Toronto Pearson's Holiday Magic Unveiled: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

This holiday season, Toronto Pearson Airport has undergone a stunning transformation, enchanting travellers with over two hundred wreaths and a myriad of captivating displays. Curious about the inspiration behind these awe-inspiring decorations, we sat down with Tanya MacCuspey, Manager of Passenger Programs and Experience and the curator behind the holiday magic at Toronto Pearson. 

It may surprise you to know, but the monumental task of transforming Toronto Pearson into a holiday marvel actually begins in March each year. Working in collaboration with marketing experiential design consultants and a dedicated team, the airport navigates through the intricate process of planning, designing, and installing the decorations. The effort involves meticulous space allocation, inventory management, and a series of approvals, culminating in a weeks-long transformation, timed strategically during periods of low passenger traffic. 

To ensure that Toronto Pearson’s decorations remain relevant, Tanya and her team strive for originality while keeping an eye on trends from social media and other airports. She and her team also draw inspiration from personal travel experiences and the dazzling window displays on Fifth Avenue (in New York) and Regent Street (in London).  

Tanya took the I Am Toronto Pearson team on a tour of some of her favourite displays, starting with the heart of the festive spectacle: a magnificent 27 ft Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights and festive ornaments, standing proudly in Terminal 1’s Departures Level. This visual feast welcomes passengers and sets the stage for a magical journey through the airport. 

One standout display, a favourite among passengers, is an LED-photo frame with golden lights sparkling bright in front of a green wall featuring iconic Toronto Pearson imagery. This unique exhibit not only captures the essence of holiday joy in Toronto, but also serves as a gathering point, where travellers can connect and share the magic of the season. 

Inspired by the success of that display, the airport has expanded its offerings, adding family friendly holiday movies to the Family Movie Lounge in T1 Domestic Departures with a creative twist. The photo frame outside the lounge allows everyone from passengers to airport workers and their teams to upload their photos into a FUJI sponsored printer and print for free a Toronto Pearson holiday card, wishing everyone a Happy Holidays while creating an interactive and memorable experience. 

This year, passengers can look forward to an exciting addition: a snow globe featuring the Toronto City skyline and a plane with Pearson branding. This interactive display, complete with LED lighting, promises a unique holiday experience for travellers passing through Terminal 1 Transborder. 

While the airport embraces modern LED displays and innovative decor, sustainability remains a key consideration. Many decorations, including the iconic trees, have been part of Pearson's holiday tradition for over a decade. Efforts are underway to gradually replace older elements with new, energy-efficient LED pieces. 

In addition to Toronto Pearson's commitment to creating a festive and joyful atmosphere – and in tandem with food & beverage and retail commercial experiences – the airport is orchestrating special events, including YYZ Live musical performances every Thursday and Friday in both T1 & T3; carolers and local choirs; Santa visits; free gift wrapping stations; family magic shows; special holiday performances at our YYKeyZ piano; and thousands of giveaways throughout December, creating memorable moments throughout the holidays.  

As the holiday season unfolds, Toronto Pearson stands as not just a transit hub, but also a destination in itself, where the magic of the holidays comes alive, creating lasting memories for all who pass through its gates.