A hush will fall over much of the city this Christmas, as doors close on beloved attractions. The Aga Khan Museum, the immersive Arcadia Earth, and the Art Gallery of Ontario will all observe the holiday, offering a moment of quiet reflection. Even the vibrant Distillery Winter Village and the hallowed halls of the Hockey Hall of Fame will be still on December 25th.
For those seeking a festive escape, however, some iconic landmarks will remain beacons of light. The CN Tower will pierce the winter sky, offering breathtaking views, while Ripley’s Aquarium will unveil the mysteries of the deep. Casa Loma’s majestic castle and the Toronto Zoo’s animal kingdom will also welcome visitors throughout the holiday season.
Don’t lace up your skates just yet – the city’s outdoor ice rinks, including the beloved Nathan Phillips Square, will be open for gliding and laughter. And for those craving the silver screen, most major movie theatres will continue to show the latest blockbusters, providing a warm retreat from the cold.
Planning a Boxing Day celebration? Be aware that while many establishments will be closed on Christmas Day, select LCBO and Beer Stores will cautiously reopen with limited hours on December 26th. It’s a chance to restock for continued festivities, but planning ahead is key.
Grocery shopping will require a bit of foresight. Most supermarkets will close their doors on Christmas Day, but Rabba Fine Foods and Summerhill Market will offer limited service for those last-minute needs. Boxing Day will see most grocery stores reopen, though again, with reduced hours.
The bustling energy of the city’s malls will temporarily subside. The vast majority will remain closed on Christmas Day, awaiting the influx of Boxing Day shoppers eager to take advantage of post-holiday sales. December 26th will mark their grand reopening.
Navigating the city will be possible, though with adjustments. Both GO Transit and the TTC will operate on their holiday schedules, ensuring that residents and visitors can move around, albeit with potentially longer wait times. Careful planning is advised for those relying on public transportation.
