At the end of every year, Vaughan transforms into a twinkling wonderland. Across the city, trees sparkle, porches glow and families bundle up to celebrate the start of the holiday season. Whether you love the excitement of a big tree-lighting countdown or prefer a quiet stroll through a glowing village street, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic this year.

Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss light-up events happening throughout Vaughan in 2025, along with a few suggestions for where to warm up afterward.

Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 · 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Vaughan City Hall Courtyard, 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.

An annual favourite, Vaughan’s Tree Lighting Ceremony brings residents together for a night of carols, crafts and the dramatic countdown that lights up the City’s grand tree. Gather around as the massive evergreen comes to life with thousands of sparkling lights. The lights remain on nightly throughout the holidays, so you can return anytime for photos or a relaxed walk through the glowing courtyard. Come early to enjoy pre-event entertainment and stay late to soak in the atmosphere.

Where to warm up:
Celebrate afterward at Farro Ristorante (2316 Major Mackenzie Dr. W.) for elegant Italian fare and a cozy glass of wine or grab a cappuccino and pastry at Mr. Puffs Vaughan (1440 Major Mackenzioe Dr. W.) – their warm, honey-drenched dough bites are a festive favourite.

Date:  Wednesday, Dec. 17 and Thursday, Dec. 18
Location: Vaughan City Hall, 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr. and Garnet A. Williams Community Centre, 501 Clark Ave. W.

The City of Vaughan’s annual Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration are beautiful celebrations of community, culture and light. Families and neighbours gather to mark the beginning of Chanukah with music, blessings, and the glowing menorah at Vaughan City Hall. Expect official remarks from Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council, a DJ, a balloon artist and other family-friendly activities.

Where to warm up:
After the ceremony, enjoy dinner at Drunch Kitchen & Wine Bar (9200 Bathurst St. D6), known for its cozy winter menu and craft wine list. Or try Keyf’i Istanbul (1200 Highway 7, 1) for hearty Mediterranean comfort dishes and steaming Turkish tea, a perfect warm finish to a chilly evening outdoors.

Dates: Until Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 (select nights)
Location: Canada’s Wonderland, 1 Canada’s Wonderland Dr.

Every year, Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a sparkling holiday theme park for WinterFest. Millions of lights, towering Christmas trees, live shows, ice skating and festive treats turn the park into a true winter fantasyland. It’s one of the Greater Toronto Area’s most spectacular seasonal events and is worth a full evening visit.

Insider tip: Go on a weekday if you can — the lights shine just as bright, but the crowds are lighter.

Where to warm up:
After your visit, head just a few minutes down Rutherford Rd. to Enoteca Motorino (4101 Rutherford Rd.) for wood-fired pizza and cozy Italian comfort food or stop at nearby Grazie Ristorante (9100 Jane St.) for hearty pasta, warm bread, and a celebratory espresso.

Location: SmartVMC, 100 New Park Place, illuminated daily through the holiday season, from around 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.

In the heart of Vaughan’s downtown core, the SmartVMC Walk-Through Tree delivers an unforgettable light experience. Towering more than 30 metres high and wrapped in nearly 70,000 LEDs, this is Canada’s tallest walk-through LED Christmas tree — and yes, you can actually walk through it. The result is pure holiday magic and a perfect (and free) photo stop that pairs beautifully with a stroll through the glowing plaza.

Where to warm up:
After your photos, unwind at Smoke and Mirrors Gastropub (2780 Highway 7, 105), a relaxed lounge-style restaurant offering elevated pub dishes and winter cocktails, or opt for aromatic Indian comfort food at Kasoori Indian Restaurant & Bar (9600 Islington Ave. E., 2E), both just a short drive from the VMC and open late.

Date: Sunday, Dec 7 · 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: Main Street, Kleinburg

For a storybook start to the season, make your way to Kleinburg Village. The streets of this charming heritage village come alive with lights, carols and old-fashioned Christmas cheer. The annual tree-lighting event features local performances, holiday treats, and the cozy atmosphere that makes this one of Vaughan’s most beloved spots during the holidays.

Where to warm up:
Stay in the village and enjoy rustic Italian dishes at La Baracca (10503 Islington Ave.), or for an elevated evening, The Bistro at Copper Creek (11191 Highway 27) golf course offers elegant comfort food and panoramic views just a short drive away.

Dates: Saturday, Nov 29 and Sunday, Nov 30
Location: Intersection of Woodbridge Avenue and Market Lane

Take a step back in time and experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas all weekend long at the annual Christmas in the Village. The historic streets of Woodbridge come alive with lights, music and seasonal cheer as the neighbourhood transforms into a festive outdoor market. Stroll past glowing storefronts, enjoy live entertainment, and shop local artisans, all while surrounded by the warm sparkle of thousands of twinkling lights.

Where to warm up:
After strolling the lights, settle in at Essence Bistro (140 Woodbridge Ave., 2) for comforting seasonal dishes and an excellent cappuccino, or make it a full night out with dinner and cocktails at Earls Kitchen + Bar (40 Colossus Dr.),  both nearby and open late.

Bundle up, grab your favourite holiday drink, and explore Vaughan’s brightest nights of the year. Whether you choose the grand tree-lighting at Vaughan City Hall, the magical glow of Wonderland, or the small-town charm of Kleinburg, each event brings its own sparkle to the season.

Keep checking VisitVaughan.ca for event updates and newly announced lighting dates — because in Vaughan, the holidays are always worth the drive.

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!