Top 6 in the 6ix: Can't miss Toronto events November 13 to November 19

Toronto, the holiday season officially kicks off this week.

For starters, the city’s most beloved Christmas market opens its doors this week and both Yonge-Dundas Square and Yorkville Village are hosting their annual tree lighting ceremonies.

So, get bundled up, grab a warm drink and check out one of the many festive events happening throughout the city.

See also

• The Gardiner Museum's beloved 12 Trees exhibit returns for the holidays
• Yonge-Dundas Square Christmas tree lighting ceremony takes place next week
• The Beaches boardwalk will be lit up with 80,000 lights again this year
• This Toronto snow globe is the most magical holiday window this year (PHOTOS)

Toronto Christmas Market

What: The city’s most beloved holiday tradition kicks off the holiday season this week! The Toronto Christmas Market will feature entertainment, beer gardens, vendors, and a whole lot of Christmas cheer. Get cozied up, and head down to the Distillery District to experience its magic.

When: November 16 to Sunday, December 23 (closed on Mondays)
Where: The Distillery District

Gourmet Food & Wine Expo

What: The Gourmet Food & Wine Expo is taking over Toronto this week. The four-day expo showcases international cuisine, exotic delicacies, craft beers, wines, and cutting-edge cocktails when it brings together over 100 exhibitors including some of the worlds best restaurants, food producers, brewers, vintners, and distillers showcasing 1,500 different things to eat and drink.

When: November 16 to 19
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 222 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto

Polar Express Train

What: This holiday season, you’re invited to embark on a magical holiday journey as you take a ride on the Polar Express. Operated by the Waterloo Central Railway, as soon as you step on board, you’ll be whisked away to the sounds of the beloved film’s motion soundtrack.

When: November 17 to December 23. Select times available, check the website for details.
Where: Waterloo Central Railway Train Museum Platform, 50 Isabella Street

Illuminite at Dundas Square

What: Now in its 10th year, Illuminite will take over Yonge- Dundas Square this weekend with its annual tree lighting ceremony. Each year, Illuminite features an incredible evening filled with dance performances, light shows, acrobats and of course, the ceremonial lighting of the square’s 40-foot tree which glows with more than 52,000 LED light

When: November 18, 5:30 pm to 7 pm
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square, 1 Dundas Street East

Holiday Magic

What: Toronto’s Yorkville Village will be transformed into a winter wonderland this weekend as the neighbourhood will be kicking off the season with its annual Holiday Magic celebration. Come and check out the lighting of village’s Christmas tree and enjoy a free performance from Canadian Juno Award singer Keshia Chante.

When: November 18, 5 pm to 6:30 pm, with events running through December
Where: Village of Yorkville Park, 115 Cumberland Street

Lady Craft Beer Fest

What: Lady Beer Fest is back! Presented by The Society of Beer Drinking Ladies, the festival will feature a line up of craft brewers along with fine food vendors along with a Holiday Makers’ Market. Tickets start at $35.

When: November 18
Where: Peace & Cotton Warehouse, 500 Keele Street, Unit 101, Toronto