Beginning Dec. 11, head over to Yonge and Dundas to enjoy this totally free magical winter festival, filled with rides, delicious snacks, campy holiday hits, live entertainment, special theme days and giveaways! Winter Glow is proof that carnival rides aren’t only meant for warmer weather — bundle up and ride the 45-foot-tall Ferris wheel, the Great Canadian Carousel, and of course, the teacups (each ride is one ticket — $6/ticket; $20/4 tickets; $37/8 tickets). Bring the family or a few friends and play midway games while indulging in a variety of carnival treats, including mini donuts, hot chocolate and more!
New this year, there will be a holiday market right in the middle of the festival. Artisan vendors, ranging from knitwear and jewelry to handmade chocolates, will offer the perfect holiday shopping opportunity. Also included in the market will be twinkling backdrops for the most festive photo-ops, a licensed Polar Point Bar with seasonal favourites (think mulled wine and spiked hot apple cider), real wood fire pits in case the frigid weather gets you down and even photos with Santa Claus.
Part of the fun of the holidays is gifts, and Winter Glow will be delivering with brand activation and pop-ups offering free samples, giveaways and more throughout the 11-day festival. Check back here for more information on brand pop-ups closer to the event.
Winter Glow at Sankofa Square
If you show up on opening night, Dec. 11, there will be some special festivities planned, including a performance by My Pop Choir, seasonal drinks and apparently plenty of festive surprises.
Winter Glow will run from Dec 11-21, from 4–10 p.m. on weekdays and 12–10 p.m. on weekends.
After more than 10,000 votes, the results are in: the Toronto Zoo has officially chosen the names of their two new Komodo dragons. Two weeks ago, the zoo welcomed the four-year-old Komodo dragon siblings, who have remained unnamed until now.
According to a press release by the zoo, the name chosen for the female dragon is Raya, meaning great or greatness, coming from the Malay language. Her brother’s namesake is a short form for Komodo dragon: Komo.
Komodo dragons are certainly a unique addition to the Toronto Zoo: they’re the largest and heaviest lizards on the planet, weighing close to 154 pounds. They’re currently an endangered species, with fewer than 3,500 Komodo dragons worldwide.
This species is also listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to threatening conditions like habitat loss and climate change.
Toronto Zoo CEO Dolf DeJong says it’s an exciting prospect to welcome these large lizards to the zoo, given their size and the opportunity to learn more about them.
“It’s amazing to have the largest living lizard species on Earth here at your Toronto Zoo,” said DeJong in the press release. “We often talk about making memories that last a lifetime, and coming in to see this endangered species, learning more about them, and having the unique opportunity to meet a real-life dragon is another way we are helping create those memories for our community.”
Raya is also part of the Adopt An Animal program at the zoo. The program helps safeguard endangered species, like the Komodo dragon. If you “adopt” her, the zoo will give you a certificate, a booklet on Komodo dragon species and more.
The Komodo dragons are still getting used to their new home, and remain quiet around people. While you can visit them, the zoo recommends using quiet voices near their habitat if you hope for them to come out.
A former Toronto airport hangar is about to turn into one of the city’s coolest winter playgrounds. Hangar Skate is coming back to the reinvented Downsview Airport lands (YZD) from Dec. 19, 2025 to Feb. 16, 2026, and this year’s edition is bigger (and icier) than ever.
Hangar Skate is now in its fourth year, and will feature just over 6,000 square feet of ice to skate on — roughly the size of a junior Olympic swimming pool!
This season’s theme is Fire and Ice, and the rink is being reimagined as an “enchanted forest” with glowing LED performances, atmospheric icy soundscapes and hands-on workshops. Around the plaza, you’ll find local eats, classic winter drinks and arcade games, creating a space that feels both magical and electric.
Even when Toronto’s winter weather takes a warmer turn, Hangar Skate is built on a fully refrigerated system: chilled brine runs through pipes laid over the asphalt, keeping the ice at about –4°C!
From Dec. 19–Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 25), head over for holiday program highlights that are all about skating and festive extras, including:
Glow & Glide opening night on Dec. 19 (5–9 p.m.), with LED drummers, a DJ from The Remix Project, roaming performers and on-ice freeze-dance moments.
A Winter’s Tale on Dec. 24 (12–5 p.m.), with classic holiday and winter films inside the YZD Experience Centre and surprise visits from dancing Nutcrackers!
“A Very 80s New Year’s Celebration” on Dec. 31 (12–5 p.m.), featuring DJ Me Time, glow sticks and two daytime countdowns for anyone who won’t be awake at midnight.
Photo by Dahlia Katz
In the New Year (Jan. 9–Feb. 16, 2026), don’t miss these winter season highlights:
Friday Nights (5–9 p.m.): DJ skate nights curated by The Remix Project, as well as board and arcade games in the Community Hall & Experience Centre (there will even be a board-game expert on hand to teach new favourites).
Saturdays (12–5 p.m.): Family-friendly afternoons with drop-in learn-to-skate lessons from 1 to 4 p.m., and free art workshops led by Studio Mooi.
Sundays (12–5 p.m.): More learn-to-skate time (1–4 p.m.), plus book-binding and paper-art classes with Big River Bindery and a Take One/Leave One library for book swaps.
There are also themed days, including the Enchanted Forest on Jan. 25 (dress as your favourite fantasy character) and Dynamic Duos: Fire & Ice on Feb. 14, with fire-and-ice performances and DIY cards for your favourite person! On Family Day (Feb. 16), there will be tons of free family activities, including an electrifying mix of music to get you dancing in your skates.
This year, Hangar Skate also doubles as an early stop on the 2026 Winter Stations circuit, the international design competition best known for transforming Toronto’s east-end lifeguard stations into public art each winter! One of the winning installations, created under the theme “Mirage,” will debut at YZD before heading to the Beaches, giving visitors a rare chance to see it up close ahead of the main exhibition.
Hangar Skate takes place at YZD Plaza & Experience Centre (34 Hanover Rd.). Skate rentals and helmets are available on site for a fee, but children under 12 can rent both skates and helmets for free! Helmet use is mandatory for kids 12 and under, and there’s $5 skate sharpening if you bring your own blades.
Toronto’s barbecue game just scored some serious international cred. The Underseasoned BBQ Show has released its list of the Top 50 BBQ Joints Outside the USA, spotlighting some of the tastiest smokehouses from across the globe. Three Canadian spots (including two from Toronto) ranked impressively high!
Golden trained in Texas at B4 Barbecue under pitmaster Nolan Belcher before bringing that experience home, and it shows in the menu. Expect classic Texas-style, wood-fired barbecue sold by the pound or half-pound, with trays loaded up with brisket, beef ribs, pulled pork, chicken, sausages, burnt ends and even a monthly whole-hog cookout. Prices are fair: sausages go for $7, half a chicken for $20, brisket for $23, and ribs for $15, with sides between $6 and $9 (read more about why Golden Horseshoe BBQ is the only line worth standing in).
Number 12 on the list is Kyle’s Fried Chicken + BBQ in London, Ont. (45 Pacific Ct.), located next to the Forked River Brewing Company. Underseasoned describes the spot as “Texas swagger meets Canadian wood-fired barbecue,” cooked on dual 1,000-gallon offset smokers from Bog Line Smokers (the same Canadian pit builder used by Toronto’s Golden Horseshoe). Owner and pitmaster Kyle Wyatt regularly travels to Texas to stay up to date with the latest pit techniques, flavour profiles and smoker innovations, so diners can expect some seriously good fried chicken and delicious barbecue-loaded poutine.
@cherrystbbq/Instagram
Cherry Street Bar-B-Que (275 Cherry St.) in Toronto ranks No. 14, making it the third (and final) Canadian destination on the list — no surprise here, since it’s been recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2022 for offering “good quality, good value” cooking. The Port Lands smokehouse operates out of a restored 1920s bank building and has become one of Toronto’s defining barbecue spots over the past decade. Underseasoned raves about the restaurant’s pit-smoked meats cooked over live oak and white oak using classic Southern smoking techniques!
Pitmaster and owner Lawrence La Pianta also has serious credentials: he trained at legendary 17th Street BBQ in Illinois and spent years competing and judging on the Kansas City Barbeque Society circuit, one of the largest BBQ competition organizations in the world.
And Cherry’s is just one project from La Pianta, who recently opened Elm Street Italian Deli on Toronto’s east side.
Underseasoned is a podcast and website that’s devoted entirely to global barbecue culture, so it carries a lot of weight in the industry. The Top 50 BBQ joints outside the U.S. include heavy hitters from places like London, Rotterdam, Monterrey, Singapore and Melbourne (you can see the full list here).
Christmas is just weeks away, and that means charming Hallmark movies are flooding the streaming platforms. Instead of solely experiencing Christmas magic on your TV screen, why not enjoy the festivities in real life? Ontario is brimming with Hallmark-style Christmas towns that are full of holiday spirit.
If you’re looking for the ultimate Christmas village with that warm, glowy movie theatre feeling, winter in Niagara-on-the-Lake looks suspiciously like the set of a Victorian holiday film. It’s laden with snow-dusted cobblestone-style streets, horse-drawn carriages clopping past 19th-century brick façades and twinkling lights wrapped around lampposts. Along Queen Street, you’ll find landmarks like the Prince of Wales Hotel and rows of heritage storefronts that have earned the town comparisons to “Stars Hollow” from Gilmore Girls (only with more wineries).
@niagara.on.the.lake/Instagram
The town’s Heritage District (“Old Town”) is known for its preserved historic architecture and walkable main street, lined with boutiques, cafés and cute little storefronts that you’d swear were pulled straight from a holiday rom-com!
During the festive season, the charm gets dialled up a notch. Head over to Just Christmas: it’s Canada’s oldest year-round Christmas store and has been a fixture on Queen Street since 1985. Expect more than 5,000 ornaments and holiday décor items in a creaky-floored heritage building (it’s truly one of the best spots to wander through when you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas movie montage).
Courtesy Just Christmas
Stroll the snowy streets of the Heritage District while enjoying holiday performances from Niagara-area musical groups as part of the annual Candlelight Stroll on Dec. 5. Then attend the classic small-town Santa Claus Parade on Dec. 13, followed by holiday house tours (Dec. 5–6) and markets that run throughout December.
If you love a good Christmas story, build a trip around the Shaw Festival’s holiday season. The year often ends with super festive programming that will get you into the spirit; in 2025, get your fill of Ebenezer Scrooge through A Christmas Carol at the Royal George Theatre. If you’re more into heartwarming holiday musicals, check out Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at the Festival Theatre (both productions run through late December, making it easy to pair a show with a cozy winter weekend).
Of course, festive food is a major part of holiday flicks, and Niagara-on-the-Lake’s enviable food scene will keep you stuffed over the holidays! Treadwell Cuisine is a farm-to-table staple that lies in the heart of town and is known for showcasing Niagara ingredients alongside local wines in a refined but relaxed dining room. They even offer stress-free “Christmas Heat & Serve” takeout packages, with roasted turkey and traditional sides that feel very on brand for a Hallmark movie Christmas dinner.
You can also pay a visit to the historic, British-style Olde Angel Inn. The pub dates back to the late 18th century, so you can dine amidst exposed beams and thick plank floors from 1815 (the perfect backdrop if you like your fish and chips with a side of old-world, Dickensian charm). Stop by some local bakeries and jam shops, like Greaves Jams & Marmalades, for the most perfect old-fashioned preserves and pantry treats, and you’ll have the best snack-friendly winter weekend.
And because you’re in wine country, make sure to check out the seasonal menus and snow-packed vineyard views at wineries across the region. Watch out for holiday-themed events, like Skate with Santa at Wayne Gretzky Estates, the Corks & Christmas Blooms floral workshop at Peller Estates and the Holiday Sparkle & Sip jewelry event at Thirty Bench Wine Makers (perfect after a holiday horse-and-carriage ride!).
Even after the calendar flips to January, the Heritage District transforms for the annual Niagara Icewine Festival. Sip on a variety of Icewines from local vineyards, surrounded by thousands of acres of snow-covered vines, live music and ice sculptures.
At first glance, the menu at Gloria keeps it humble. “French Toast,” it says. No adjectives. No clues. No warning. Then it arrives, and you realize this isn’t just French toast — it’s something else entirely.
Sitting pretty in a pool of blueberry compote, Gloria’s version looks more like a slice of cake than breakfast. It’s a thick-cut brioche cube — golden, custardy and crispy on the edges —topped with a tower of whipped vanilla cream, a dollop of Biscoff cookie butter, crushed pistachios, cocoa powder, and a slow drizzle of maple syrup.
You’ll find it at Gloria, the French-American bistro inside the historic Great Hall (formerly Astoria). The restaurant comes from the team behind Bar Poet — Rob Dyer and Spencer McMahon — who joined forces with Adrian Montes de Oca of Milou and chef Shivam Munjal.
Together, they reimagined the Queen West space once known as Otto’s Bierhalle, turning it into a nostalgic, moody brasserie that blends the divide between old world and new.
“Gloria’s menu is classic, which is what we aim for,” Munjal says. “But the French toast at brunch has a few unique twists that make it stand out. When a dish hits the table and guests smile, that’s always a good sign.”
The inspiration, he explains, came from the flavour profile of traditional French toast —blueberries, maple syrup, cinnamon and cream—but with a chef’s touch. “We didn’t reinvent the classic, just made it a little fun and exciting for everyone.”
Munjal describes the process: “Whole loaves of bread are delivered for weekend brunch service. We trim the crust and cut them into thick cubes — each one only makes a few portions. A slit is made into the side of the bread and filled with blueberry filling before it’s soaked in French toast batter and cooked in butter on all sides for that golden brown finish. It’s served with maple syrup and fresh whipped vanilla cream made to order. On the side is a spoonful of whipped lotus cookie butter — that’s a personal favourite cookie of mine.”
If this sounds like dessert disguised as breakfast, that’s the point. Historically, French toast was a way to save stale bread; at Gloria, it’s how you ruin every other brunch spot in the city.
Beyond brunch, Munjal — who’s cooked at Nodo Junction, Harbour 60, Marbl and Bar Poet before becoming executive chef at Gloria, Public Gardens, Ruby SoHo, and Café Renee — brings a deeply personal touch to Gloria’s menu.
“A guest favourite is the braised short rib,” he says. “It’s slow-cooked prime short rib with mashed potatoes, pearl onions and a red wine jus. It’s a classic we put the love into — great for cooler nights.”
Gloria is located at 1087 Queen St. W. Brunch served Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Toronto doesn’t wait for an excuse to eat dumplings. But winter might be the best one we have. As the cold sets in, there’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bamboo basket, a crispy lace-skirted fold, or a soup dumpling that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re craving classic Cantonese dim sum, northern-style boiled dumplings or soup-filled pockets of joy, this city has more than enough options to get you through the season.
Here’s your ultimate Toronto dumpling guide — from mom and pop shops to elevated dining rooms, and everything in between.
1. Dim Sum King
@dimsumqueento/Instagram
If the name didn’t already give it away, this Chinatown staple is all about dumplings. On weekends, the dining room buzzes with rolling carts stacked high with har gow, siu mai, and every dim sum classic you can imagine. The vibe is casual, the service brisk, and the dumplings always reliable. 421 Dundas St. W.
2. Hero Dumpling
One of the city’s newest additions, Hero Dumpling opened in October 2025 and quickly earned a reputation for ultra-affordable dumplings that punch above their price point. Expect all the classics — steamed, pan-fried, or soup-filled — with most options hovering around a few dollars. Fun fact: the team has family ties to the beloved Juicy Dumpling, and it shows. 437 Yonge St.
3. Juicy Dumpling
@juicydumpling.ca/Instagram
If you know dumplings, you know Juicy Dumpling. Lightning fast, unbelievably affordable and home to some of the city’s bestselling xiao long bao, this spot is synonymous with quick, cheap, delicious comfort. The broth-filled soup dumplings remain the star — thin-skinned and piping hot. 280 Spadina Ave. | 2150 Yonge St.
4. Yummy Yummy Dumplings
Don’t let the no-frills exterior fool you — this “if you know, you know” spot is a treasure for
northern-style dumplings. Everything here is made from scratch to order, and the menu offers a dizzying variety. It also carries a bit of dumpling lore: this address used to house the original Mother’s Dumplings before they relocated to Spadina. 79 Huron St.
5. Bao House
@baohouseto/Instgaram
The younger downtown sibling of a North York dim sum favourite, Bao House delivers one of life’s greatest joys: affordable dim sum that never breaks the bank. Expect all the classics — from fluffy steamed buns to soupy dumplings — with almost everything under $15. 171 Dundas St. W.
6. Qin’s Garden
@qinsgardencanada/Instagram
This Chinatown import brings centuries of dumpling-making pedigree — the family behind Qin’s has been serving soup dumplings in Wuxi, China since 1751. Their Toronto outpost specializes in Jiangnan-style eats, with delicate, thin-skinned soup dumplings made to order. 435 Spadina Ave.
7. Dumpling House
@leesdumplinghouse/Instagram
A Chinatown fixture since 2005, Dumpling House is where you go for pan-fried dumplings with the legendary “lace skirt” — that crisp, golden web that connects each dumpling with a crispy netting. Watch the dumpling makers work their magic in the front window, then dig into a plate alongside their famous hot-and-sour soup or General Tao’s chicken. 328 Spadina Ave.
8. Ding Tai Fung
Not to be confused with the international chain, this Scarborough spot has long been Toronto’s OG go-to for soup dumplings. Their xiao long bao are textbook-perfect: delicate skins, rich broth, and a reputation that’s kept them busy for years. 175 Commander Blvd.
9. Lai Wah Heen
Lai Wah Heen
For a more refined take, Lai Wah Heenoffers high-end Cantonese cuisine in a polished downtown dining room. Once hailed as “North America’s best dim sum,” the restaurant has recently reopened with a refreshed space and continues to impress with elevated dishes like lobster dumplings and foie gras siu mai. 108 Chestnut St.
10. Mother’s Dumplings
Beloved for its handmade, family-recipe dumplings, Mother’s serves them boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. The Pork & Dill dumplings are a standout — fresh, herby and available frozen so you can stock your freezer. With vegan options and shareable plates, it’s a go-to for groups. 421 Spadina Ave.
11. FeasTOronto (Food Truck)
Canada’s first dumpling food truck is taking dumplings mobile. Don’t forget to order yours frozen for the winter or follow their socials to see where they’ll pop up next. Their menu spans homestyle pork to Thai green curry pork, proving dumplings can handle just about any flavour. Various locations (check Instagram)
The Canadian-Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train is officially on the road (or rather, the train tracks)! This annual train, filled with live entertainment and covered from top to bottom in dazzling lights, will visit communities across North America (including a pit stop in Toronto) from Nov. 19 to Dec. 21, raising money, food and awareness to support local food banks.
At each stop, professional musicians will play free concerts from the train’s brightly decorated stage. As it’s the holidays, expect a mix of traditional and modern holiday-themed songs!
The events are free to attend, but attendees are encouraged to make a monetary or food donation to attend. Since 1999, the Holiday Train program has raised more than $24.3 million and more than 5.3 million pounds of food for North American food banks. Best of all — all donations raised at a Holiday Train stop remain in that community.
On the morning of Nov. 28, the train will hit Finch, Ont., before making stops in Merrickville, Smith Falls and Perth. On Nov. 29, the train will begin in Belleville before going to Trenton, Coburg, Bowmanville and Oshawa, and ending the day in Toronto (at 750 Runnymede Rd., at Runnymede Rd. and St. Clair Ave. W.). From 8:30-9 p.m., Torontonians can listen to live music from Jade Eagleson and Teigen Gayse!
Courtesy CNW Group/CPKC
If you can’t make the performance on Nov. 29, the train will pass through Vaughan on the morning of Nov. 30 before trekking all the way to Sudbury.
Unfortunately, guests won’t be able to ride the Holiday Train, but photos are encouraged! Make sure to get to the stop on time — the train has places to be to spread holiday cheer and won’t be deviating much from its schedule!
Click here for more details and here for more holiday events in the city.
Toronto rap fans got an unusually healthy way to pre-game for a concert on Monday morning: they laced up with Atlanta-based rapper Gunna for a 5K run at Exhibition Place, just hours before the four-time Grammy nominee is set to take the stage at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
The 5K Toronto run started at 9 am outside the Coliseum, in partnership with Under Armour, as part of Gunna’s travelling Wunna Run Club series.
For USD 75, runners got some serious swag: a race bib, an exclusive Gunna Run t-shirt, a running towel and a spot in the 5K alongside the rapper and his team!
The event swapped traditional finisher medals with metal chains, and runners were invited to celebrate the 5K race with photos in front of a Wunna Run backdrop.
“Chasing Health & Wealth not Clout,” one Toronto fan, posing with Gunna, posted in an Instagram post Monday morning.
The run is part of what Gunna’s team describes as “a cultural movement that blends performance, style and community,” bringing a sort-of tour stop vibe out of the arena and onto the streets.
Like the rest of the Wunna Run events, proceeds from the 5K support Gunna’s Great Giveaway Foundation, the Atlanta-based nonprofit he founded to uplift underserved communities through service projects, donations and programs for families in need.
The Wunna Run Club itself is only a few months old. As per Canadian Running, Gunna launched it with a 5K in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park earlier this fall in partnership with NYCRUNS (a debut that drew more than 1,000 runners).
The response was big enough that Gunna and Under Armour expanded the concept into a seven-city 5K series as part of his Wun World Tour, with stops in New York, Toronto, Washington, Miami, Atlanta, Houston and LA.
If anything, this morning’s 5K was just the warm-up! Gunna brings his Wun World Tour stops to Coca-Cola Coliseum on Nov 24 and 25, with back-to-back 8 pm shows. Fans will likely hear newer material like “Him All Along” and “Won’t Stop,” as well as streaming faves from his catalogue, like “Prada Dem” and “Whatsapp (Wassam)” and earlier hits like “Banking on Me”.
Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve … your feed was full of it. But while the crowds are thinning in Portugal, here in Toronto, things are just heating up. Over the past year, Portuguese restaurants, bakeries and snack bars have opened across the city — and they’re not just for people craving custard tarts (though yes, there are very good custard tarts). So why now? Some of it is timing. Portugal’s been one of Europe’s fastest-rising travel destinations, thanks to its affordability, natural beauty and rich culture. But this local boom is also about identity: second-gen chefs and entrepreneurs returning to their roots and reshaping the traditions they grew up with for a new audience. Whether or not you made the trip this summer, the Portuguese vibe has officially landed — and it’s not going anywhere.
Douro on Dundas
@taberna_lx_to/
Long-awaited restaurant Taberna LX, from the team behind Paris Paris brings Lisbon to Dundas West, complete with hand-painted Portuguese tiles, Azorean volcanic wines and a rooftop mural of the Douro River. Even Nelly Furtado, a close friend of co-owner Kelly Amaral, gave it her early stamp of approval. Fifteen years in the making, the two-storey space is deeply personal for Amaral — located in the same neighbourhood where her parents opened the city’s first Portuguese grocery store in the 1960s. It’s a full-circle moment, shaped by Amaral’s own connection to both Toronto and modern-day Portugal. “It’s really about creating a space that is not just about esthetics, and it’s not just about food — it’s all those things encompassing,” she says. Chef Jonathan Poon’s menu goes well beyond clichés, with dishes reflecting Portugal’s global reach — from African and Indian influences to a salt cod fritter inspired by Hong Kong dim sum.“There’s no restaurant serving this type of food in Toronto,” says Poon. 1161 Dundas St. W.
Next-gen nata
When Café Belém opened in early 2025, it quickly became a destination for anyone craving pastéis de nata done right — or looking for a hit of modern Portugal over espresso and port-glazed croissants. Now, the father-son team behind the bakery has expanded, with a second, much larger outpost in the St. Clair West village. “Since the place is very big, we have allocated a space to do a pop-up of a project that me and my chefs from Mercado have been very fond of,” says Carlos Oliveira. That project? Alma Lusa, which he calls “the first Portuguese snack bar in Toronto.” Unlike Mercado, which leans more formal, Alma Lusa and Café Belém are keeping things casual — think grab-and-go bifanas, piri piri chicken sandwiches and cold beer in hand. “The vibes are hip and light, representing a new Portugal that is fun and diverse but respecting the old and the traditions,” says Oliveira. “We want people to walk in and feel that they have entered a travel loop, being transported into Europe from Portugal.” 352 Oakwood Ave.
Tradition on tap
The Francesinha from Taberna Nacional
Chef and owner Sergio Abrunho sees Taberna Nacionalas more than a restaurant: it’s a celebration of Portuguese food and culture in Toronto.“Portuguese food isn’t just something you eat, it’s something you live. It’s about gathering around the table with family, sharing stories and keeping traditions alive through recipes passed down for generations,” Abrunho says. The restaurant’s authentic Mediterranean menu features dishes rooted in Portugal’s rich culinary history, like piri piri tiger shrimp, Cornish hen ‘Guia style’ and francesinha — a hearty sandwich from Porto. The flavours “are simple but rich, rooted in the land and the ocean,” Abrunho notes, highlighting how Portuguese cuisine reflects the country’s diverse history of exploration and global influences. Located on College Street, Taberna Nacional’s brew house, built by Abrunho and his team, adds a unique twist, showcasing traditional Portuguese flavours in their craft beers. Portugal’s growing popularity as a travel destination also fuels interest in its cuisine. “Portugal is becoming a top travel spot because it offers a little bit of everything — beautiful beaches, charming cities, rich history and amazing food,” says Abrunho. “People love the relaxed vibe, friendly locals and the chance to explore both culture and nature. 928 College St.
Popular Portuguese Street Eats
BIFANA
Bom Dia
Portugal’s late-night hero: juicy pork marinated in white wine and garlic, then slapped into a crusty bun. Bom Dia, 389 Danforth Ave.
GRILLED SARDINES
Simple, smoky and super tasty — these little fish are grilled until perfectly charred and ready to eat right off the bone. Chiado, 864 College St.
RISSÓIS
Crunchy on the outside, creamy shrimp surprise on the inside, these fried pastries are the perfect bites. Nova Era Bakery, 200 Geary Ave.
If you’re looking to add a little extra magic to your Christmas travel adventures, there’s a charming town just about two hours from Toronto that might be one of Ontario’s best-kept holiday secrets. While other small towns are still packing away cobweb decorations and jack-o’-lanterns, this little theatre village is already in full-on holiday mode, with Christmas trails, markets, festivals, and live shows!
Stratford sits on the Avon River within Perth County, about halfway between London and Kitchener. While it’s mainly known for its world-renowned theatre festival, the town is brimming with Christmas activities throughout the colder months, making it a perfect spot for a holiday weekend filled with shopping and soaking in the magic of the season.
This year, kick the festive season off with the Seasonal Christmas Trail (runs until Dec 20). Stratford and neighbouring towns like St. Marys, Shakespeare and Mitchell turn into one big holiday scavenger hunt! There are 50 stops on the trail, each one ready with treats, festive gifts and cute stocking stuffers.
Instead of following a strict route, you can build your own. For $35 (+HST), choose six special gifts from participating stops, whether that’s something edible, cozy or something that just screams holiday mantlepiece material!
Because it’s Stratford, pair a day of holiday trailing with some world-class theatre show or music production.
If the indie scene is more your style, Here For Now Theatre is staging intimate, thought-provoking shows this holiday season, including Reproduction (runs Nov 19-30) and Ruby and the Reindeer (Dec 10-24). For classical music lovers (or anyone looking for an elevated night out), check out the Stratford Symphony Orchestra’s presentation of Handel’s Messiah (Dec 13, 14).
Of course, you’ll have to check out a Stratford Festival production! The world-renowned theatre company has a slate of extended-run shows that runs well into December. This season, check out Annie (on stage until Dec 14), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (until Nov 23) and Macbeth (until Nov 22).
Before you leave, set apart some time to stroll through the snow-powdered cobbled streets and explore iconic buildings and sites in Stratford’s downtown core. You’ll notice glitzy holiday lights and shop windows where everyone seems determined to ‘out-cute’ each other with the most swoon-worthy holiday-style décor! Of course, feel free to join a more organized walking tour. Each walk has a specific theme, like the History and Heritage morning tour (where you’ll learn about the people, places and events that shaped the history of the town) and the popular Stratford Ghost Walk, which focuses on haunted stories from the past.
If you’re a night owl, the city doesn’t sleep after sunset. Whether you’re in the mood for jazz, craft beer flights, or late-night snacks, there’s usually something happening within a few blocks. Bentley’s Bar Inn & Restaurant is a local fave for live music and eats, while The Bunker Performance Lounge & Café is the perfect spot for spoken word poetry and karaoke (you can check out more after-dark spots here).
If your love language is holiday markets, Stratford offers some of the most magical shopping experiences. Get into the holiday spirit while shopping from 55 talented handmade vendors at the Stratford Sparkles Christmas Market (Nov 30). Or check out the Bruce Hotel’s German-inspired indoor holiday market(Nov 29, 30), where the hotel transforms into a festive hideaway filled with handcrafted goods and seasonal cheer. That same weekend, downtown Stratford transforms into a two-day holiday Winter Wander-land. Expect Polar Express-style train rides for kids, guided horse and wagon rides, roaring fires, treats and Christmas trees for sale, roaming carolers and even a visit from St. Nick!
If twinkling festive lights are more your style, the 6th Annual Lights On Stratford Winter Festival of Lights runs from Dec 12, 2025, to Jan 18, 2026. During the festival, Stratford’s historic downtown, riverside parks and public spaces are transformed with interactive light installations and glowing displays (so, perfect for Insta photos and slow strolls with loved ones).
One of the best parts of the holiday season is choosing the most perfect Christmas tree —who doesn’t love the fragrance of fresh, crisp, woodsy pine circulating throughout their home? It evokes the very essence of the holiday season, creating a festive atmosphere!
Best of all, going tree hunting with family and friends is part of the holiday adventure and can lead to a memorable annual tradition. If you live in Toronto, you won’t have to venture too far out of the city to find a traditional cut-your-own Christmas tree farm. Here are some farms worth visiting this season to find the most majestic Pine, Spruce, or Fir tree to adorn your home with over the holidays.
This family Christmas Tree farm is located just north of the village of Hillsburgh, about an hour’s drive from Toronto. They have tons of premium fresh-cut Fir trees available for purchase and offer a traditional cut-your-own tree experience (choose from Spruce or Fir)! Once you select your tree, they will wrap it in netting at no extra charge for transportation home. The farm also has tree stands available in their Heritage Barn as well as their award-winning delicious small-batch maple syrup, handmade wreaths, and tons of local and Ontario gifts that would make great stocking stuffers! Open Daily until Dec. 23, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 9467 Erin East Garafraxa Townline, Hillsburgh, Ont.
This fourth-generation tree farm is just an hour north of Toronto and offers a magical Christmas and Holiday Village, filled with trees that are ready to cut or already pre-cut! After you cut your tree, make it an all-out holiday adventure by riding on a horse-drawn wagon, roasting marshmallows on an open fire, and of course meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus! Operates until Dec. 21. Pre-cut trees are available for purchase daily; cut-your-own Christmas tree experiences are available daily until 4 p.m. Holiday festivities take place on Saturdays and Sundays only. 6635 County Road 56 in Egbert, Ont.
This rustic, family-owned-and-operated Christmas tree farm sells farm-fresh Fir and Spruce ‘cut-your-own’ trees, a selection of pre-cut trees, as well as a variety of greenery to decorate your home for the holidays! This is the perfect place to create family memories that will last a lifetime — book a visit with Santa and take some cute family photos. Browse through the local market and find the perfect Christmas gifts for everyone on your list. Sip on delicious hot drinks and visit the cute farm animals! Open Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Mondays to Wednesdays: Closed. Thursdays and Fridays: 4 p.m.–8 p.m. 1962 Durham Regional Rd 3, Enniskillen, Ont.
This sprawling, 50-acre Christmas tree farm is in its third generation, making it one of the oldest ‘choose-and-cut your own tree farms’ in Ontario, dating back to the 1950s. Stroll through picturesque rolling land as you search for the perfect tree — they’ll have about 12,000 trees growing in various stages over a span of 11 fields (so you’ll definitely find a tree you’ll love)! Feel free to bring along a toboggan and take advantage of their luscious hills if there’s snow! The farm is a 45-minute drive north of Toronto and about 30 minutes from Whitby, Ajax, and Pickering. You’ll have to act fast though, the farm will only be open for two weekends this year: Nov. 29–30 and Dec. 6–7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Based on inventory, the farm may also open for Dec. 13–14. 6119 Concession Road 3, Uxbridge, Ont.
This gorgeous farm is only about a 45-minute drive from Toronto and offers a large selection of harvest-your-own Christmas trees, pre-harvested Christmas trees, evergreen landscape trees retail, and wholesale trees. The farm has a huge selection of Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Spruce, and Pine trees ready for the picking (cutting?) across 60+ acres of land! Saws are provided, although patrons are encouraged to bring their own saws, if possible. Last-minute tree cutters will be happy to know that they’re open until Christmas Eve (from Nov. 29 to Dec. 24, they’re open 7 days a week). Mondays to Fridays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Cash payment only. Prices: Balsam Fir all sizes: $70 | Fraser Fir all sizes: $75 | Spruce & Pine all sizes: $60. 1421 Prestonvale Rd, Courtice, Ont.
If you’re not up for cutting down a tree and hauling it on the back of your car, then Pingle’s Farm is the answer! This farm is less than an hour’s drive from Toronto and it offers a magical Christmas farm experience complete with a Mistletoe Market stocked with pre-cut trees. The farm will also host a ton of Christmas festivities this season, like free hot chocolate for kids, Christmas carollers singing traditional holiday music, fancy drinks for adults, delicious donuts and poutine, DIY ornament craft stations, bonfires, photos with Santa, an ugly Christmas sweater party, and more! The Mistletoe Market is available every day week, but if you want the full Christmas experience, visit on the weekends. 1805 Taunton Rd, Hampton, Ont.
