With the wacky weather these days, it’s hard to know whether or not we’ll be having a white Christmas… However, what you can 100% count on are our incredible light displays to get you in the holiday spirit (even with a potential lack of snow). Towering and massive installations can be found in more than one spot in Ontario, so don’t fret, there is more than likely a winter wonderland close enough that you don’t need to travel far.
Here are the best places to see spectacular Christmas lights in Ontario this year.
Winter Festival of Lights
If you thought Niagara Falls was just a summertime destination, think again. Every year for the past 39 years the Ontario Power Generation has been lighting up Niagara with the Winter Festival of Lights. Featuring amazing lighting displays in the Niagara Parks, Dufferin Islands, and the surrounding tourist areas – this is Canada’s largest illumination festival! Entry to the event is free but donations can be made to support of the festival.
Christmas Panorama
Head to Wellington Park in Simcoe to see it get transformed into a winter wonderland. Take a stroll or jump on a horse-drawn trolley to see themed displays and thousands of lights starting on December 4 to January 2th, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. There’s no doubt you’ll enjoy the small-town hospitality and break from the bustle of the city.
Parliament Hill
Get yourself to Parliament Hill to catch the winter lightscapes multimedia show that’ll be projected onto Parliament Hill’s Centre Block from December 8th, 2021 until January 7, 2022. The 15-minute loop is inspired by Canada’s nature, climate, and culture. In addition to the multimedia show, head to nearby Confederation Park to experience the 34th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada on December 8 for the illumination ceremony for free Beavertails, too!
Toronto Winter Village
Toronto’s most famous Christmas market in the Distillery District is a touch different this year. It’s now called the Toronto Winter Village, but it still has some of the best light displays in the city! Framed by historic buildings, the village isn’t only stunning but also boasts some of the most unique and fun holiday shopping with vendors and yummy food. Stroll around sipping a hot chocolate while taking in all the lights, including the 50-foot Christmas tree.
Winter Wonderland
Take a short trip North just outside of Toronto to Newmarket to experience its Winter Wonderland without the hustle and bustle of the city. The festival is only on for a handful of days left which is December 17, 23, and 30! Along with spectacular lights, attendees can also enjoy free skating, free hot chocolate, photo ops, and even a DJ.
Upper Canada Village
Upper Canada Village’s Alight at Night festival is a true winter wonderland until January 1st. Bundle up for an evening stroll through this picture-perfect postcard setting. Over one million lights adorn the heritage buildings, trees, and fences of Upper Canada Village creating a one-of-a-kind magical backdrop for its annual Alight at Night Festival – a true winter wonderland!
Lakeside Festival of the Lights
Head to Spencer Smith Park in Burlington to see the 60 magical lighting displays that make up the Lakeside Festival of the Lights. This event starting November 26 until January 8, 2022 is so festive, that it even has its own mascot, Twinkle, a huge and happy red star. It’s free to attend and is sure to be fun for all ages.
Bingemans Gift of Lights
Unlike many of the other festivals, the Gift of Lights in Kitchener is experienced entirely from the comfort of your car. This drive-thru event, from November 13 until January 9, 2022, takes you through two light tunnels and hundreds of displays. The entry fee is $25 per car and for an enhanced experience you can tune into the Gift of Lights Radio 103.3 FM.
Festival of Northern Lights
The Festival of Northern Lights in Owen Sound is a combination of classic rope lighting and painted displays with some newer interactive technologies as well. The over 300 displays can be viewed from a walking tour or if you’re looking to up the romance factor you can take a horse-drawn wagon.
Casa Loma
Experience all the magic of Casa Loma this December from the 15th until January 1st, 2022. The gardens will be lit up with enchanting light displays and feature an outdoor market and performances by the Casa Loma Holiday Orchestra. Toronto’s reigning superstar, Drake, attended last year, and if it’s good enough for Drake it’s good enough for us.
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From the instantly recognizable beaver logo, to the classic salt and pepper speckled sweatpants, Roots has become the unofficial uniform of Canadians. The wilderness-inspired casual athleticwear pieces are perfect for lounging around the house, or staying cozy next to a campfire. We’re willing to bet that you have at least one item from Roots in your closet, and if you don’t are you sure you’re even Canadian? For anyone who is obsessed with shopping at Roots, these brands need to be on your radar the next time you shop!
Here are 10 brands to shop if you just can’t get enough of the Cozy and laidback style of Roots!
L.L. Bean
Launched over 100 years ago, L.L. Bean became popular from the sales of its Bean Boots, originally designed for hunters. Since the company’s launch over 100 years ago, the brand has grown to include clothing, footwear, outdoor equipment, and home goods. It’s effectively become a one stop shop for all your outdoor needs. L.L. Bean’s classic styles have stood the test of time and are a staple in outdoor wear. Now you can shop L.L. Bean at the retailer’s first Canadian location at Oakville Place! The store is filled with warm knits and soft flannels that will be perfect for fall apple picking or a brisk hike to see the changing colours of the leaves.
Abercrombie & Fitch
When you think of Abercrombie & Fitch, the brands preppy polos and denim jeans made popular in the early 2000s probably come to mind. Now the brand exudes effortless style that’s full of versatile, trendy, and relaxed pieces. Abercrombie & Fitch is definitely less outdoorsy than the other brands on this list but the brand focuses on creating casual and collegiate looks that are perf for everyday wear. A&F’s has a commitment to providing customers with lasting quality and exceptional comfort and that’s what really makes this brand stand out.
tentree
It’s no secret that the fashion industry is incredibly damaging to our earth, but tentree is on a mission to change that and is planning to become the most environmentally progressive brand on the planet. This ultra-sustainable brand serves fashion with a conscience, creating styles that will have you looking good and feel good. All items are made from sustainable materials like hemp, organic cotton, and recycled polyester — even the buttons are environmentally friendly, as they’re made from coconut shells instead of plastic! In addition, everything is manufactured in socially responsible factories, plus, the brand plants 10 trees for every item sold and has a goal of planting one billion trees by 2030!
Levi’s
While Levi’s is probably most known for its jeans and super cool denim, the brand actually has a wide range of other items and has recently expanded to include accessories as well. Levi’s has the same laidback, comfortable feel as Roots does and we love how the brand manages to maintain a hint of a vintage inspo, while still feeling perfectly up to date. The quality manufacturing creates timeless, classic items that are designed to outlast the stressors of day to day wear. Like the brand tagline says, these products are meant to be lived in – not just worn.
The North Face
The North Face has been known and loved by hardcore adventurers for years now, but don’t let that intimidate you as the brand is suitable for everyone. Designed to survive on a mountainside, these pieces are made with great technical quality. The jackets and fleeces are sure the keep you warm during the unpredictable fall weather all the way into the thick of winter. Also, in line with the mission to preserve the outdoors, The North Face has recently re-released its most popular styles now made with sustainable materials.
Lands’ End
For comfy and cozy wardrobe staples for men, women, and kids. Lands’ End apparel and outerwear is made using high-end materials that are designed to last.
Columbia
There’s a reason outdoor lovers are always sporting Columbia outerwear and apparel. If you love the timeless, outdoorsy styles of Roots, Columbia is a must-shop.
Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer has been producing designer outdoor wear for the past 100 years. For stylish pieces you’ll own for years to come, like Roots, this brand is a top pick.
Fjallenraven
Although they are known for their iconic backpacks, Fjallenraven designs a range of apparel and accessories that are perfect for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Always look on-point with flannels, parkas, vests, sweaters, pants, and many more styles that rival Roots’ own designs.
Patagonia
Patagonia is famous for its iconic fleece sweaters and zip-ups, vests, jackets, and stylish high-end outdoor gear. Although the brand is definitely a pricier alternative to Roots, you’ll have these pieces for years to come.
‘Tis the season for holiday parties, family get togethers, and NYE festivities. With different outings basically every other night it can be difficult to decide what to wear to each one. These celebrity outfits are the perfect style inspiration to inspire all your holiday looks.
Celine Dion
As much as we’d love to wear our most glam looks for the holidays without any worries, we can’t forget that it’s winter and we if we go outside in just our most sparkly mini dress we’ll freeze. Celine show us that fashion can be both glam and practical in this (hopefully faux) fur coat.
Shay Mitchell
Shay Mitchell was pregnant for most of the year, but she didn’t let that stop her from living her best fashion life (who ever said maternity wear had to be sweatpants and oversized t-shirts?). This chic overcoat and black satin dress are the perfect go-to combination for all those last minute invites you’re bound to receive this holiday season.
Olivia Culpo
Influencer/model/actress/former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo is constantly posting serious outfit inspo to her Instagram. Whether she’s walking a red carpet or jet setting across the globe, her outfit game is always on point. This sheer sparkly number just screams NYE to us.
Jennifer Lopez
It’s hard to believe that JLo is 50 years old – she still looks like that same Jenny from the Block. Her playful take on fashion keeps her feeling fresh and young. The silver flapper inspired dress she wore to the Met Ball is the perfect way to ring in the new decade.
Lizzo
This songstress’ message of self-love and empowerment has been the soundtrack to your daily pep talk, now take some fashion inspiration from her wardrobe. Lizzo’s outfits are every bit as bold and fabulous as she is. Make a statement this December with a metallic sheen or a fun feather accent.
Zendaya
Zendaya quickly made a name for herself as a fashion icon and we totally understand why. Her outfits somehow manage to be the perfect mix of cute, sexy, and sophisticated – which is exactly how we want to look in case we run into our ex at that friend-of-a-friend’s party.
Cardi B
Raps reigning queen knows how to rock a pant suit like no one else and we like it like that. (seriously is there anything Cardi can’t do?). This sophisticated vibe is perfect for your company holiday party or a fancy family dinner.
Ashley Graham
Another pregnant mama on this list, model Ashley Graham gives off serious party vibes in this gold mini dress she wore to the Met Ball after party. I don’t even have New Year’s Eve plans but I’m definitely going to make some just so I have an excuse to wear something this fierce.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Red and green can sometimes feel tacky during the holidays but if done right they don’t have to be limited to ugly Christmas sweaters. Priyanka stuns in this deep green dress, giving an effortlessly elegant feel. Pair your emerald style with a berry lip for an extra festive touch.
Harry Styles
Don’t worry men, we didn’t forget about you. The holidays are a great time for you to be a bit more playful with your style and no one does that better than Harry Styles. The British singer can make even the most outrageous of outfits look amazing. Take note from his closet of decked out suits and try a colourful printed blazer this holiday season.
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When the cold weather hits, it can be tempting to stay bundled up inside hibernating for the next four to six months (or however long it takes until we see the sun again). With snow on the ground and temperatures in the double negatives, the last thing on anyones mind is going on a date. But this year don’t let your love life catch the winter blues. These cheap and cozy winter dates will make you fall in love with the city you live in – and maybe even with that special someone you bring along with you.
Here are 8 fun and cheap winter dates to go on in Toronto!
Spend a Friday Night Live at the ROM
Until the end of November, the Royal Ontario Museum is hosting an art-filled Friday night bash. Discover the ROM like never before with food, drinks, and musical performances. Want to impress your date with your stunning art and history knowledge but can’t make it to the party? Not to worry, on the third Tuesday of every month admission to the museum is totally free!
Explore the Toronto Christmas Market
The annual Toronto Christmas Market is a must-see attraction in the months leading up to the holidays. If you haven’t been, then you definitely need to check it out and if you have then you know how magical it is. Stroll hand in hand with your date as you browse the vendors for unique gifts and tasty winter treats. With Christmas carollers singing in the background and Christmas lights giving off a romantic glow, it will feel like a scene from a Christmas movie. All the holiday fun starts on November 14 and admission is free Monday to Thursday, but will only cost you $8 on the weekend.
Go For A Skate at The Bentway
Skating is such a classic and fun winter activity – making it an obvious idea for a cute and casual date. For an under-the-radar spot, you and your date can avoid the crowds of tourists at Nathan Phillips Square and head to The Bentway to slip on your skates instead. This outdoor event space under the Gardiner Expressway opened last year and transforms in the winter into a winding skating trail.
Catch a Concert at the Danforth Music Hall
If you and your significant other are live music fans, then a concert might just be the perfect date for you guys. A show at iconic Toronto music venue, Danforth Music Hall is your chance to see an up-and-coming artist in a more intimate setting. Who knows, you might even get to see the next Drake or Shawn Mendes. For some pre-concert fuel, the venue just opened its own restaurant, the Danforth Sidebar.
Go for A Drink
Going for drinks is, understandably, the most common first date idea. It’s a low-pressure way to get to know someone in a casual environment, and the drinks help chase away any first date nerves. If you’re looking to switch it up a bit, we recommend going to a speciality bar this winter. After all, the best thing about winter is the excuse to drink all the warm drinks we were too sweaty to have in the summer. Her Father’s Cider Bar + Kitchen on Harbord has a selection of over 100 ciders to choose from, so you and your date can compete to find the best tasting one.
Watch a Movie at the Paradise Theatre
This historic Toronto theatre is reopening on December 6 after a major renovation just in time to host your winter movie dates. The theatre will show a mix of new films and older classics as well as a variety of live shows. The art deco building will add a vintage feel to your date, giving it much more character than just seeing the newest blockbuster at the movie theatre at your local mall.
Experience the Toronto Light Festival
From January to March, The Distillery District is being transformed into a visual experience put on by the Toronto Light Festival. This is the third year for the festival, so you know it’s going to be better than ever before. You and your date can check out all the colourful exhibits and admire the incredible light instillations.
Try Toronto’s Best Restaurants with Winterlicious
This yearly event is a food lover’s dream. Nearly 200 of Toronto’s best restaurants participated last year, offering three course, prix fixe menus at special prices. This is the perfect opportunity for you and your date to try out some of the best flavours our city has to offer. Winterlicious is back from January 31 until February 13 so mark your calendars!
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There are two types of people when it comes to Halloween: those who absolutely love the holiday and go all out with their costumes, and those who are just in it for the free candy. I tend to fall into the latter category, which means every time October 31st rolls around, I always find myself committed to Halloween plans but without a costume to wear. And with all of the potential costumes deciding what to dress up as can be hard. Do you go with something scary? A cute pop culture reference from the year? Maybe something classic like a ghost or a witch? These Halloween loving celebrities are sure to inspire you.
For DIY Inspiration Look, to Lauren Conrad
Lauren Conrad is the DIY Queen of Halloween. Year of year she delivers ultra-cute classic looks that provide easy to replicate costume inspiration. Lauren even shares a breakdown of her costumes on her website to help you recreate her look. These relatively low effort ideas are perfect for last minute costume ideas. Plus, now that she’s a mama, we get a double dose of Halloween cuteness with her and her son, Liam, and hopefully will with her new baby. My favourite of her costume choices includes her ultra chic Cruella de Vil costume.
For an Over-the-Top Costume, Look to Heidi Klum
Let’s be honest: no one does Halloween better than Heidi Klum. The former supermodel is a die-hard Halloween lover who goes all in and spends months and months preparing her costume. Each year Heidi totally transforms and becomes basically unrecognizable so it’s obvious why she’s the ultimate inspiration for all of your over the top looks. For one of her best looks she went in head-to-toe makeup to transform into an elderly lady.
For Couples Costume Ideas, Look to Beyoncé and Jay-Z
One of the perks of being in a relationship is that you can dress up in matching costumes for Halloween. Whether they’re paying homage to real people, or referencing pop culture, Bey and Jay always serve up the ultimate couple costume goals. This musical power couple has previously dressed up as Barbie and Ken, Biggie and Lil Kim, and Olympic gold medalists Florence Griffith Joyner and Tommie Smith.
For Group Costume Inspiration, Look to Neil Patrick Harris and Family
I thought deciding on one costume idea was difficult, but I can’t even imagine coming up with costumes for an entire family. Every year Neil Patrick Harris and his husband David Burtka coordinate themed costumes for themselves and their two children. This Halloween tradition has seen the famous family dress up as circus performers and famous Hollywood icons. If you don’t have kids, don’t worry because you can always replicate these costume ideas with your group of friends instead!
For Costume Ideas for Your Four-legged Friend, Look to Doug the Pug
We can’t forget about our furry little friends during the spooky season! Dressing up your fur baby in costumes is arguably even cuter than dressing up a baby in a costume. One of the most famous dogs, Doug the Pug, is constantly serving up look after look. He even makes a Georgie from IT costume look absolutely adorable.
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I think we can all agree that pumpkin has become the unofficial mascot for the autumn season. What was once just a cute fall activity has now become a phenomenon as pumpkins are no longer restricted to being picked from patches and turned into jack-o-lanterns for Halloween.
As soon as September and October hit, this staple fall vegetable can be found anywhere and everywhere. Thanks to the insane popularity of PSL‘s and pumpkin pie, you can now get basically anything in a pumpkin spice flavour. However, one area you might not expect to find pumpkin is in your beauty products.
It turns out that pumpkin is good for more than just pies, lattes, and jack-o-lanterns. This round and orange gourd is full of vitamins and antioxidants that, when used in beauty and skincare products, pumpkin can help deliver serious results.
Here are just a few of our favourite pumpkin beauty products!
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It’s officially cuffing season, the time of year when the weather gets colder and when we leave behind our wild and free-spirited ways of summer in favour of settling down and cuddling up with someone special. But deciding what to do on your date can be tough and going to the same old restaurant everytime gets boring. Whether it’s you’re going on your first date, your 10th date, or your 100th date, getting some fresh and new date ideas can never hurt.
Here are 5 super fun and cozy date ideas that are perfect for fall!
Go Apple Picking
Not only is apple picking one of the more classic fall activities, it’s also an easy and casual date idea. What could be more romantic than strolling through the apple orchards, holding hands with your significant other, while wearing matching cable knit sweaters? Take this date one step further by taking your freshly picked apples and turning them into a sweet baked good. After all, nothing is better than apple pie, especially when it’s made with a secret ingredient — love.
Rent a Cabin for a Cozy Weekend Getaway
Before the crazy holiday season starts with parties and gatherings, take some time for a cozy weekend getaway with bae at a cozy cabin in the woods. The time together away from the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day lives will allow you two to really connect and focus on each other on a deeper level. While you’re there, spend your time cuddled up on the couch, roasting s’mores over a bonfire, and drinking hot chocolate.
Go for a Hike
Get outdoors while you still can without having to pile on a million layers of clothing and take a romantic hike with your boo. The best thing about the autumn season is all the colours of the changing leaves on the trees. So, grab your date and hit the trails to soak in the fresh air and admire that gorgeous view with your date!
Head To The Museum
Fall is known for its chilly and rainy days, but don’t let the weather stop you from leaving the house. Head to one of Toronto’s many museums for a dose of culture and fun day out with your SO. Regardless of what you both are into, you’re bound to find a spot that peaks both of your interests.
Spend An Afternoon At The movies
It’s a known fact that boys have been using movies as an excuse to put their arm around the ladies for years. For days when it’s too nasty and cold to spend time outside, snuggle up with your boo at the movies. Make your date even more special by upgrading to VIP where you get a comfier chair, more room, and in-seat food and drink service!