Celebrate the Season: Family Fun and Giving Back in Toronto
The holiday season in Toronto is a special time filled with warmth, joy, and festive cheer. It’s a perfect season to enjoy wonderful activities with family and friends that light up the city with magic. But beyond the celebrations, the holidays also remind us of the importance of giving back and sharing kindness with those in need. Embracing both the joy of seasonal traditions and the spirit of generosity can make this time truly meaningful for everyone in the community.
Here is a quick guide of noteworthy things to do and meaningful causes you can get involved in this holiday season.
Three Unique Holiday Experiences in Toronto
Catch a Holiday Musical & Visit The Market
Experience the magic of the "Narnia" play at Soulpepper Theatre in the Distillery District. A play that touches the hearts of kids and adults alike. This new musical retelling of C.S. Lewis’ beloved tale, presented by Soulpepper Theatre Company in partnership with Bad Hats Theatre and Crow’s Theatre, takes families on a journey through the wardrobe into a wintery, enchanting world. The production features a company of dynamic actor-musicians and an immersive holiday experience with a snowy landscape and holiday-themed activities like meeting Santa and enjoying hot chocolate in the theatre lobby. It runs from November 18 to December 28, 2025.
And while you are there, you can also experience the Distillery District Winter Village (peak-time tickets apply; plan ahead or visit during a time without ticket requirements).
Visit Wonderland For a Change of Scenery
Visit Winterfest at Canada’s Wonderland. This family-friendly holiday event includes dazzling lights, skating on Snowflake Lake, live entertainment, and kid-friendly activities such as cookie decorating and letters to Santa. The amusement park transforms into a festive winter wonderland perfect for creating joyful holiday memories.
Visit the Gardens
Take a stroll through the Toronto Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights. Families can enjoy illuminated pathways, live music performances, and holiday crafts for kids, making it a magical outdoor experience full of festive cheer.
Two meaningful ways to give back and donate:
Sponsor a Family
Donate to or sponsor a family through Holiday Helpers, an organization that provides new, unwrapped toys or gifts for families in need across Toronto. They offer an easy way to make a positive impact by supporting children and families during the holiday season. https://holidayhelpers.org/
Support Vulnerable Children
Participate in community giving programs run by organizations such as Covenant House or CAMH’s Gifts of Light, which collect donations including winter coats and gifts to support vulnerable kids and adults through the holidays. You can also volunteer with CAMH - click here to learn more, and visit the Volunteer section for other opportunities to get involved.
We hope you enjoy these ideas - it’s a wonderful time of year to reconnect, give back and explore the many activities Toronto has to offer.
For a listing of more events visit the Events section of our website here.
Bzzz,
Team Carebee
