SKATING
There's no question that during the holidays we all over indulge on treats, snacks, nibbles, appetizers and desserts. If you're feeling a little heavy in your boots, why not take them off and don a pair of skates instead to burn off those extra cals. The Harbourfront Centre and many of the City's outdoor ice rinks are open every day for free public skating. Whether you've never laced up before or you're such a pro you can pirouette with the best of them, skating is always good for a bout of fun. Check out our list of some ofthe best ice pads in the city.

TOBOGGANING
Nothing gets the blood flowing better on a chilly night than an adrenaline-filled dash down a hill on your tush. As long as you don't get embarrassed easily by wipeouts or screaming like a 5-year old girl, tobogganing is a thrill-filled winter activity for people of all ages. What's great is that with so many sledding hills around the city, you can match your skill level with the decline - now you really have no excuse to dig out your snow pants. High Park is known for its infamous hills but for others around the city (check out the link in the title).

HOLIDAY LIGHTS
As a kid it was always such a treat to pile into dad's car after Christmas Eve dinner and criss-cross through the neighbourhood at snail-speed admiring (or gawking) at all the Christmas lights. Some were tasteful and others, well not so much. Whether you prefer to view them in an urban setting like Nathan Philips Square or troll through residential streets, there is nothing like seeing the reflection of sparkling lights in your friend's eyes as they gaze in amazement at how you found such illuminated glory.

HOT CHOCOLATE
Nothing says wintertime better than a steaming and smooth mug of hot chocolate. Perhaps not necessarily an activity per se but if you attack it as one, by dedicating yourself to finding your favourite hot chocolate in the city, then it may just count. Read on for blogTO's recommendations on the crème de la crème. Spicy, white, dark or organic, there's something to tantalize everyone's tastebuds.

MOVIES and CHINESE FOOD
A Jewish tradition in Toronto (and elsewhere), taking in a movie and eating some Chinese food became a popular activity based on the fact these used to be about all there was to do when the city shutdown after 6pm on the 24th. And even to this day that hasn't changed a whole lot. So, check out ourmovie listingsfor what to see and our post on thebest Chinese restaurantsfor where to eat (just make sure to call ahead!).

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Photo bythru the nightin the blogTO Flickr pool.