If you’re staying in Toronto or on campus for the holiday break, consider it your chance to explore the city at its coziest! Think glowing lights, winter adventures and plenty of new memories waiting to happen.
Winter in this city can actually be one of the most magical times of the year, especially when you know where to look. Here are some fun, budget-friendly ways to enjoy your break, plus a couple of York services that stay open while everything else slows down.
1. Explore Toronto’s winter festivals and light displays
Toronto loves a good winter festival, and December–January is basically the city’s season of glowing art installations.
Distillery Winter Village: Cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, holiday treats and endless photo ops. It’s especially great on weeknights when it’s quieter and cheaper.
Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square: Ice skating, music, art and the famous Toronto Christmas tree, all free!
The Bentway Skate Trail: A skate trail under the Gardiner Expressway (yes, really). Skate rentals are available, and the vibe is very “Toronto in the wild.”
Bundle up, bring a friend or go solo with headphones, and you’ve basically got the perfect winter evening.
2. Try something new: winter activities you can only do here
Even if you’re not from a snowy country, Toronto makes winter feel accessible.
Ice skating: The rink at Harbourfront Centre is one of the prettiest spots, and skate rentals are student-budget friendly.
Tobogganing: If you want to embrace winter chaos, grab a sled from the dollar store and try Riverdale Park or Cedarvale. Make sure to take safety precautions!
Pro tip: go skating or tobogganing at sunset for the best skyline view!
Explore the city’s indoor gems: The AGO, ROM, Ripley’s Aquarium and Gardiner Museum all offer student discounts; perfect for taking a break between your FaceTime calls home.
3. Cozy up with Toronto’s food scene
Winter in Toronto = comfort food season.
Explore new neighbourhoods and discover cuisines from around the world!
Koreatown (Bloor & Bathurst): Hotteok, Korean BBQ or a warm bowl of kimchi stew.
Kensington Market: Vintage shops + global food + hidden cafés = the ultimate student day trip.
North York & Markham: Bubble tea, dim sum, Korean fried chicken and the best late-night snacks.
Pro tip: If you’re on campus, York Lanes still has several food options open throughout the break, perfect for when you refuse to cook (relatable).
4. Make campus your recharge space
York doesn’t shut down completely during the holidays, so you still have support if you need it. A few great places and services that remain available.
York University Libraries: While Scott Library is closed for part of the break, you can still find study spaces around campus, borrow online materials and access online resources if you’re catching up on readings or working ahead.
Athletics & Rec: Many facilities stay open with reduced hours, so if you want to try yoga, lift weights or just walk on the indoor track to escape the cold, you can.
5. Find your community
Just because you’re staying in the city doesn’t mean you have to feel alone. Many colleges and student groups host low-key winter events, movie nights and mixers.
Pro tip: You can also check York International. They often run workshops, social events and trips during the holiday period.
Staying in Toronto over the holidays can actually be one of the most meaningful times of your year: it’s a chance to explore the city at your own pace, recharge, take care of yourself and maybe create your own traditions. Whether you’re skating by the lake, discovering a new neighbourhood or grabbing a warm drink on campus, there are countless ways to make the break fun, cozy and memorable.