum’s front façade will come alive with these fantastic projections. Inspired by objects from their collections and the current exhibition, Light: Visionary Perspectives, celebrating the Museum’s 10th anniversary, this is sure to be a memorable display! More Info
When: December 27-29
Where: Aga Khan Museum
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Festive Favourites & Back to the Bloor at Hot Docs Cinema
Hot Docs has re-opened its doors and with it comes their Festival Favourites and Back to the Bloor! Ring in the season with their annual gift of holiday classics, including a Polar Express pajama party and a screening of Die Hard! For Back to the Bloor, audiences can watch Toronto favourite Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, as well as School of Rock, Godzilla and more! More Info
When: Various Dates
Where: Hot Docs Cinema