Things to Do on Christmas Day in Toronto: Parks and Plazas

The Zoo’s own event page invites guests to celebrate Christmas Day at the Zoo on Friday, December 25. It calls the day a new tradition. The Zoo says families can create lasting memories surrounded by its wildlife. If your crowd includes small children or animal fans, this is the one stop on our list with a page written for the day, so start there and check the page for tickets and times.

The City says ferries to Toronto Island run year-round from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. From October 14 to mid-April, its winter schedule lists Ward’s Island departures. A winter ferry ride is a small adventure on its own: you cross the harbour, the skyline turns around behind you, and a quiet shoreline walk follows. The City notes that ferry schedules are subject to change because of weather or mechanical issues, so check the ferry page for Christmas Day sailings and any changes.

The City says approximately two-thirds of High Park remains in a natural state. It also says residents and visitors can enjoy the park’s wildlife, attractions, playgrounds and natural features year-round. That makes it a natural choice for a post-dinner stroll with the whole family, at whatever pace the youngest legs allow.

The City describes eleven parks along 15 km of the Scarborough Bluffs. It says they feature views of the bluffs and Lake Ontario, trails, beaches, gardens and more. Pick one park, bring a thermos, and let the lake do the entertaining. Our Scarborough neighbourhood page has more on the area.

The City says the Martin Goodman Trail is part of a larger network of over 300 km of trails in Toronto. Its Unwin Avenue section, completed in 2019, filled a missing link to complete a 20+ km trail along the waterfront from the western to the eastern beaches. You do not need to do all of it. Walk a stretch from the nearest TTC stop, turn around when the cold says so, and call it a win.

Parks Canada describes the park as a mix of forests, creeks, farms and trails, plus marshland, a beach on Lake Ontario and human history spanning 10,000 years. Parks Canada suggests checking its park bulletins before your visit. Do that, pick a trail, and you have a full afternoon without needing a plan.

The City lists Cavalcade of Lights from November 28, 2026 to January 7, 2027 at Nathan Phillips Square. Its December calendar for the square lists Cavalcade of Lights from December 1 to 31. The City says the lighting elements, select immersive installations and free public skating to music remain until January 7. That same calendar lists December 25 as a date but gives no programme for it, so check the Cavalcade page for what is on that day.

The City says it operates more than 50 outdoor rink locations in a typical season. Its Drop-in Skating page has a map for checking whether a given outdoor rink is open. If skates are on the family wish list this year, a neighbourhood rink is a lovely way to try them out, once you have confirmed the rink is open.