Shop, skate and be merry

Don’t let the colder weather deter you — there’s far too much happening around the city to stay inside. Ethan Rotberg warms up with a festive drink and offers up six happenings around town

Toronto Santa Claus Parade

The Santa Claus Parade will be a broadcast-only event again this year — but that won’t make it any less magical. On Dec. 4, starting at 7 p.m. on CTV and CTV2, tune in to watch dozens of floats, marching bands, celebrity clowns and special performances from the likes of Ed Sheeran, Carrie Underwood and Tyler Shaw featuring the Tenors.

Union Holiday skating rink

Pack your bags — Union Station is once again hosting the largest outdoor skating rink in the city. As part of Union Holiday,skaters of all levels can visit the outdoor experience in the heart of downtown. There are even free skate and helmet rentals, provided on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

Buffy Sainte-Marie at Massey Hall

Since her groundbreaking debut “It’s My Way!” in 1964, Buffy SainteMarie has been a force — as an advocate, educator, artist and more. On Nov. 30, the Cree singer-songwriter, joined by Toronto rock and rollers the Sadies, will take Massey Hall’s newly renovated stage. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Home Alone in Concert

For some, watching Macaulay Culkin outwit thieves in “Home Alone” is as much a Christmas tradition as decorating the tree. Now you can take this holiday custom to the next level with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, as it performs the movie’s score live to picture. “Home Alone in Concert” takes place at Roy Thomson Hall, Dec. 3 and 4.

The Thirsty Elf

The Fairmont Royal York has brought back its Christmas-themed bar, the Thirsty Elf, open now until Dec. 18. Visitors — ugly Christmas sweaters are encouraged — can sip on festive cocktails and enjoy the holiday ambience. There’s even an outdoor heated patio. Book your one-hour reservation on OpenTable.

Window Wonderland

Returning to the Junction for its second consecutive year is Window Wonderland. The neighbourhood is being transformed into an interactive outdoor public art gallery, featuring augmented reality installations by 40 local and international artists on storefront windows. Point your phone at the artwork and watch it come to life.