tree lighting yorkville

There's a free outdoor concert and tree lighting ceremony in Toronto this weekend

There's a free Christmas spectacle with a concert and tree lighting ceremony in Yorkville this weekend. The annual Holiday Magic returns to Toronto on Saturday, Nov. 23, with some local stars headlining the festivites.

You can expect to see Juno-award winning pop star Rêve, along with American Idol finalist Nicolina Bozzo, who are coming together for a free outdoor concert.

The Canadian Talent 

For those who are not aware of what the award-winning songstress Rêve has to offer, you should definitely give her debut album, Saturn Return, a listen, specifically the bop that is "Contemporary Love."

Borrowing elements from club divas before her like Madonna and Kylie Minogue, her latest project will definitely have the crowd grooving in the cold. 

The Montreal-born artist first gained traction when her single "Ctrl + Alt +Del" reached the top 40 on the Canadian Hot 100 chart in 2021. A year later, she followed up with another top 40 entry with her dance track "Whitney," the lead single for her first studio album.

Shortly after the release of the project, the up-and-coming singer clinched three nominations at the 2023 Juno Awards, ultimately walking away with "Dance Recording of the Year."

However, Rêve won’t be the only performer taking up the stage that night in Yorkville. 

Toronto-born American Idol contestant Nicolina Bozzo will also be taking to the floor to perform a series of songs for the holiday event.

The singer, one of only three Canadians to ever be featured on the show, competed on the 20th edition of the singing franchise. The fan favorite reached the top 5 with her soaring voice, becoming the only Canadian resident in the show’s history to become a finalist. 

Since her time on the show, the performer goes solely by her first name, and released a single earlier this year titled "Situations." She's also performed a string of shows right here in the city.  

The Holiday Spirit 

Now it wouldn’t be a proper Christmas celebration without the act of giving back, which is where Second Harvest comes in. A designated "Second Harvest Tent" will be on-site if you're feeling extra giving.

Like the years before, you can expect the return of the Victorian-era carolers strolling through the festivities, as well the anticipated "Flick the Switch" Lighting Ceremony, which will completely transform the area into Yorkville's Christmas era.

Tree lighting time

The official lighting ceremony and concert will take place on Cumberland Street in Yorkville on the evening of Nov. 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The lighting fixtures and the giant, festive tree will remain until Dec. 31. 

Lead photo by

Bloor Yorkville BIA


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