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Cavalcade of Lights festival in Toronto
Holiday & SeasonalNov – Dec

Cavalcade of Lights

Toronto's official holiday season kickoff at City Hall.

When

November 28 – December 31, 2026

Where

Nathan Phillips Square

Area

Downtown

Cost

Free

Format

outdoor

Attendance

300K+ visitors

Running Since

1967 (59 years)

Family Friendly

Yes

VT Insider Tip

Opening night is magical but packed. If you want the lights-on experience without the crowds, go any weeknight in the first week after the launch — the tree and displays are still lit but the crowds are much smaller.

About

Cavalcade of Lights is how Toronto officially starts the holiday season. The massive Christmas tree at Nathan Phillips Square gets its lights turned on, fireworks go off, and free outdoor concerts and skating make the square come alive. The opening night is the main event, but the light displays stay up through the season.

What to Expect

Opening night: fireworks, DJ/live music, light displays, ice skating. Ongoing: lit tree and holiday displays at Nathan Phillips Square through late December.

Pro Tips

Combine Cavalcade with skating at Nathan Phillips Square rink (free if you bring your own skates, $15 rental). The Holiday Fair in the Square market runs alongside it with food and gift vendors.

Getting There

Nathan Phillips Square. Osgoode or Queen subway. As central as it gets.
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