Overview

As we approach the festive season, Toronto prepares for both joy and a few logistical challenges. This year, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the two statutory holidays, fall midweek, resulting in numerous closures you should be aware of to plan your holiday activities effectively.

Outdoor Fun Awaits!

If you're looking to embrace the winter wonderland, over 50 outdoor ice rinks and skating trails will be open daily during the holidays! Iconic spots like Nathan Phillips Square welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. For a complete schedule of city-run rinks, be sure to check the official Toronto website.

Attractions That Won’t Let You Down!

Most attractions, including museums, will bow out on Christmas Day but will swing back into action on Boxing Day. However, a few key highlights will remain open: - **CN Tower:** December 25 & 26 – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. - **Ripley’s Aquarium:** December 25 – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - **Casa Loma:** December 25 – 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. - **Toronto Zoo:** December 25 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally, for animal lovers, the High Park Zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Christmas Day.

Shopping Hours: What to Expect!

As for your holiday shopping, here's a crucial breakdown: - **Grocery Stores:** Most locations will close on Christmas but some, like Rabba Fine Foods, will remain open. Eataly will also cater to your needs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on December 25. - **Banks and Canada Post Offices:** Both will be closed on December 25 and 26, so make sure to handle your transactions beforehand. - **LCBO and The Beer Store:** Closed on Christmas Day. Some select locations will adjust their hours on Boxing Day, so check ahead.

Malls and Retail Madness!

While most malls will close on Christmas Day, they will open their doors on Boxing Day with extended hours for shopping enthusiasts looking to cash in on holiday deals. Here’s a sneak peek into some local malls’ hours: - **Eaton Centre:** Open Dec. 26 from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. - **Yorkdale Mall:** Open Dec. 26 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. - **Dufferin Mall:** Reopening Dec. 26 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Public Libraries and Transit Services

Public libraries will close early on Christmas Eve at 1 p.m. and remain shut on the 25th and 26th. For transit users, GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule during the holidays, while TTC will also follow its holiday timetable.

Don't Miss Out!

This Christmas season in Toronto holds numerous activities and attractions to keep your spirits high, despite some closures. Make sure to check the hours for specific locations to avoid any disappointment, and most importantly, enjoy your holiday with friends and family! Whether you’re skating under the stars or enjoying a festive movie, Toronto has plenty in store. Happy holidays!