The essential hub for media covering The Distillery Winter Village.
Toronto's world-famous Christmas market opens November 12 for seven weeks of holiday magic
TORONTO, Ont. – October 27, 2026 – Today, The Distillery Winter Village presented by Quince announced its 2026 programming lineup including performances by some of Toronto's leading performing arts organizations, a new Immersive Nutcracker experience, a Christmas department store-themed Santa’s Village, and over 50 food vendors and outdoor bars including Chef’s Lane featuring dishes from four acclaimed chefs. Strings of lights will glow overhead along the cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings will be decked in wreaths, garland and holiday window displays, and visitors will feel like they’ve stepped into a Christmas card come to life. This year also marks Quince’s debut as title sponsor, bringing its signature mix of quality cashmere, gifting and a few holiday surprises to the heart of the Village.
In its 17th year, Toronto's world-famous Christmas market, which welcomes a million visitors a year, transforms the pedestrian-only streets of The Distillery Historic District into a holiday wonderland from November 12, 2026 through January 3, 2027, and tickets are now on sale.
Tree Lighting Ceremony: Thursday, November 12, 4:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Opening night festivities begin November 12 at 4:00 p.m. with holiday sets by singer and guitarist Mo Guzman, leading up to the main stage event at 6:00 p.m., when Santa flips the switch to illuminate the centrepiece 16.8-metre (55-foot) silver fir Christmas tree for the first time this season. Following the tree lighting, JUNO Award-winning Canadian singer Holly Cole will perform the first song of Christmas and more from her Christmas album, Baby It's Cold Outside and I Have the Christmas Blues. All profits from opening night ticket sales will support The Distillery Winter Village's local charity partners: The Anishnawbe Health Foundation, Soulpepper Theatre, and the Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund. Those unable to attend in person can watch the ceremony live on: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. ET.
“The Distillery Winter Village continues to evolve each year, and we're especially proud of the calibre of performers, new attractions and creative partnerships coming together for 2026," said Rik Ocvirk, Vice President, The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director, Experiences and Events, The Distillery Historic District. "We're thrilled to have Quince on board as our new title sponsor and look forward to bringing their creative vision to life at this year's event. At the heart of it all, this is a place where people come together to celebrate the season, spend time with the people they love and make memories that last long after the holidays are over."
“I’ve visited The Distillery Winter Village for years, so I know how special this tradition is to Toronto,” said Kelly Olsen, Head of Canada at Quince. “That makes it especially meaningful for Quince to become part of it. We’re excited to add to the magic people already love here and bring our brand to life for Canadians in a way that feels distinctly Toronto.”
Quince Brings Cashmere and Gingerbread to The Distillery Winter Village
This year, The Distillery Winter Village welcomes Quince as its new title sponsor, bringing two holiday classics, cashmere and gingerbread, to Toronto's world-famous Christmas market. Known for its premium-quality essentials at accessible prices, Quince is creating a gingerbread-inspired Cashmere Cabin where visitors can shop select Mongolian cashmere, holiday gifts and accessories, and capture a festive photo moment along the way.
The #GiftWithQuince contest invites Canadians to nominate someone special by sharing their Distillery Winter Village experience in an Instagram post or Reel, tagging their nominee and explaining why they'd love to give them a gift, using @onequince and #GiftWithQuince. Seven winners and their nominees will each receive a $70 Quince.ca gift card to shop on the app, while one grand prize winner and their nominee will each receive a $1,000 Quince.ca gift card to shop on the app. Entries close December 10. Terms and conditions apply.
And there’s more to come: Quince has a special reveal planned for the Winter Village’s iconic Christmas tree, to be unveiled at the November 12 tree lighting ceremony.
The Distillery Winter Village 2026 Highlights
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES & HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT
Some of Toronto's leading performing arts organizations will take the stage at The Distillery Winter Village this season, bringing opera, musical theatre, and choral performances to the cobblestone streets. All performances are included with admission.
Performance Highlights:
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
NEW: The Immersive Nutcracker
Step inside a Christmas classic as The Immersive Nutcracker transforms The Fermenting Cellar at The Distillery District into a spectacular 360-degree holiday experience. Tchaikovsky's beloved tale comes to life through floor-to-ceiling digital projections, as the Nutcracker marches past, snow falls and visitors journey to the Land of Sweets. Encounter larger-than-life characters, including the Sugar Plum Fairy and Mouse King, along with festive photo ops, story-inspired food and drinks, and interactive games.
Separate admission is required. See here.
NEW: Visit Costa Rica’s Río Celeste Chocolate Waterfall
A taste of the tropics comes to The Distillery Winter Village with Visit Costa Rica’s Río Celeste Chocolate Waterfall. Inspired by Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, this flowing chocolate waterfall is framed by tropical foliage, rocks, wildlife décor, and festive lights. Enjoy chocolate-drizzled pineapple and banana treats, capture a holiday photo and step through an augmented reality portal to discover Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Experience a little Costa Rican “pura vida” in the heart of Toronto’s holiday season.
SANTA'S VILLAGE AT SOULPEPPER THEATRE
Step into a whimsical holiday world inspired by Soulpepper Theatre's production of Parfumerie, where vintage European department store charm meets Christmas magic. Located inside the Soulpepper Theatre atrium, Santa's Village will feature twinkling lights, holiday displays, Santa and his elves, a vintage-inspired letter-writing station, specialty hot chocolates and sweet treats.
New this year, Storytime with the Elves invites little visitors to gather to hear enchanting Christmas stories daily in the atrium.
FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK
The Distillery Winter Village is a holiday destination for food lovers, with dozens of outdoor food cabins serving up Toronto favourites, viral sensations and holiday classics. From indulgent street food and savoury bites to decadent desserts and specialty hot chocolates, there’s plenty to discover alongside The Distillery District’s year-round restaurants and cafés.
Chef’s Lane Returns
Following a successful debut at last year’s Distillery Winter Village, Chef’s Lane returns for 2026 with four new cabins, four acclaimed chefs and four one-of-a-kind, holiday-inspired dishes created exclusively for the event.
Meet the 2026 Chef’s Lane chefs:
NEW food this year:
Returning food favourites:
Back by popular demand are some of the Winter Village's most talked-about dishes, including Stick Shift Robata's A5 Wagyu Sando, Cluny's torched s'mores hot chocolate, Scooped by Demetres' Monkey Bread, and Spirit of York’s Yorkie Burrito.
Visitors can also dig into Japan Taco, bao buns from WuBaEats, French Canadian poutine, Ukrainian pierogies, Swiss raclette, BBQ from Grinch’s Grill and sweet treats ranging from mini pancakes and freshly made doughnuts to chocolate-covered strawberries, gourmet rice crispie treats, crêpes and waffles.
OUTDOOR HOLIDAY BARS
From a new Canadian-themed tavern to holiday patios decked out in lights, The Distillery Winter Village's outdoor bars offer plenty of places to gather, warm up and enjoy a seasonal drink.
NEW: The Canuck Tavern – Archeo Patio
A love letter to the Great White North, The Canuck Tavern celebrates all things Canadian with a playful mix of hockey, cottage-country charm and iconic Canadian landscapes.
Settle into Muskoka chairs around the fire, catch a hockey game on the big screen or snap a photo in a canoe against a wilderness backdrop or on a ski chairlift overlooking snowy mountains.
Other highlights include a larger-than-life topiary moose, a hockey penalty box, tributes to famous Canadians including Terry Fox, Roberta Bondar and Michael J. Fox, and a message board where visitors can share what they love about Canada. Raise a glass with Canadian beer and spirits.
Naughty or Nice Bar – Pure Spirits Courtyard
One of the Winter Village's signature outdoor bars gets a refreshed look for 2026, with 50,000 white-and-blue holiday lights and a long, counter-height communal table offering more room to gather over seasonal drinks.
NEW: Silent Night Disco — Cluny Tunnel
The Cluny Tunnel transforms into a glittering winter wonderland. Mirror balls, starburst lighting, and giant disco ball-covered snow people set the scene for DJ nights on the heated patio. Complete the experience with a decadent Parisian-style mousse au chocolat, available in cherry, espresso or Belgian chocolate.
NEW: Merry Matcha – Trinity Street
A new stop for alcohol-free drinks, Merry Matcha serves various flavours including: regular, coconut, strawberry rose, lavender, ubé, and vanilla.
SHOPPING & HOLIDAY GIFTS
Discover gifts from local and Canadian makers at The Distillery Winter Village's seasonal vendor cabins, alongside more than 90 permanent businesses throughout The Distillery District.
From fashion and handmade jewellery to gourmet treats, home décor, self-care products and original art, the pedestrian-only streets are lined with independent shops and specialty retailers offering plenty of inspiration for holiday gift-giving.
New this year, The Cooperage Marketplace brings together seven independent, founder-operated Canadian businesses under one roof. Located in a historic building dating back to the 1860s, it takes its name from the building's original use for making, storing and repairing whisky barrels.
Also new, Maplee Market offers a curated shopping experience showcasing local brands and independent makers.
Throughout the Winter Village, seasonal vendor cabins offer everything from unique glass and hand-painted Christmas ornaments to handcrafted wooden toys and puzzles, fresh seafood dips, Belgian chocolate creations and more!
HOLIDAY PHOTO OPS & FESTIVE EXPERIENCES
The Distillery Winter Village is one of Toronto's most photographed holiday destinations. At the heart of it all is the iconic 16.8-metre (55-foot) tall Christmas tree in Trinity Square, surrounded by illuminated displays and holiday installations.
Photo highlights include:
TICKETS & PLANNING YOUR VISIT
The Distillery Winter Village runs daily from Thursday, November 12, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027, and is closed Christmas Day.
Tickets are required during peak periods, including:
Admission is free all day Monday to Wednesday through December 13, 2026.
Tickets start at $16, plus HST and service charge, with General Admission, Flex and Express ticket options available. Kids aged nine and under always enter free and do not require a ticket.
For the complete ticket calendar, ticket options and everything visitors need to plan their trip, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
ABOUT THE DISTILLERY WINTER VILLAGE
The Distillery Winter Village is Toronto's original outdoor Christmas market, set within The Distillery Historic District. Recognized among the best Christmas markets in the world, it welcomes more than one million visitors each year from across Canada and around the world. For seven weeks each winter, the pedestrian-only neighbourhood transforms into a festive destination featuring its famous centrepiece Christmas tree, seasonal vendor cabins, holiday performances and themed food and beverage experiences. The event employs more than 700 seasonal workers and raises funds for local charities.
For more information and tickets, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
ABOUT QUINCE
Quince is a manufacturer-to-consumer platform offering a curated assortment of the world’s best-made essentials, from cashmere and linen to fine jewelry and furniture, across more than 100 categories. By connecting shoppers directly to the manufacturing partners who make each product, Quince prices its assortment 50 to 70 percent below comparable market prices without compromising on quality, backed by a 365-day return policy and a 4.7 average customer rating across millions of reviews. Founded in January 2019 by three co-founders and headquartered in San Francisco, Quince closed its Series E in March 2026 at a $10.1 billion valuation and is one of the fastest-growing private companies in the country. Explore the full Canadian experience at Quince.ca, or download the Quince app on the App Store and the Google Play Store, with free shipping, free 365-day returns, and all prices in CAD including duties.
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Media Resources, including images: TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com/media-resources
Media Contact:
Laurie Weir & Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
www.nextpublicrelations.ca
TORONTO, September 28, 2026 – The countdown to the holidays is on: tickets are now on sale for The Distillery Winter Village, Toronto’s original and world-famous Christmas market. Returning for its 17th year, the 2026 season opens November 12 and runs through January 3, 2027. Visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com to plan your visit.
Set against the backdrop of The Distillery Historic District, the annual holiday tradition transforms 13 acres of pedestrian cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture into a holiday wonderland filled with thousands of twinkling lights, one of Canada’s most photographed Christmas trees, Santa and his merry elves, carollers, festive food and drinks, photo ops and one-of-a-kind shopping from local and Canadian businesses and makers.
More than one million visitors are expected throughout the season, with guests travelling from across Canada and around the world to experience a Christmas market that has grown from a Toronto holiday tradition into an international destination.
Opening Night & Tree Lighting Ceremony
The 2026 Distillery Winter Village kicks off Thursday, November 12 at 6:00 p.m. with the highly anticipated tree lighting ceremony. Thousands of visitors will join Santa in counting down from 10 to light up Canada’s most iconic Christmas tree, marking the official start of the holiday season.
Opening night is a ticketed event and traditionally sells out quickly, with profits from ticket sales supporting local partner charities: The Anishnawbe Health Foundation, Soulpepper Theatre Company, and the Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund.
What to Expect This Season
The full 2026 programming line-up will be announced in October, including new experiences, performances and a few surprises. For now, visitors can look forward to the traditions and holiday favourites that have made The Distillery Winter Village an annual destination, including:
“Every year, we hear from people earlier and earlier who want to know when they can start planning their visit to The Distillery Winter Village,” said Rik Ocvirk, Vice President, The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director, Experiences and Events, The Distillery Historic District. “With tickets now on sale, people can get Opening Night and their favourite weekends on the calendar. We’re bringing back the traditions people love, but we’re also working on some new experiences and surprises that we’re keeping under wraps for just a little longer.”
Tickets & Planning Your Visit
The Distillery Winter Village runs daily from Thursday, November 12, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027, and is closed Christmas Day.
Tickets are required during peak periods, including:
Admission is free all day Monday to Wednesday through December 13, 2026.
Tickets start at $16, plus HST and service charge, with General Admission, Flex and Express ticket options available. Kids aged nine and under always enter free and do not require a ticket.
For the complete ticket calendar, ticket options and everything visitors need to plan their trip, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
A Toronto Holiday Tradition with Global Reach and Local Impact
The Distillery Winter Village began in 2010 as a European-style Christmas market in The Distillery Historic District (first known as The Toronto Christmas Market). It has grown into an acclaimed international holiday destination, while remaining an important showcase for Canadian businesses, makers, artists and entrepreneurs.
Nearly 93 per cent of The Distillery District’s more than 90 permanent businesses are Canadian-owned, with approximately 30 per cent of products sold in The Distillery made on-site. The Distillery Winter Village brings even more local and Canadian makers to The Distillery District through its seasonal vendor cabins.
It also creates more than 700 seasonal jobs and drives significant economic activity for local businesses and the surrounding community, while revenue generated during the holiday season helps support cultural programming in The Distillery District throughout the year.
“The Distillery Winter Village has become much more than a holiday tradition,” said Ocvirk. “Every visit has an impact on our community of Canadian makers, independent businesses, restaurants, artists and performers. At a time when there is so much conversation about supporting Canadian, we’re proud to give more than a million visitors the opportunity to discover them right here in The Distillery District.”
For event details, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com and follow @distilleryto.
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Media Contacts:
The Distillery Winter Village
Laurie Weir / Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
416-735-6919 / 647-382-7882
Cast members from four Mirvish musicals unite for one night only
TORONTO, December 2, 2025 – Back for its second year, A Very Merry Mirvish Holiday Concert returns to The Distillery Winter Village with performances from four Mirvish musicals. The exclusive, one-night-only performance will bring the live-theatre excitement of Mirvish Productions to the magic of Toronto’s world-famous Christmas market.
On Sunday, December 7 at 7:00 p.m., cast members from the smash-hit Broadway favourite & Juliet, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved The Sound of Music, the high-voltage rock musical We Will Rock You, and the upcoming Tony-winning Shucked (opening in Toronto in 2026) will take centre stage in front of the 55-foot Christmas Tree.
This year’s concert is free with paid admission to The Distillery Winter Village on December 7 and will be hosted by award-winning television host and meteorologist, Bill Coulter. The setlist will feature hit songs from all four shows alongside timeless holiday classics like “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and “Let it Snow”.
Concert highlights from each show include:
The show will feature musical direction by Richard Evans, and stage managed by Karli Feldman.
Last year’s event drew a massive audience and quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the season at The Distillery Winter Village. This year’s show expands on that success with a new slate of musicals and another unforgettable night of live theatre under the canopy lights.
Audience members will also have the chance to win premium tickets to Mirvish Productions on stage in Toronto.
Tickets to The Distillery Winter Village for Sunday, December 7 are available at www.TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
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For more information, contact:
The Distillery Winter Village
Laurie Weir / Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
416-735-6919 / 647-382-7882
Mirvish Productions
Sue Toth / Erin Nantais
stoth@mirvish.com / enantais@mirvish.com
416-949-1607 / 416-989-5003
Toronto’s World-Famous Christmas Market, Presented by L’Oréal Paris, Now Open for the Holiday Season
TORONTO, November 13, 2025 – On November 13 at Toronto’s Distillery Historic District, thousands of onlookers filled the cobblestone streets to help Santa light the 2025 Christmas Tree, marking the official start of The Distillery Winter Village, presented by L’Oréal Paris — one of the most recognized holiday destinations in the world attracting one million visitors annually.
“This year, we are celebrating our 16th season of The Distillery Winter Village, formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market,” says Rik Ocvirk, Vice President, The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director, Experiences and Events, The Distillery Historic District. “Our goal is to create moments that become memories – whether it’s a first date under the canopy lights, a family tradition by the tree, or a hot chocolate shared with friends. We hope every visitor leaves with a little more wonder and joy than when they arrived.”
Following tree lighting, guests were treated to a special performance by international, award-winning vocal sensation The Tenors, from their album Christmas with The Tenors (Warner Music Canada). Profits from Opening Night ticket sales support local charitable partners: Anishnawbe Health Foundation, Soulpepper Theatre, Crow’s Theatre and The Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund.
Canada’s Most Photographed Christmas Tree
This year’s 16.7-metre (55-foot) silver fir — Canada’s most photographed Christmas Tree — shimmers with over 80,000 lights and 750 ornaments, ranging in size from 15 to 50 cm (six to 20 inches). The dazzling display features elegant gold starbursts and Winter Village snowflakes adorned with red finial ornaments, creating a striking contrast against the tree’s lush green branches.
At its base, a custom-built circular platform now surrounds the tree, featuring a 12-foot performance stage. Built within the base and reminiscent of an enchanting holiday shop window, are handpainted, 3D-printed ornamental vignettes that recreate scenes of a classic nostalgic Christmas — including a whimsical red and green Bachmann Big Haulers G Scale Train that moves around the entire tree and Canadian wildlife like caribou, fawn, moose and bears. Lanterns inspired by those found throughout The Distillery Historic District add a warm glow, tying the installation to its heritage surroundings. In total, more than 1,000 hours were dedicated to fabricating, detailing and decorating this year’s Christmas tree.
Following the season, the tree will be donated to Habitat for Humanity GTA to be used as mulch and reclaimed wood for 60 new homes being built in 2026.
Key Highlights for 2025
Running November 13, 2025 through January 4, 2026, The Distillery Winter Village transforms Toronto’s 13-acre pedestrian-only heritage district into a glowing winter wonderland, foodie destination and shopping market. Visitors can explore 47 vendor cabins and nine outdoor holiday bars — the most ever — serving sweet and savoury food options from around the world, warm drinks, and handmade creations from local artisans.
This year’s event brings more programming and more holiday magic than ever before:
Tickets and Plan Your Visit
Tickets are required for peak times, including: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4:00 p.m.; and daily after 4:00 p.m. from December 15 - 31; and New Year’s Eve. Kids aged nine and under are always free. Tickets start at $15 (plus HST and admin fee), and visitors can choose between four different tiers of tickets, including a combo ticket to see Illuminiarium’s new immersive show, Mythos.
For tickets and event information, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
About The Distillery Winter Village
The Distillery Winter Village is Toronto’s original outdoor Christmas market, set within The Distillery Historic District. Recognized among the best Christmas markets in the world, it welcomes more than one million visitors each year from across Canada and abroad. For seven weeks each winter, the neighbourhood transforms into a festive destination featuring its famous Christmas tree, seasonal vendor cabins, festive performances, and themed food and beverage experiences. The event employs more than 700 seasonal workers and raises funds for local charities. For more information and tickets, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
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Visit The Distillery Winter Village media resources hub for images, fast facts and more about the history of the event: thedistillerywintervillage.com/media-resources
For more information, to schedule an interview or visit, please contact:
Laurie Weir & Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
MEDIA ADVISORY / PHOTO OPP
Tree Lighting Ceremony marks Opening Night of
The Distillery Winter Village
Special performance by The Tenors kicks off Toronto’s holiday season
On Thursday, November 13, Toronto’s most beloved holiday tradition returns as The Distillery Historic District officially lights its iconic 55-foot-tall Christmas tree, marking the start of the 2025 Distillery Winter Village.
WHAT:
WHO:
WHEN: Thursday, November 13, 2025
EVENT SCHEDULE:
4:00 - 5:45 p.m.
6:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Please note: If you require parking, please let us know. We will have an area with a riser for cameras on a first come first served basis. We recommend cameras/reporters arrive early and set up as the area around the tree will become very crowded.
WHERE:
The Distillery Historic District
55 Mill Street, Toronto
WHY:
Attracting a million visitors annually, the seven-week-long Distillery Winter Village, formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market, has been recognized globally among the best Christmas markets in the world. Now in its 16th season, the event features 47 holiday vendor cabins, shopping, festive performances, holiday photo ops, nine outdoor bars and 40 food options.
Tickets start at $15 + HST and admin fee.
The event runs from November 13 - January 4. For tickets, event details and more information visit: www.thedistillerywintervillage.com.
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For more information and to confirm attendance at the tree lighting ceremony, please contact:
Laurie Weir / Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
416-735-6919 / 647-382-7882
TORONTO – October 23, 2025 – Today, The Distillery Winter Village presented by L’Oréal Paris, announced its 2025 programming line-up as it prepares to transform Toronto’s Distillery Historic District into an enchanting holiday destination recognized around the world – attracting a million visitors annually.
Now in its 16th season, this proudly Canadian celebration brings more programming and more holiday magic than ever. From Netflix’s Stranger Things 5 immersive experience and The Pura Vida Chocolate Experience presented by Visit Costa Rica to Chef’s Lane featuring exclusive dishes from top Canadian chefs and performances by beloved Canadian institutions like The Tenors, the Canadian Opera Company, Mirvish Productions, and the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, this year’s lineup promises to deliver cherished holiday memories.
Visitors will find 47 vendor cabins and nine outdoor holiday bars – the most ever – under a canopy of festive lights offering everything from winter comfort food to must-try treats and seasonal gifts. Highlights include Cluny Bistro’s viral torched s’mores hot chocolate, a Craig’s Cookies pop-up, spiralized potato on a stick, Dubai chocolate, Japanese tacos, fresh strawberries in melted chocolate, and themed outdoor bars like the Ugly Sweater Patio, Peppermint Patio, and the Naughty or Nice Bar.
Recognized among the best Christmas markets globally, The Distillery Winter Village blends the nostalgia of a traditional European market in the heart of downtown Toronto, and runs from November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026. This year, L’Oréal Paris joins as presenting sponsor to help bring the holiday spirit to life across 13 acres of cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
“This will be one of our most exciting years yet,” said Rik Ocvirk, Vice President, The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director, Experiences and Events, The Distillery Historic District. “Our programming combines culinary creativity, family-friendly entertainment, and charming design in a way that captures what makes The Distillery Winter Village so special during the holidays. And we’re proud to partner with L’Oréal Paris, a brand that shares our belief in making beauty, joy and memorable experiences accessible to everyone.”
The tree lighting ceremony on opening night, Thursday, November 13, 2025 will be live streamed for people around the world to enjoy. Catch the show at youtube.com/@distillery_to from 5:30 p.m - 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
The Distillery Winter Village 2025 Program Guide
OPENING NIGHT & TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m., Santa flips the switch and lights up Canada’s most iconic Christmas tree. The evening will feature a special performance by The Tenors, immediately following the lighting. All ticket profits from opening night support local charity partners. Tickets are required.
SHOW-STOPPING LINE-UP OF PERFORMANCES AND HOLIDAY MUSIC From choirs and carollers to musical theatre stars and family sing-alongs, this year’s schedule offers something special for every kind of visitor. Performances are free with admission.
Performance Highlights
Canadian Opera Company – December 5, 7:00 pm; & family-oriented show December 6, 3:30 p.m.
Past Canadian Opera Company (COC) Ensemble Studio artists, COC Teaching Artists, and close opera friends of the COC present a beautiful holiday evening performance; alongside a reimagined musical exploration of Ezra Jack Keats’ timeless classic, "The Snowy Day".
A Super Simple Christmas with Caitie & Tobee! – November 17-20, 3:00 p.m.; December 10-12, 3:00 p.m.; and December 15-17, 3:00 p.m.
A joyful sing-along featuring favourites from Caitie’s Countdown to Christmas and classic carols like Jingle Bells and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Plus, meet Caitie & Tobee on November 17 from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. and December 17 from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. and visit the Super Simple Pop-Up Shop for exclusive holiday gifts on select days.
STRANGER THINGS 5 IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
Netflix is thrilled to bring Canadian fans an exclusive Stranger Things immersive experience at The Distillery Winter Village. To celebrate the highly anticipated final season, Netflix invites visitors to step inside the supernatural heart of Hawkins, Indiana for a photo op straight out of the show. Get ready to relive one of the series’ most iconic, spine-tingling moments as you stand in the legendary recreation of the Byers’ living room, complete with the haunting alphabet wall and the show’s signature string of Christmas lights. This is a pop-culture pilgrimage that puts you directly inside the scene that started it all.
Stranger Things 5 will debut in three volumes this fall: four episodes on Nov. 26, three episodes on Christmas Day, and the finale episode on New Year’s Eve. Each volume releases at 5:00 p.m. PST.
THE PURA VIDA CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE PRESENTED BY VISIT COSTA RICA
Escape to the land of pura vida - “the good life” - and the warmth of Costa Rica. The Archeo patio transforms into a tropical chocolate paradise, where guests can sip hot chocolate served in fresh coconuts topped with whipped cream, try the decadent “mochanut” (a blend of coffee and hot chocolate, also served in a real coconut), dip into tropical fruit fondue, and sample premium chocolate. Enjoy your drink at vibrant surfboard tables, then unwind in bird-nest loungers beneath a symbolic ceiba tree, surrounded by rainforest scenery where sloths, parrots, and tree frogs make an appearance. For kids, there's a creative colouring station inspired by Costa Rica’s iconic hand-painted oxcarts.
SANTA’S VILLAGE
This year, Santa’s Village inside Soulpepper Theatre has a magical new look inspired by Bad Hats’ Narnia (an adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s beloved story about the mystical land of Narnia). Children and families can enter through the wardrobe into a blue and silvery winter wonderland, take a photo with Santa and his elves, and even encounter Narnia characters.
FESTIVE FOOD AND DRINK
With 40 food vendors and nine themed outdoor bars, there’s something to delight every taste bud.
Three new foodie experiences:
SHOPPING & HOLIDAY GIFTS
Visitors can explore 85-plus year-round retailers, plus vendor cabins offering handmade holiday gifts and one-of-a-kind finds.
HOLIDAY PHOTO OPS
Pose in front of the centrepiece Christmas Tree and capture these can’t-miss holiday displays: the 80,000 dangling white lights at the Naughty or Nice Bar, the Heart of Christmas display, Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, the Candy Cane Wreath, and the famous Countdown to Christmas clock - plus hundreds of thousands of holiday lights strung across the site.
Professional photos by the Christmas Tree will be offered for purchase by The Photo Spot.
TICKETS AND PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Tickets are required for peak times, including: Opening Night; Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4:00 p.m.; and daily from December 15 - 31; and for New Years Eve. Kids aged nine and under are always free. For ticket details, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com. Tickets start at $15 (plus service charge and HST), and visitors can choose between four different tiers of tickets, including a combo ticket to see Illuminiarium’s new immersive show, Mythos.
ABOUT THE DISTILLERY WINTER VILLAGE
The Distillery Winter Village is Toronto’s original outdoor Christmas market, set within The Distillery Historic District. Recognized among the best Christmas markets in the world, it welcomes more than one million visitors each year from across Canada and abroad. For seven weeks each winter, the neighbourhood transforms into a festive destination featuring its famous Christmas tree, seasonal vendor cabins, festive performances, and themed food and beverage experiences. The event employs more than 700 seasonal workers and raises funds for local charities. For more information and tickets, visit TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
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Visit The Distillery Winter Village media resources hub for images, fast facts and more about the history of the event: thedistillerywintervillage.com/media-resources
For more information, to schedule an interview or visit, please contact:
Laurie Weir & Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com
TORONTO, September 17, 2025 – Christmas may still be months away, but Toronto’s original and world-famous Christmas Market is already counting down to opening night. The Distillery Winter Village returns November 13, 2025 - January 4, 2026, and tickets are officially on sale today at www.TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
Set against the backdrop of Toronto’s Distillery Historic District, The Distillery Winter Village transforms 13 acres of cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture into a magical wonderland filled with holiday lights, carollers, photo ops, festive food and drinks, and one-of-a-kind shopping from local artisans. One million visitors from around the world are expected this season, making The Distillery Winter Village one of the most popular holiday destinations of its kind.
The 2025 season kicks off Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m. with the most anticipated holiday tradition in the country - the lighting of Canada’s most iconic Christmas tree. A crowd of thousands will join Santa in counting down before he flips the switch and officially opens Toronto’s world-famous Christmas Market. Opening Night is a ticketed event and profits support local charities. At the end of the season, the tree will be donated to Habitat for Humanity GTA (Greater Toronto Area) to be used as mulch for 60 homes being built in 2026.
Highlights include a new Santa’s Village (with a Narnia-inspired theme), Santa and his elves, roaming carollers, themed outdoor cocktail bars, the famed countdown clock, and vendor cabins filled with gifts and festive treats including the return of viral favourites like the Cluny s’mores hot chocolate. The full line-up of entertainment, holiday photo ops, and surprise performances, including Boxing Week and New Year’s Eve celebrations, will be announced in October.
“We know it’s early to be talking about the holidays, but we wanted to give Toronto an early Christmas present by launching tickets today so everyone can start planning their visit,” said Rik Ocvirk, Vice President, The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director, Experiences and Events, The Distillery Historic District. “Many of The Distillery Winter Village favourites are back this year - from Santa’s Village to the Naughty or Nice Bar to our famous photo ops; but we’ve also got some exciting new experiences in store that we can’t wait to share when we announce the full line-up next month.”
Tickets are required for peak times, including: Opening Night; Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 p.m.; Thursdays in December after 4:00 p.m.; and daily from December 15 - 31. Kids aged nine and under are always free. For ticket details, visitors should check the calendar at www.TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
Tickets start at $15 (plus service charge and HST).
The Distillery Winter Village is Toronto’s original and world-famous outdoor Christmas Market, set in the historic backdrop of The Distillery Historic District in Toronto, Ontario. It has ranked among the Best Christmas Markets globally and attracts one million visitors annually from around the world. For over seven weeks from mid November to early January each year, The Distillery Winter Village transforms The Distillery Historic District into a magical winter wonderland filled with its famous centrepiece Christmas tree, Santa and his Elves, thousands of holiday lights, dozens of vendor cabins, festive fare, and themed bars. It employs over 700 seasonal workers and raises funds for community charities. For more information, visit www.TheDistilleryWinterVillage.com.
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Visit The Distillery Winter Village media resources hub for images, fast facts and more about the history of the event: https://www.thedistillerywintervillage.com/media-resources
Media contact:
Laurie Weir / Will Lamont
Next Public Relations Inc.
laurie@nextpublicrelations.com / will@nextpublicrelations.com