Toronto is a fabulous city in any season, but it has an extra bit of magic during the holidays. The city offers so much to see and do to get you in the holiday spirit. Whether you want to shop, see a holiday show, or just take in all the festive decorations, you will find it all in Toronto.

Have you ever dreamed of visiting those charming Christmas markets in Europe but just haven’t managed to get there? Each year, Toronto’s Historic Distillery District is transformed into an Old-Worldstyle outdoor Christmas market, complete with vendor stalls, beer gardens, entertainment, lots of food, and twinkling lights. The Victorianera buildings and cobblestone streets will make you feel like you have been transported to the great Chriskindlmarkts of Europe, just a short drive from home.

The Toronto Christmas Market, open daily except Mondays through Dec. 23, offers themed musical entertainment each day of the week in addition to its festive holiday atmosphere. Listen to classical, jazz, pop and world music at the main stage, next to the massive, beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Each day, there are Santa’s Elves sing-alongs and traditional carolers in red capes strolling the market streets.

The music adds to the cheerful noise of a crowd humming with anticipation of the season. Shoppers browse the vendor stalls, looking for the perfect traditional ornaments, creative, handcrafted chocolates or woolen scarves and hats. There are delicious treats at every turn. The raclette (a roasted, melty cheese) served over rosemary roasted baby potatoes is a visitor favorite, along with schnitzel, gourmet grilled cheese and, of course, poutine, just to name a few of the mouth-watering food options. Be sure to stop and treat yourself to some glühwein (mulled wine) or a hot toddy, which should put a glow in your cheeks on a cold December afternoon.

Nathan Phillips Square is another must-see on your holiday adventure in Toronto. You can ice skate with the iconic illuminated Toronto sign lighting up the ice and visit its Holiday Fair, also through Dec. 23. Vendor stalls for holiday shopping, a modern ice bar, carnival rides and games for the kids, and a roaring firepit to sit beside with a warm drink are all part of the holiday festivities in the square.

Christmas markets are not all that Toronto has to offer. The city’s theaters join in the holiday spirit this year with performances of “A Christmas Carol,” “It’s A Wonderful Life,” and “The Nutcracker” ballet. The spectacular holiday windows at Hudson’s Bay and Saks Fifth Avenue (at Yonge Street and Queen Street West) are also a time-honored tradition with animated scenes that delight visitors year after year.

Whether you want to spend a couple of days finding your holiday spirit or just take a quick day trip, Toronto is packed with options for a festive holiday adventure.