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- calendar_today November 12, 2026
Holiday Season Begins with Tree Lighting Events in Toronto
Toronto marks the official start of the holiday season with two anticipated Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, inviting locals and visitors to witness signature seasonal celebrations in the heart of the city.
Canada’s Tallest Indoor Christmas Tree at CF Toronto Eaton Centre
The CF Toronto Eaton Centre is hosting its 10th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 12, a milestone year for one of the city's most popular holiday traditions. The event highlights Canada’s tallest indoor Christmas tree, which stands an impressive 114 feet tall inside the mall’s atrium. Over the years, the iconic indoor holiday tree has become a seasonal landmark for holiday shoppers and downtown visitors alike.
Immersive Ceremonies and Festive Entertainment
The tree lighting ceremony at the Eaton Centre is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday. Organizers promise a multi-level, immersive pre-show that will build excitement ahead of the official lighting moment. Attendees can expect festive entertainment and visual displays spread throughout the shopping centre as anticipation climaxes with the tree being switched on.
Recent iterations of the event have featured programmable LED lighting displays on the tree, enhancing the visual splendour and confirming its status as Canada's tallest indoor Christmas tree. The event is free to attend and open to the public.
Distillery Winter Village Returns
In addition to Eaton Centre's presentation, the Distillery District is preparing to transform its historic cobblestone streets into the beloved Distillery Winter Village. Launching this weekend and continuing through January 3, the Winter Village offers another tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Visitors to the Winter Village can explore festive food and drinks, shop from local artisans, listen to carollers, and meet Santa and his elves—activities that will run throughout the Christmas season. While tickets are required for the tree lighting ceremony and later-night entry, free admission is available before 4 p.m. each day.
Celebrating the Holiday Season in Toronto
The combination of the eaton centre christmas tradition and the vibrant offerings at the Distillery Winter Village heralds the beginning of holiday season Toronto. Both events represent longstanding seasonal attractions, drawing crowds and fostering community spirit amid festive settings.
From Canada’s tallest indoor holiday tree to classic Christmas festivities in the Distillery District, Toronto's seasonal events are set to brighten up the city and deliver memorable moments for all ages.
Source: toronto.citynews.ca.
