7 free things to do in Toronto this November that are actually fun

From Taylor Swift experiences to Christmas-themed events.

A float at a Santa Claus parade. Right: A person walking through a Christmas market.

The Toronto Santa Claus Parade. Right: The Distillery Winter Village.

Lead Writer, Travel

With the Christmas season on the way, November can be an expensive time of year. If you're looking to save some money while still having some fun, you'll want to check out some of these free things to do in Toronto this month.

There are tons of holiday events taking place throughout the city, as well as some Taylor Swift-themed experiences and more.

Here are seven free things to do in Toronto this November so you can save some cash.

Santa Claus Parade

Price: Free

When: November 24, 2024, 12:30 p.m.

Address: Starts at Christie St. and Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Celebrate the Christmas season with the annual Santa Claus Parade. The event will feature "amazing floats, bands, marchers, the Celebrity Clowns and of course, Mrs. Claus and Santa."

Santa Claus Parade Website

The Distillery Winter Village

Price: Free to $39.50 per adult

When: November 13, 2024 to January 5, 2025

Address: 51 Gristmill Lane, Toronto, ON

Why you need to go: The Distillery Winter Village is one of the most iconic events of the season and it's complete with dazzling decor, festive treats and more.

Admission is free during select times, so be sure to plan ahead.

Distillery Winter Village Website

Holiday Magic

Price: Free

When: November 23 to December 31, 2024

Address: Bloor-Yorkville, Toronto, ON

Why you need to go: Bloor-Yorkville will look like a magical Christmas town with glittering decor and cozy shops. You can enjoy a free concert, carollers and more throughout the season.

Bloor-Yorkville Website

Toronto (Taylor's Version)

Price: Free

When: Until November 29, 2024

Address: Throughout Toronto

Why You Need To Go: Are you ready for it? This Taylor Swift scavenger hunt and contest will take you on a "journey through Toronto that feels like it’s straight out of a Taylor Swift songbook."

The hunt features 13 "iconic" destinations across the city and you'll have to solve clues inspired by T Swift songs.

Destination Toronto Website

Holiday Hills

Price: Free admission

When: November 15 to December 29, 2024, closed on Mondays

Address: 28 Bathurst St., Toronto, ON

Why you need to go: Get in the Christmas spirit at this spot! STACKT is bringing back Holiday Hills and you can enjoy free admission, dazzling decor, festive treats and all sorts of Yuletide magic.

STACKT Website

CPKC Holiday Train

Price: Free, donations accepted

When: November 29, 2024, 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Address: 750 Runnymede Rd., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: The CPKC Holiday Train is jingling its way into the city and you can soak up some Christmas cheer while watching a free concert.

CPKC Website

The Royal Ontario Museum

Price: Free

When: November 19, 2024, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Address: 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: On the third Tuesday of every month, the ROM offers free evening admission. You can explore exhibits and galleries without spending a dime.

ROM Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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