Top 6 Holiday Markets to Visit in Toronto

Darting through an overcrowded mall swathed in winter wear while juggling one too many shopping bags doesn’t exactly get us in the festive spirit. Especially once December hits. So here’s a resolution worth upholding: Purchase gifts at the various holiday markets dispersed throughout the city. With cheerful atmospheres and plenty of local vendors selling one-of-a-kind wares, you can’t go wrong. Here are six holiday markets to visit in Toronto:

Distillery District Christmas Market – Nov 18 to Dec 22.

Outfitted in a sea of twinkling lights, a 52-foot Christmas tree and charming wooden stalls selling festive goods, the historic Distillery District transforms into a striking sight every holiday season. It’s no surprise it garners such a crowd. Visit the market on a weekday to avoid the throng of patrons, or stop in on a weekend and treat yourself to a few glasses of mulled wine. Win, win!

Holiday Market in Yorkville Village – Dec 2 to 22.

The former Hazelton Lanes, which received quite the facelift this year, is now a vibrant and spacious shopping destination known as Yorkville Village. For the first time, the new brightly-lit space is having its own holiday market with pop-up shops, holiday vendors, family entertainment and more.

Union Station Holiday Market – Dec 5 to 16.

Head to the newly-renovated Union Station for 12 days of merriment. The holiday pop-up is selling a myriad of products crafted by local merchants and artisans, from natural bath products and teas to handmade jewellery and delicious eats. It’s the ultimate gift-buying solution for city dwellers and commuters alike.

Holiday Fair in Nathan Phillips Square – Dec 8 to 23.

Already a celebrated winter destination thanks to its popular ice rink, Nathan Phillips Square has become even more attractive to Torontonians this season. The public space is housing a European-style holiday market with tons of artisanal products and gourmet treats on offer. It’ll also have a small carnival area complete with a carousel and a licensed bar area.

Etsy Market at Evergreen Winter Village – Dec 10 to Dec 23.

Entering Evergreen Brick Work’s winter village is enough to turn even the biggest holiday naysayer into a jovial shopper. The venue will house a Makers Market, where you can buy locally-crafted gifts from talented Etsy makers. The grounds will also have a Street Food Market, Garden Market and Sunday Farmers’ Market – all of which will continue to run well into the new year.