Start sharpening your skates, Toronto – the city’s beloved holiday tradition is returning later this month!
The annual Cavalcade of Lights is set to transform Nathan Phillips Square into a dazzling winter wonderland starting Saturday, November 28, 2026, ushering in the festive season with a massive, completely free opening night celebration.
For over 50 years since 1967, the Cavalcade of Lights has marked the unofficial start of winter in Toronto, bringing together live music, spectacular fire performances, and the grand opening of the city’s iconic outdoor skating rink.
Located in the heart of downtown, the rink at Nathan Phillips Square is one of Toronto’s most photographed winter destinations. Framed by the illuminated ‘TORONTO’ sign, twinkling lights, and glowing arches, it offers a quintessential seasonal backdrop for visitors looking to embrace the holiday spirit.
Opening night kicks off with live musical performances starting at 6 p.m. Catch sets from DJ Classic Roots, The Candy Cane Carolers, Afro-Brazilian percussionists Maracatu Mar Aberto, electric violinist Dr. Draw, klezmer parade group The Horah Machine, and a headline show by Juno Award nominee Tyler Shaw.
The evening’s main attraction, of course, is the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree. Standing an impressive 58 feet tall, this year’s tree will be illuminated during a 6:30 p.m. countdown, dazzling spectators with more than 300,000 energy-efficient LED lights. The lighting will be followed by ice skating showcases, candlelight concerts, Diya decoration workshops with artist Aakhya Singh, and circus acts featuring fire and hula hooping.
Throughout Hanukkah, from December 14 to December 22, the City’s official Menorah will be lit nightly at 4 p.m., adding a new candle each evening. You can also celebrate the start of the year on January 4 at the New Year’s Skating Party hosted by Mayor Olivia Chow and Toronto City Council, complete with free skate rentals, hot cocoa, and local DJs.
Admission to the festival and public skating is completely free for all visitors, with skate rentals and sharpening services available on site if you need gear. Starting December 6, you’ll also be able to take advantage of free skate rentals every Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cavalcade of Lights will run at Nathan Phillips Square from Saturday, November 28, 2026, through Thursday, January 7, 2027.
