It’s that magical time of year again! Get into the merry mood with festive entertainment, holiday carollers, sparkling lights, hot cider and mulled wine as you knock off your shopping list with one-of-a-kind gifts and homemade treats. The jolly man himself may even make an appearance at some of these events.
Photo credit: Kingston Holiday Market
Kingston Holiday Market
November 1 – December 22 (weekends)
Your holiday shopping just got a lot more fun with this charming weekend market showcasing local, independent artists and artisans.
Afro-Caribbean Vegan Holiday Market
November 10, Toronto
Check out Afro-Caribbean art, plant-based vegan food, health and beauty products and services at this one-day, wheelchair accessible event in Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village.
Toronto Christmas Market
November 14 – December 22
The combination of heritage buildings, cobblestone laneways and festival decorations in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District makes this an Instagrammer’s paradise. And back again this year is the daily stage entertainment that revelers can enjoy with a hot cocoa while snapping that perfect holiday pic and snagging that perfect holiday gift.
Photo credit: Village Noel Temiskaming
Village Noel Temiskaming
November 21 – 23, New Liskeard
Travel back in time to experience the ambiance and joie de vivre of a New France village during Christmastime. Join artisans, craftspeople, musicians, dancers, lumberjacks and historical personalities at this lively Northern Ontario event.
Cranberry Christmas Market
November 23, Mississauga
Find unique handcrafted goods and gifts, from seasonal decorations to artisan crafts, hand-made beauty products to hand-knit throws and so much more. To top it off, you’ll be supporting the Compass Food Bank with pay-what-you-can or a non-perishable food item donation for entry.
Photo credit: Cedar Ridge Studio Gallery
Cedar Ridge Studio Gallery Marketplace
November 17, Scarborough
Every holiday season the gallery transforms the majestic mansion in Toronto’s east end into a festive marketplace, showcasing one-of-a-kind arts and crafts from local artists and artisans. Come for unique finds and stay for afternoon tea and live entertainment.
Veg Holiday Market
November 24, Toronto
This third annual event takes place at the Artscape Wychwood Barns and is hosted by the Toronto Vegetarian Association. Shop for unique gifts in the fully vegan market, attend workshops, enjoy a delicious treat or two, and enjoy a relaxing fireside chat while seasonal music plays in the background. Admission is only $5 and kids 10 and under are free. Tickets are available now.
One Of A Kind Winter Show
November 21 – December 1, Toronto
This annual event has become a tradition for locals and visitors from near and far alike. Meet the makers of hand-crafted apparel, jewellery and art. Enter cool contests. Then grab a tasty treat and take a load off in a One Of A Kind Lounge.
Photo credit: Canadian Museum of History
The Museum’s Christmas Market
November 28 – December 1, Ottawa
Head to the Grand Hall of the Canadian Museum of History for this not-to-miss seasonal event. Enjoy gourmet food and peruse stalls selling unique, hand-made decorations, woodcraft, glass items, jewelry and more.
XMUS Festival
December 7, Bracebridge
Get into the festive spirit at Muskoka’s favourite holiday market event that includes the Bracebridge Santa Claus Parade and an ugly sweater party. XMUS moves to a new location for 2019 – Canvas Brewing Co. – a perfect setting to enjoy the craft beer, wine, spirits, gourmet food and live music that make this a must-do on the holiday market circuit.
Fair in the Square
December 7-23, Toronto
Returning for another year to Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square, this free European-style event comes complete with tasty local fare, an ice-skating rink, an artisan village and the licensed Jackson Triggs Polar Point ice bar where you can cozy up to a crackling fire and a cup of mulled wine or hot apple cider. Visit with Santa, take in the Holiday Midway and enjoy an eclectic mix of performers sure to keep the vibe festive.
Photo credit: Ottawa Farmers’ Market
Ottawa Farmers’ Market Christmas Market
November 29 – December 22 (select dates)
Over 100 vendors at the Aberdeen Pavilion in Ottawa’s Lansdowne Park offer a selection of great ideas for stocking stuffers and host gifts as well as a lot to nosh on while you shop.
Christkindl Market
December 5 – 8, Kitchener
Canada’s original Christkindl Market, this event at Kitchener City Hall harks back to a bustling medieval German market and has been named one of Ontario’s ‘Top 100’ festivals and events. Sample Glühwein (mulled wine), watch blacksmith demonstrations and take selfies with the various folklore characters milling about.
Photo credit: Hochelaga Inn
Kingston Outdoor Christmas Market
December 7 – 8
The historic Hochelaga Inn turns into a Christmas fairy tale the whole family will enjoy. Inspired by European outdoor markets, the event features local makers, live entertainment, food, drink, lights, carollers, of course, an appearance by Santa himself.
Be sure to check out the Ontario events calendar for even more seasonal celebrations throughout the province. Happy Holidays!