As the countdown to the holidays continues, Toronto comes alive with an exciting line-up of events this weekend.
Whether you’re drawn to new cultural experiences, creative classes, or festive family moments, here’s your guide to the best things to do from Friday to Sunday.
Friday, Dec. 19
Caribbean Christmas Village – in Little Jamaica
Little Jamaica is debuting its first-ever Caribbean Christmas Village, turning the new Fairbank LRT plaza into a festive pop-up filled with island eats, Black and Caribbean-owned holiday vendors, live reggae and steel pan, and family-friendly programming. Expect food samples like soup joumou and rum cake, a visit from “Kente Claus,” kids’ charm-making workshops, and even a Caribbean twist on a gingerbread house competition, all celebrating culture, community, and the neighbourhood’s comeback.
Mac and Cheese Festival
After a five-year break, Toronto’s beloved Mac and Cheese Festival is back, popping up at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W) as part of Winterfest for one cheesy weekend only. Hosted by Street Eats Market, the comfort-food favourite promises elevated, chef-driven spins on mac and cheese, from indulgent classics to bold, winter-ready flavour mashups. Admission is free, with an optional $9.99 VIP Taste Pass unlocking $5 sampler portions, making it easy to graze while taking in Winterfest’s holiday tree, maze, train ride, and waterfront festivities.
Bandura on Bloor Christmas Special
Settle in for an intimate holiday concert celebrating the rich, resonant sound of the Ukrainian bandura at Heliconian Hall at 7:30 p.m. Presented by the Toronto Bandura Festival, the Christmas Special features Ukrainian-Canadian duo Banduralicious, alongside the Bandura Trio and rising young performer Solomia Shevchuk, followed by a festive, Christmas-themed reception. Tickets range from $25–$35 (kids under 12 attend free) and can be purchased on the show pass website, with part of the proceeds supporting scholarships for Ukrainian children newly arrived in Canada.
Saturday, Dec. 20
A Very Merry Magic Show
Add a little sparkle to your holidays with A Very Merry Magic Show, live at the Wychwood Theatre (76 Wychwood Theatre). Magicians BenTastic and Magic Mel team up for a fast-paced, family-friendly Christmas performance packed with illusions, comedy, and interactive moments that invite kids and parents into the fun. The 50-minute show is designed for all ages, blending festive cheer with big laughs and plenty of “how did they do that?” moments. Tickets start at $27.99 and can be purchased at the theatre’s website.
Toronto Art Charity Exhibition
Spend your Saturday afternoon browsing art with a purpose at the Toronto Art Charity Exhibition, spotlighting Canadian and American artists across painting, photography, and mixed media. Taking place at 2237 Dundas St. W, from 3- 5 p.m., the event includes a special master class with Canadian artist Sarah Stewart and supports causes ranging from coral restoration and clean water access to ending animal testing, making it a feel-good stop for art lovers looking to give back. You can find more information at the exhibit’s Event Brite.
Christmas Market: Children’s Business Fair
This family-friendly Christmas market puts the spotlight on kid entrepreneurs, with children selling their own handmade gifts, crafts, and sweet treats at Fort York National Historic Site. Hosted by youth development organization Kindraza, the free event blends last-minute holiday shopping with festive fun, including complimentary skating at The Bentway and hot chocolate to keep everyone warm. It’s a heartwarming way to support young creatives while soaking up holiday vibes in one of Toronto’s most historic settings.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Scarborough Holiday Moonlit Market
Scarborough’s Moonlit Market returns as a cozy, after-dark holiday pop-up spotlighting local makers, small businesses, and festive food vendors. Located at 1510 Birchmount Rd. and running from 4 -9 p.m., the event is designed as a community-first night market. The free event invites visitors to browse unique, giftable finds, sample seasonal treats, and soak up warm, twinkly holiday vibes while supporting neighbourhood entrepreneurs. It’s an easy, low-key way to do some local shopping and spend a winter evening with friends in Scarborough.
Holiday Brunch with Santa at Vivo Avanti
Make brunch a holiday affair at Vivo Avanti with a festive Brunch with Santa, running from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Families can enjoy the restaurant’s newly launched Italian-inspired brunch menu, think brioche French toast and hearty breakfast plates with premium Italian meats, alongside complimentary photos with Santa and sugar-cookie decorating from 12 to 2 p.m. With reservations via OpenTable and a Daily Bread Food Drive running, it’s an easy, feel-good way to mix good food, holiday fun, and giving back.
Resin Art Workshop
Tap into your creative side at this hands-on resin art workshop, where participants mix, pour, and layer colourful resin to create everything from canvases and coasters to decorative trays. Located at ArtBox Studio, and running from 4 – 6 p.m., the guided session introduces resin techniques using pigments, metallic flakes, florals, and glitter, with all materials and safety gear provided in a relaxed, music-filled studio setting. Open to ages 14 and up, the workshop includes complimentary snacks and drinks. Tickets start at $59 and can be purchased at ArtBox’s website.
