Cavalcade of Lights 2026
Saturday, November 28, 2026 – Thursday, January 7, 2027
5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Nathan Phillips Square
Cavalcade of Lights marks the official start of Toronto's holiday season at Nathan Phillips Square. Opening night is Saturday, November 28, 2026. Lights, installations, and skating continue through January 7, 2027.
Opening night
Expect main-stage performances, the tree and square lighting ceremony, immersive installations, free public skating to music, and a figure skating showcase. Typical evening window is 5 to 10 pm. About 20,000 people usually pack opening night, so arrive early if you want a sightline to the tree.
Through the season
The lighting elements and select installations stay up nightly, and free public skating remains part of the draw. Nathan Phillips Square is at 100 Queen Street West, above Osgoode Station on Line 1.
Practical tips
Dress for standing outdoors. Transit beats parking on opening night. Check toronto.ca/cavalcade closer to late November for the full opening schedule and any road closures around City Hall.
