Don’t miss the opening night celebration from 6 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, November 29. The Christmas tree-lighting takes place at 6:30 p.m.

November 29 to January 7 at Nathan Phillips Square

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the much-loved Cavalcade of Lights presented by Desjardins Financial Group. With an opening night that illuminates winter’s darkness, Cavalcade of Lights is a free event that transforms City Hall and its surrounds into a dazzling wonderland.

Enjoy the glittering tree, participate in public skating and bask in the glow of thousands of energy-efficient bulbs as they adorn the heart of downtown Toronto. Bring your own skates or rent them on site.

Saturday, November 29, 6 to 11 p.m.

6 p.m. Welcome with DJ Classic Roots & guests on the main stage

6 to 7 p.m. Public skating on the rink

6 to 8 p.m. Christmas caroling by The Candy Cane Carolers roaming the Square

6, 6:30, 7, 7:30, 8, 8:30, 9 & 9:30 p.m. Diya decoration workshops led by artist Aakhya Singh. 30 spots available in each workshop. Register at the white tent near the doors to City Hall for a spot throughout the night.

6 to 10 p.m. Toy soldier and snow angel from NorthFIRE circus roaming the Square

6:30 p.m. Remarks on the main stage & Countdown to lighting the Christmas tree & Nathan Phillips Square

6:45 p.m. Candlelight concert by Fever Entertainment on the main stage

7:40 p.m. Figure skating performance on the rink, presented by Desjardins Financial Group

7:50 to 8:40 p.m. Public skating on the rink

8 p.m. Afro-Brazilian percussion music by Maracatu Mar Aberto roaming the Square

8 to 10 p.m. Snowflake kids doing LED poi and hula hoop performances by NorthFIRE circus roaming the Square

8:40 p.m. Electric violinist Dr. Draw with fire performance by NorthFIRE circus on the main stage

8:40 p.m. Klezmer parade band The Horah Machine roaming the Square

8:50 to 11 p.m. Public skating on the rink

9:15 p.m. Featured musical guest Juno Award nominee Tyler Shaw on the main stage

10 p.m. Closing remarks on the main stage

November 29, 6 to 11 p.m. and daily until January 7, 5 to 11 p.m.

We Change Each Other

A thought-provoking light installation that explores themes of unity and the amalgamation of cultures by Shilpa Gupta near the TORONTO Sign.

Lux Array

An interactive light and sound installation by Luxonous Collective near the TORONTO Sign. Its assembly of rotating squares become photo frames, inviting you to enter and become part of the artwork yourself.

ECHO

An interactive installation that allows you to explore the hidden power of your unique voice south of the main stage. Produced by Desjardins Financial Group.

Luminescence

An immersive experience in an illuminated dome east of the main stage.

Take advantage of free skate rentals courtesy of Desjardins Financial Group.

Saturdays, 4 to 10 p.m.

  • December 6
  • December 13
  • December 20
  • December 27
  • January 3

Every evening during Hanukkah, the City’s official Menorah is illuminated at approximately 4 p.m. One additional candle is lit each night.

Sunday, January 4, 1 to 5 p.m.

Glide into the new year with a skating party hosted by Mayor Olivia Chow and Toronto City Council. The celebration features remarks, music, free skate rentals and hot chocolate.

Location

Nathan Phillips Square 
100 Queen St. W.

Accessibility

Nathan Phillips Square offers accessible ramps, underground parking and washroom facilities for people who use wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Road Closures

Bay Street is closed between Albert Street and Queen Street West from 4 to 11 p.m. Queen Street remains closed between Bay Street and Church Street. Get the latest information on road closures across Toronto.

Parking

Parking is available nearby and under the Square. Find Green P parking lots available during the event.

TTC

Visit TTC.ca to plan your trip.

GO Transit

Plan your trip using GO Transit. Take advantage of GO Transit’s One-Day Weekend Pass or Weekday Group Pass.

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel Offers

Conveniently located across the street from Nathan Phillips Square, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel offers a variety of special offers and festive packages. Browse offers.

Presenting Sponsor

Logo of Desjardins

Programming Sponsors

Christmas Tree Lighting

Logo of Toronto Hydro

Main Stage Performances

Logo of West Jet

Luminescence

Logo of 95 Developments

Lux Array

Logo of Enbridge

On-site Sponsors

Logo of Snow T.O.
Logo for who gives a crap

Hotel Sponsor

Logo of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

Media Partners

Logo of CHUM 104.5
Logo of CP24
Black and white logo of Toronto Star
Logo of Virgin Radio 99.9

Transportation Partners

Logo of GO Transit
Logo of the Toronto Transit Commission