Fairmont Royal York | createdbyrcw

Before being pre-empted by my Christmas eve wanderings, the plan had been to wander the downtown core on Christmas evening (Dec 25th, to avoid confusion).

: Perhaps a tenth of the sparrows peeping in a neighbour’s shrub

: Candy floss skies paint the horizon downtown

: The Peace Tower of Old City Hall shines orange in the sunset

: The illuminated TORONTO sign went through a blue period

: Skaters have fun at Nathan Phillips Square under the gaze of Old City Hall

: Multicoloured lights illuminate the way for evening skaters

: Shedding a little light on the chocolate moose

: Toronto’s had a warm spell, but this is ridiculous

: Several banks reflected in the windows of another

: Lights descend like so many stars at BCE Place

: Old world class fronts the Royal York hotel near Union Station

: Looking north into the Entertainment District from the CN Tower

: A Christmas full moon shines over the Beaches boardwalk

As much as it pains many people I know, for the last four years, I have spent my Christmas dinner at a local hotel, The Fairmont Royal York in Toronto. The splendid buffet is held in the hotel’s Imperial Room, a small hall that once hosted musical legends (back in the day when you dressed up to go to a show).

For the first two years, I went with my wife Leela, whereas more recently, I have been sitting on my own (interestingly at the same table). That being said, when you’re surrounded by dozens of families, a troupe of carolers, a balloon artist and Santa Claus, are you truly alone?

The lesson I learned this year: Don’t watch people (adults as well as kids) use the chocolate fountain…you’re better off not knowing.