It may not snow this Christmas, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get in the holiday spirit! This is the last weekend before the holidays — a daunting fact for those of us who have not finished their Christmas shopping. It also means it is the last weekend to enjoy the wonderful holiday markets available throughout the city of Toronto! Here are five of the most popular winter markets open this weekend. Enjoy!
Toronto Christmas Market
The Historic Distillery District- 35 Lower Jarvis St.
The Toronto Christmas Market is a long standing annual tradition in Toronto and features a variety of holiday events for people young and old. The market is free from Tuesday to Friday and costs $5 on weekends — the money goes to the food bank. Festive holiday music is sung daily by carollers and multicultural and several activities including carnival rides, photos with Santa, and walking tours through the Distillery district. Vendors will be selling Christmas ornaments and other festive items, including some unique foods. We highly suggest the hot chocolate from Maisonnette, or as they call it, “the drink of the Gods.” Don’t forget to stop at the beer garden when you tired of shopping, or try some mulled wine near the bonfire.
Crown Flora Holiday Market
1233 Queen St. W
The Crown Flora Holiday Market is an annual event in Parkdale, and will be hosted this year on Dec.19 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Local artisans in the neighbourhood will gather together and offer Torontonians a variety of gifts for the holidays. There will be over 60 different vendors selling hand-made goods like paper cards, ornaments, and delicious treats. The event promotes neighbourhood solidarity and opposition to rising rental prices in the area — in addition to celebrating the holidays of course. Gift ideas include wooden ornaments and bowls for plants as well as salted caramels. The best part, free admission!
Union Station Holiday Market
65 Front St. W.,
The Union Station Holiday Market is a pop-up that appears at this busy commuter station from Nov. 30 to Dec. 20. This market is great for people who have limited time to shop. On weekdays, it is open 7 a.m. until 7 p.m and is open on the weekends from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. There are a collection of vendors at this market including OCAD students selling art pieces. Bath products, holiday socks, retro sweaters, and jewelry are good options in addition to several other items.
Trinity Bellwoods Flea
824 Dundas St. W.
The Trinity Bellwoods Flea is a market that runs this weekend only, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A collection of 75 vendors and artisans (over two days) will come together to provide one-of-a-kind gift options. Admission is free and gift wrapping is also free if customers spend over $50. Scented candles, scarves and handmade jewelry are among some of the fantastic items you can pick up from the Trinity Bellwoods Flea.
Evergreen Brickworks
550 Bayview Ave.
Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village has a plethora of events to celebrate the holidays that advocates in the spirit of sustainable Christmas shopping. This market is open until Dec. 23 and is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Local vendors, craft events, and a village skating event with a holiday D.J. are all included in the weekend festivities. Families can take part in nature walks (toured or self-guided) or watch a holiday-themed play. You can even learn how to make holiday preserves! The Winter Village goes above and beyond for the holidays and is worth a visit.
Do you have a favourite Christmas market that we missed? Let us know in the comments!