The Best Things to Do on Christmas Day
Updated: Nov. 30, 2021Opening presents and sitting under the tree aren't the only things to do on Christmas. Here's a list of our favourite fun things to do on the big day.
Hit the Ice
Among the long list of things to do on Christmas Day is the popular winter pastime—skating! From Ottawa’s Rideau Canal to Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square, Christmas is the perfect time to lace up those skates and try out your fanciest skater moves. Triple salchow, anyone?
Check out the best outdoor rinks across Canada.
Go Hiking
Why not enjoy the great outdoors this holiday season? Throw on those hiking boots or sneakers and hit the trails to experience the beauty of nature this Christmas Day. What’s a better gift than relaxing in the great outdoors?
Marvel at the greatest hikes across Canada.
Enjoy a Netflix Marathon
Baby, it’s cold outside! Stock up on your favourite snack foods, stay in your pajamas and start up Netflix to binge-watch Gilmore Girls, Schitt’s Creek or Arrested Development.
Check out the best Christmas movies on Netflix Canada now.
Window Shop
Take a stroll and enjoy the stunning holiday window displays. Big city stores are known for their fabulous and whimsical Christmas displays and smaller town centres often have fun displays, too.
Chances are, there’s also a dazzling walk-through Christmas light display near you!
Snag Some Deals Online
Get a leg up on those incredible Boxing Day bargains by starting your shopping on December 25. Just make sure you follow these safe online shopping tips.
Hit Up a Christmas Market
After last year’s holiday celebrations were hampered by lockdown conditions across much of the country, Christmas markets are back in a big way. Take a peek at seven of the best Christmas markets across Canada.
Enjoy a Winter Wonderland
Add a festive trip to the ski slopes to your list of things to do on Christmas Day. Throughout Canada, some mountains are open for some fun snowy activities like skiing, snowboarding and tubing. And you’ll likely have your choice of slopes! Just make sure you purchase tickets online ahead of time, if necessary.
Need a playlist for your day on the slopes? Here are the best Christmas songs—ranked.
Craft a Cocktail at Home
Even if you don’t have a local pub or an upscale hotel bar just down the street, who says you can’t bartend at home? Festive suggestions include a champagne cocktail, a hot toddy, or a hot buttered rum. (Psst—this is the proper way to serve a Baileys and coffee!)
Treat Yourself to Brunch
The only thing better than sleeping in on Christmas Day? Waking up to a delicious brunch spread! No trip to the store required—just dig into last night’s leftovers. Now that’s a real holiday treat.
Here are 30 small-scale Christmas dinner recipes to try this year.
Cruise Through Christmas Lights
Too cold for a walk? You can still enjoy the spirit of the season from the comfort of your own car—check out these drive-through Christmas light displays across Canada!
