Best Free Things To Do During Winter Break 2019

Winter break is on and school is out—now what? There are plenty of amazing shows to see, museums to visit, and events to enjoy in Toronto during the Christmas break, but if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly—as in, completely free—look no further. These fun events and activities don’t cost a penny!

Evergreen’s Winter Village

Play outdoors in the children’s garden, skate on the Koerner Gardens rink (rentals available), or give street curling a whirl at Evergreen’s Winter Village. Shop local food vendors and the Holiday Market and make some s’mores over the open fire.

When: Dec. 1–22 weekends only (10 am–5 pm), Dec. 24 (10 am–3 pm), and daily Dec. 26–31 (10 am–5 pm)
Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave., Toronto

DeClute Light Up the Beach

More than 80,000 Christmas lights decorate the Boardwalk and The Beach from the Leuty Lifeguard House to the Balmy Beach Club through the winter season for DeClute’s Light Up the Beach. Take a walk along the shores of Lake Ontario to see the illuminated oak, maple and willow trees.

When: Nov. 29–late Feb., nightly
Where: At the foot of Leuty Ave., Toronto

City Hall Christmas Concert

Every year since 1965, the City of Toronto has presented a free Christmas concert in the City Hall Rotunda. Beginning at noon, this year’s concert features the Toronto Mass Choir, the Pan Fantasy Steelband, Tower Brass, and the Toronto Beaches Children’s and Youth Chorus. Special guest appearance by Santa Claus.

When: Dec. 20, noon–1 pm
Where: Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen St. W., Toronto

Winter Solstice Parade

The longest, darkest night of the year becomes one of the brightest at the annual Winter Solstice Parade (30 years running!) in Kensington Market, one of the city’s most beloved neighbourhoods.

When: Dec. 21, from 6:30 pm (parade at 7 pm)
Where: Departs from St. Stephen’s Community House, 260 Augusta Ave., Toronto

Rouge Park Guided Walks

Parks Canada volunteers lead themed walks through Canada’s first urban national park. Learn about plants, the Mast Trail, First Nations, archeology, and more, all in the context of Rouge Park, in Scarborough.

When: Saturdays and Sundays (Dec. 21, 22, 28, 29); times vary

Where: Rouge National Urban Park; each walk has a different meeting point — see the website for details

The Bentway Polar Bear Skate

If you’ve heard of the polar bear dip, then you’ll understand what The Bentway Polar Bear Skate is all about! Participants will strip down to their knickers to skate at the second annual event at The Bentway Skate Trail under the Gardiner. Brrr! Registrants can warm up with free hot chocolate and are entered to win a special prize pack.

When: Dec. 29, 1:00–4 pm
Where: The Bentway Skate Trail, 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto

Winter Flower Show

Warm up at an indoor botanical garden whose six greenhouses are filled with tropical plants, palms, and arid desert plants. The winter flower show features seasonal topiary masterpieces and more than 30 varieties of poinsettia.

When: December 1–January 6, 10 am–5 pm (to 7 pm on weekends before Christmas)
Where: Allan Gardens Conservatory, 19 Horticultural Ave., Toronto

Toronto Polar Bear Dip

Every year, some 500 people participate in the Toronto Polar Bear Dip by jumping into the frigid waters of Lake Ontario on New Year’s Day. Participate or cheer on or hold a towel for one of the brave souls or teams raising money. This year, the charity event supports Boost Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.

When: Jan. 1 at noon
Where: Sunnyside Beach, Lake Shore Blvd. and Parkside Dr.

Free Events at the Toronto Public Library

In addition to being a valuable resource for an endless flow of books and movies, your neighbourhood library is likely also hosting special, kid-oriented events this winter break. These often free activities include everything from puppet shows to noon-time New Year’s Eve parties.

When: Various dates Various TPL branches
Where: Find your local Toronto Public Library branch.

Ice Skating

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors! Grab the kids and head to one of the city’s 50 free outdoor rinks. Skate and helmet rentals are available at many rinks for a fee, and skate rentals are free on Thursday evenings at The Bentway.

Free Ice Skating Rinks

The Bentway Skate Trail – 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto

Natrel Rink – Harbourfront Centre

Ontario Place Skating Rink – Ontario Place

City of Toronto outdoor rinks – see list of all locations

Tobogganing

If the snow is falling and the sun is shining, get outside! Check out Toronto’s best sledding hills for some downhill thrills during winter break.