Hello everyone! Christmas is quickly approaching and so are the many festivities that go along with it. Even during this unprecedented time of COVID-19, many places are still holding annual Christmas fairs, walks, and also the newly introduced drive-thru. These festivities are still happening, just with special safety measures put in place. Let’s dive into some of these events and how they are saying safe this holiday season!
- Polar – Mississauga
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This is a magnificent drive-thru display of lights in Mississauga, at Toronto Pearson. You can still attend this event during this time, with the safety measures of being in your car as you drive through an amazing maze of lights. To take safety measures further, you do have to pre-purchase your ticket before arrival. The price for one car is $45! You can enjoy this amazing event until January 3, 2021. You can find any additional information on their website: Polar Drive.
- One of a Kind Winter Show – Online
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If you are a lover of handmade goods then this show is for you! To stay safe this holiday season this show will take place online. You will find many different things such as uniquely painted holiday ornaments, wreaths, baked goods, and so many more Christmas decorations. More than 700 small businesses will attend these shows, giving you many opportunities to shop small this holiday season. This show will run until December 20, 2020. You can find specifics such as the time and any other detailed information here: One of a Kind Show.
- Winter Village – The Distillery District
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Unfortunately the annual Toronto Christmas Market is officially canceled. However, there will still be lights set up, a nice Christmas tree, and you can still curbside pickup from most of the shops as well. They are advising that those who are not from the local area do not attend, due to COVID and keeping up with safety measures. Both the holiday lights and Christmas tree will be lit up from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. You do have to wear your mask as an added safety measure as well. To find all the additional information you will need to attend you can visit their website here: The Distillery District.
- Journey Into Enchantment – Markham
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This is another drive-thru light journey. This drive-thru is located in Markham and runs until January 7, 2021. This one is special as they have partnered with the Sick Kids and Toronto animal shelter charities. They have dedicated up to $100,000 for Sick Kids and $20,000 from the funds that are curated from this event. Prices vary based on attendees, and the number of visits but tickets start at $29.95 and go up from there. You can find out more information about this event on their website here: Magical Lights.
- Winter Wonders – Burlington
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This is another light festival that you can attend this holiday season located at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington! The difference with this light festival is that you can walk through this winter wonderland! You are guided through the trail at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hendrie Park. They suggest that you wear a face mask when staying 6 feet apart from others is not possible. This event runs Wednesdays to Sundays until December 20 and some of their additional dates are as follows, Dec 21-23, 27-30, Jan 2, 3. Prices vary, however, the average adult ticket costs $18. This is a great option if you are looking for a light festival to attend that is not a drive-thru.
I hope you find one or more of these events interesting. I know for a fact that I will attend the One of a Kind Winter Show as I love shopping and supporting local businesses that craft small handmade gifts. Always check the websites linked to these events before partaking so that you’re aware of all the necessary information regarding their COVID safety procedures and any additional and relevant information. I hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season!