Phil Raby " />

Children press against the glass at The Bay on Queen Street for a glimpse at animated characters from the new Disney film Narnia. -- Photo by Phil Raby

Looking for some holiday cheer this December, but not quite sure where to find affordable family fun? Toronto delivers the goods in the "Seasons Greetings" department by offering some fantastic events, many of which are free.

Lions and Witches and Centaurs, oh my!

The upcoming Disney film, The Chronicles of Narnia: the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, based on the famous children's book by C.S. Lewis, will be opening in theatres soon, but fans of the beloved literary classic can get a sneak peak of the movie at The Bay store, located on Queen Street in downtown Toronto.

This is window shopping gone wild as spectacular animated displays depict scenes from the story in streetfront windows which usually exhibit clothing instead of miniature centaurs or lions. The lifelike figures from the fantastic world of Narnia are modeled out of clay in exacting detail, much to the delight of children and adults who can be seen pressing their noses against the windows.

Light up your life

Just across from the Bay sits Nathan Philips Square, the place that hosts the Cavalcade of Lights festival every holiday season.

The square, which is also home to Toronto's municipal government, lights up with thousands of multi-coloured lights and a huge 45-foot Christmas tree every December. This year is no different, but along with the dazzling illumination comes a spectacular firework production running at 7:00 pm, December 10th and 17th.

After the show, visitors can strap on the skates and take a spin on the square's famous ice rink, which rocks to the mixing of popular DJs. For those who don't skate, there are plenty of benches to sit on and enjoy the light show while chowing down on the abundant and excellent concession food.

The Cavalcade of Lights festival goes on the road as well with several Toronto neighborhoods participating in the festivities. This year, the brilliant light displays, which include everything from 10-foot illuminated angels to modern interpretations of a Christmas tree, can be seen in 14 different areas of the city.

The best way to experience it all is by hopping on the Cavalcade of Lights bus tour. Along with getting off the bus to explore the fantastic creations, riders can do some shopping and experience great dining in the participating neighborhoods, each with its own distinct flavour.

A Winter Wonderland

For indoor and outdoor holiday fun, there's Holiday Dreams at Ontario Place. Running until January 8, 2006, it's a great event with a variety of activities to keep everyone in the family happy.

Santa vs. the Snowman may sound like a WWE match, but it's actually the name of a new animated Christmas movie families can watch at the Cinesphere, which is included in the price of admission. Although a little intense for the preschool crowd, the movie is action-packed and a lot of fun, especially when it can be viewed on Toronto's largest film screen.

The Winterfest Theatre presents Doo Doo's Magical Party and Rollicking Richard Sullivan, both live performances with (be warned) a lot of audience participation.

The giant 45-foot Christmas tree lights up Nathan Philips Square. -- Photo by Phil Raby

Also indoors, there are a slew of video games at the Chill Zone Arcade and the Mission to Mars simulator ride.

The fun continues outside amongst the bright lights. The Igzoo Petting Zoo has goats, llamas and a very friendly donkey all waiting to be petted. As well, there's a horse-drawn wagon ride, a skating rink (with skate rentals on premises) and rockin' St. Nick at the Santa Rocks outdoor show.

For more information:

Cavalcade of Lights : www.toronto.ca

Holiday Dreams : www.holidaydreams.ca

Travel writer A.P. Rodrigues can be contacted through R + R Creative

Three-year-old Madison feeds a donkey at the Igzoo Petting Zoo, part of Holiday Dreams at Ontario Place. -- Photo by Phil Raby