As the festive season arrives, Toronto residents and visitors need to plan ahead for altered schedules on major holidays. Knowing what services and attractions are available can make the difference between a smooth celebration and a frustrating outing.
This guide outlines the operating hours for key destinations and services across the city for both Christmas Day, December 25, and Boxing Day, December 26, 2025.
Attractions and Entertainment
Most of Toronto's popular cultural sites and family attractions will observe a closure on Christmas Day. Institutions like the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), and the Aga Khan Museum will be shut for the holiday. The festive Distillery Winter Village and Winterfest at Canada's Wonderland will also be closed, with Canada's Wonderland and the Hockey Hall of Fame shutting their doors on Christmas Eve as well.
However, the city won't be completely still. Several major landmarks promise daily holiday operation. The CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, Casa Loma, and the Toronto Zoo will welcome guests every day throughout the holiday period. For those seeking active fun, outdoor ice rinks and skating trails, including the iconic Nathan Phillips Square, will be open. Additionally, most major movie theatre chains will run screenings on both days.
Shopping, Liquor, and Essential Services
Shoppers and those stocking up for gatherings should take note of retail hours. The vast majority of shopping malls across Toronto will be closed on Christmas Day, reopening for Boxing Day sales on December 26.
For groceries, while most major supermarket chains will be closed on the 25th, some convenience-focused stores like Rabba Fine Foods and Summerhill Market will open with select, reduced hours. On Boxing Day, most grocery locations are expected to open, but again with limited hours; checking directly with your local store is advised.
Essential services will see widespread closures. Banks, Canada Post offices, and all Toronto Public Library branches will be closed on both Christmas and Boxing Day. All LCBO and The Beer Store locations will be closed on Christmas Day. On Boxing Day, a select number of LCBO and Beer Store outlets will reopen, operating at reduced hours.
Getting Around Toronto
Public transit will continue to run but on modified schedules. Both GO Transit and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will operate on their special holiday service schedules for both December 25 and 26. Travelers should plan for potentially less frequent service and check the specific schedules for their routes in advance.
By planning ahead with this information, Torontonians can ensure their holiday season is filled with joy and convenience, whether they're visiting a landmark, hitting the Boxing Day sales, or simply enjoying a skate under the open sky.
