On November 13, the cobblestone streets of Toronto’s Distillery Historic District came alive as thousands gathered to witness Santa Claus illuminate the 2025 Christmas Tree, officially launching this year’s edition of The Distillery Winter Village. Presented by L’Oréal Paris, this globally celebrated holiday destination draws over a million visitors annually.
“This marks our 16th season of The Distillery Winter Village, previously known as the Toronto Christmas Market,” shared Rik Ocvirk, Vice President of The Distillery Restaurants Corp. and Director of Experiences and Events. “We aim to craft experiences that turn into cherished memories—whether it’s a romantic stroll beneath the lights, a family tradition by the tree, or a cozy moment with friends over hot chocolate. We hope every guest leaves feeling a little more enchanted than when they arrived.”
🎶 Following the tree lighting, attendees were treated to a live performance by internationally acclaimed vocal group The Tenors, featuring songs from their holiday album Christmas with The Tenors (Warner Music Canada). Proceeds from Opening Night ticket sales support local charities including Anishnawbe Health Foundation, Soulpepper Theatre, Crow’s Theatre, and The Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund.
🌟 A Tree Like No Other
Towering at 16.7 metres (55 feet), this year’s silver fir—dubbed Canada’s most photographed Christmas tree—sparkles with over 80,000 lights and 750 ornaments ranging from 15 to 50 cm (6 to 20 inches). The tree dazzles with golden starbursts, signature Winter Village snowflakes, and vibrant red finials set against lush green branches.
At its base, a custom 3.6-metre (12-foot) circular stage is surrounded by a whimsical holiday display. Hand-painted, 3D-printed vignettes depict nostalgic Christmas scenes, including a moving Bachmann Big Haulers G Scale Train and charming Canadian wildlife like moose, caribou, fawns, and bears. Lanterns inspired by the district’s historic aesthetic add a cozy glow. Over 1,000 hours went into crafting this festive centrepiece.
Following the season, the tree will be donated to Habitat for Humanity GTA to be used as mulch and reclaimed wood for 60 new homes being built in 2026.
✨ What’s New and Not-to-Miss in 2025
Running from November 13, 2025, through January 4, 2026, The Distillery Winter Village transforms the 13-acre pedestrian-only district into a twinkling holiday haven filled with culinary delights, artisan shopping, and immersive experiences. This year’s highlights include:
- L’Oréal Paris Cabin – A stylish pop-up celebrating the joy of giving. Guests can craft personalized greeting cards, sample beauty products, and enter to win one of three $220 Holiday Essentials prize packs.
- Chef’s Lane – A gourmet showcase featuring festive creations from top Canadian chefs: Bruno Feldeisen, Claudio Aprile, Nuit Regular, and Eric Chong.
- Stranger Things 5 Photo Experience – Step into the Byers’ living room for a supernatural selfie moment.
- Pura Vida Chocolate Experience – A tropical cocoa escape presented by Visit Costa Rica.
- Narnia-Inspired Santa’s Village – Enter through the wardrobe into a magical winter forest inside the Soulpepper Theatre lobby, brought to life with snow-dusted trees, shimmering lights, and animations by OCAD University students.
- 40 Food Cabins – Newcomers include Rick’s Good Eats, Santa Spuds (spiral potatoes), Robata-style skewers, Dubai Chocolates, and Craig’s Cookies. Returning favourites include Cluny’s torched s’mores hot chocolate, Yorkie Burrito, Japanese tacos, Raclette, and more.
- Two New Outdoor Bars – Sip seasonal drinks at the Ugly Sweater Patio Bar and Peppermint Patio Bar.
- Live Performances – Enjoy music from The McGregor Carollers, Canadian Opera Company, Mirvish Productions, Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, and the Myriad Ensemble.
- Family Fun – Daily Storytime with the Elves, puppet shows by Crane Creations Theatre Company, and A Super Simple Christmas with Caitie & Tobee.
- Photo Opportunities – Snap festive pics at Santa’s sleigh, the Naughty or Nice Bar, the Candy Cane Wreath, Santa Mail, the Snowpeople, the Big Heart, and the iconic Countdown to Christmas clock—all set against a backdrop of hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights.
🎟 Tickets & Planning Your Visit
Timed-entry tickets are required during peak periods: Fridays through Sundays after 4 p.m., Thursdays in December after 4 p.m., and daily from December 15–31 after 4 p.m., including New Year’s Eve. Children aged nine and under enter free. Tickets start at $15 (plus HST and admin fee), with four tiers available—including a combo ticket for the new immersive show Mythos at Illuminarum.
