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.
