Despite the cold weather, there is no need to hibernate with the many holiday activities happening throughout the month in East Toronto. Gather the family, go out and have some fun.
Carols by Candlelight
The Jubilee United Church on 40 Underhill Drive welcomes all to join them in celebrating the holidays with a night of Sacred Christmas music on December 13 at 7:30 P.M. The Jubilee United Church Choir will be presenting a bevy of traditional favorites by the soft glow of flickering lights. There is no charge to attend the service, but free-will donations are appreciated.
Visit the Scarborough Museum
Feast on hot chocolate and freshly baked goods on the weekends from noon to 4:00 P.M. at no charge.
The Holiday Baking Bonanza on December 6 from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. invites youngsters to create traditional holiday goods in a woodstove. They may then take their baked products home with a recipe booklet to share with family. Cost is $25 per child. Course code 2781125.
Desserts by Lamplight holiday fund-raising event takes place at the Scarborough Museum on December 12 from 6:30 to 9:00 P.M. Enjoy a decadent evening in softly lamp-lit rooms while indulging on a selection of delicious desserts while being serenaded by carolers. Tickets are $25 and space is limited.
Casa Loma Events
Magical Winterland Nights begin December 2 and continue through December 30. From 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., guests have the chance to stroll through the gardens that have been transformed into a winter wonderland. Scheduled Christmas activities include visits with Santa, scavenger hunts through the castle, live illusionist presentations and the opportunity to create festive arts and crafts.
The Pi Phi sisterhood invites moms and children to experience the special holiday event at Casa Loma on 1 Austin Terrace. Along with a selection of activities, children have the chance to see holiday mascots, decorate treats and sing along with carollers. The event occurs on December 12 from 1:30 to 4:00 P.M. Tickets are available at the door for both events. Admittance costs $27 for adults, $21 for youths aged 14 to 17 and $17 for children 13 and under.
The Leslieville Christmas Market
On December 12 and 13, from 11:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., holiday shoppers might find some unique gifts at the market located on 25 Booth Avenue. Parking is free and admittance requires nothing more than donated canned food. The festive destination promises to feature live music, Father Christmas arts and crafts booths along with cuisine vendors. There will also be a friendly competition to determine the best cup of hot chocolate and the best soup.
See Pippin
From December 11 through December 13, the Papermill Theatre presents the live action musical that tells the tale of a young man in search of happiness and life’s meaning. The Mainstage Theatre Company presents the timeless classic at 67 Pottery Rd. Tickets for all performances are $35 for adults and $20 for students.
Karen Franzen Holiday Show and Open House
The annual event takes place on 3 Wembley Drive from December 11 through December 13 and has become a holiday tradition. Guests are welcome to browse through the many different handmade crafts while enjoying a cup of hot cider. Visit with the artists and learn more about their work. Displays include everything from ceramics and dolls to fashion accessories and sterling silver jewellry. Admittance is free.
Visit the Black Creek Pioneer Village
Throughout the month of December, the iconic destination at 1000 Murray Ross Parkway presents many different opportunities to step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas. See the village aglow by candlelight and historic lamps at night. Enjoy a traditional three-course holiday meal and tour the village. See a live presentation of Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol.” Enjoy holiday foods, live music and fun-filled activities. Tickets are available online.