As part of the City’s COVID-19 response, the Welcome to Winter activities have been cancelled. Stay up-to-date on all affected City services and when they may resume by visiting toronto.ca/covid19.
Torontonians have celebrated winter for centuries. Each year, we welcome winter by sparking a little warmth and magic around the city.
Choose to lace up a pair of skates, toboggan down one of 28 hills or hit the trails on cross-country skis after a big snowfall. There is something for everyone!
From December 2 to March 22, Nathan Phillips Square will host free, drop-in programming.
| Date | Time | Program |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Friday | 12: 30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Lunchtime Skate Take a skate break for lunch – set to music, of course! |
| Tuesday | 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Guide your Glide Whatever your age, it’s never too late to learn this Canadian past-time. Join City of Toronto skate instructors for helpful tips and instructional guidance on the ice. |
| Friday and Saturday | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. | DJ Skate Night Music helps make the mood merrier. Hashtag your posts #welcomeTOwinter |
| Sunday | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Sunday Fun Day Join in on family-friendly activities on the ice. |
Can’t make it? You can stop by for free leisure skating any time. Events are weather permitting.
Most of the City’s outdoor rinks open for the season on November 30, 2019. Outdoor rinks are generally open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Visit our listing of Outdoor Rinks for rink updates, links to schedules and season dates.
Drop-in hockey and shinny is available for all ages at both indoor and outdoor rinks. Find out what to bring and when to play!
Earl Bales and Centennial Ski and Snowboard Centres offer lessons and drop-in rates, as well as equipment rentals. The season runs from January to March and is weather and snowfall dependent.
Toronto has 28 parks with tobogganing hills for you to enjoy. We offer great tips and tricks for staying safe while racing down the slopes.
After a big snowfall, hit the trails on snowshoes or cross-country skis. High Park is a great spot for beginners and families, or hop on a ferry and head to Toronto Island Park. Explore the hidden gems of the Don Valley ravine system, or take a 9 km adventure along the Beltline Trail.
Winter Stations are International Art Installation Competition in partnership with the Waterfront BIA February 17 to April 1, 2020.
Participants are tasked with designing temporary winter art installations which incorporate existing lifeguard towers spaced strategically across the city’s Kew and Woodbine beaches.
Explore winter magic this season at museums across the city. Join outdoor guided walks or toboggan in some of the most beautiful outdoor settings before warming up by a crackling fire. Try unique foodie experiences with special mouth-watering treats. Discover the winter beauty of Fort York’s 1812-era buildings during its annual Frost Fair. Shop local food vendors and glide along The Bentway Skate Trail where you will be joined by a Redcoat or two!
Visit the Welcome to Winter category on the Festival and Events calendar for a complete listing of all museum events.