Top 6 in the 6ix: Can't miss Toronto events, December 17 to 23

We’re in the final stretch before the chaos of the holidays truly sets in.

Before it’s time to spend all your free time attending family holiday events, grab a friend and check out one of the many awesome events happening in the city this week.

From live music to an epic winter solstice party in Kensington Market, here are the top events happening in the city this week from December 17 to 23.

Mumford & Sons Delta Tour

What: After announcing the release date for their long-awaited forthcoming album, Delta, last month, Mumford & Sons have now mapped the dates and locations of their new world tour. The massive global trek will start in the UK in November before a short run in North America in December, which includes a stop at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena this week.

When: December 18
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Scotiabank Arena, 40 Bay Street
Price: From $82

29th annual Kensington Market Winter Solstice

What: Celebrate the return to warmth and light in the heart of Kensington Market over the Winter Solstice. Support local merchants and unique culture of Toronto’s beloved neighbourhood over the holidays!

When: December 21
Time: 6:30 pm to 10 pm
Where: Kensington Market, Augusta Avenue and Oxford Street
Price: FREE to attend

Opening weekend at The Bentway

What: The Bentway’s unique figure-eight skate trail opens for its second season this weekend, just in time for the holidays! Once again, skate rentals and skating lessons will be offered, in addition to “curated” food and beverage options on select dates, and an expanded winter village full of snuggly blankets, warming lounges and fire pits.

When: December 21 to 23
Time: 12 pm to 9 pm
Where: Below the Gardiner Expressway at 250 Fort York Blvd
Price: Free

Toronto Etsy Christmas Market

What: If you’re looking to give more one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season, you’ll find them at the fifth annual Etsy Christmas Market. Hosted by the Toronto Etsy street team, this festive marketplace will feature awesome handmade, vintage, and delicious wares all made by the team members.

When: December 22
Time: 11 am to 5:30 pm
Where: Church of St. Stephen in-the-Fields, 365 College Street
Price: Admission is free

The Nutcracker

What: This weekend, Torontonians can see an unforgettable production of The Nutcracker featuring ballerina powerhouses Anastasia Stashkevich and Vyacheslav Lopatin, principal dancers of the world-renowned Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow.

When: December 22
Time: 2 pm and 7 pm
Where: Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, 1 Front Street East
Price: From $67 to $142

12 Beers of Christmas

What: The Gladstone Hotel knows how to holiday. Pals, a hallmark-Toronto venue, ugly Christmas sweaters and plenty of beer? Get your tickets quickly because this event is bound to be a blast.

When: December 22
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm
Where: Gladstone Hotel – 1214 Queen Street West
Price: $30 to $35

See also

• You can go on a New Year's Day hike at one of these provincial parks
• 28 spots to dine, drink and party on New Year's Eve in Toronto
• Michelle Obama is coming to Toronto this spring