Ho, ho, ho, Ontario! The festive season is officially in full swing, and we've got the ultimate guide to the province's top holiday markets.
These markets offer more than just shopping—they're all about shared experiences, creating memories with friends and family, and finding unique treasures all the loved ones on your list will adore.
Here are ten great holiday markets to visit in Ontario this festive season, where the spirit of the season shines brighter than ever.
Indulge in seasonal treats, enjoy the heart-warming sounds of carollers, and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your nice list.
1. The Distillery Winter Village in the Distillery Historic District, Toronto
Open now through January, The Distillery Winter Village, formerly The Toronto Christmas Market, is known for its European-inspired charm with cobblestone streets with loads to see and do. Visitors can shop for one-of-a-kind handcrafted ornaments, artisanal chocolates from SOMA Chocolatemaker, and unique gifts from local vendors. Carollers, a giant Christmas tree, and charming shopping cabins create a festive atmosphere that’s pretty hard to top.
2. Christkindl Market, Kitchener
This market arrives in Kitchener on December 7 for a good time but not a long time—just three days! Be sure to visit the Christkindl Market, an iconic German-themed holiday market that has a rich history in Kitchener and dates back to the 1500s in Germany. Here you'll find traditional German crafts, including intricate nutcrackers and handmade wooden ornaments and have the chance to sample authentic German cuisine, such as bratwurst and mulled wine.
3. One of a Kind Show, Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto
Here’s another not-to-miss market with a brief window to shop some seriously unique treasures. The One of a Kind Show is a haven for Canadian made goods including art, apparel, food, furniture, and so much more. It's a great place to discover one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by Canadian makers, artisans, and designers for all those special people on your list who seem to have everything. The One of a Kind Show kicks off on November 23 and runs till December 3 at Toronto's Enercare Center.
4. Ottawa Christmas Market, Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
Step into a winter wonderland in the heart of Canada's capital, where the Ottawa Christmas Market transforms the city into a festive playground of lights and holiday magic that will leave you in awe. Located in Aberdeen Square, this market is surrounded by snow-capped heritage buildings and wooden chalets, and features Christmas lights and decorations that create a festive atmosphere that is accompanied by holiday entertainment, local flavours, workshops, and, of course, holiday shopping. This market kicks off on November 24th and runs until December 23rd.
5. Toronto Art Crawl, Christmas Pop-Ups, Toronto
Discover Toronto's arts and crafts scene and shop some extra unique gifts your friends and family will cherish at two Toronto Art Crawl events this holiday season. On Sunday, December 3rd at The Great Hall, shop directly from the hands of 80+ amazingly talented Toronto artists and artisans. Then on Saturday, December 16th, the Toronto Art Crawl is taking over the Toronto Event Centre, where you'll find 120+ local artists and vendors selling one-of-a-kind goods including art, photography, wood work, jewellery, apparel, accessories, candles, fashion, sweet treats, skincare, and more. Plus come enjoy delicious food, fresh coffee, and mulled wine. Do note that tickets are free, they must be reserved in advance via their website.
6. Holiday Street Market - Light Up the Square, Mississauga
Kicking off on Saturday, November 25th, celebrate the magic of winter in the heart of Mississauga at Light Up the Square. Alongside the tree-lighting ceremony, the Holiday Street Market offers tasty treats and artisanal, locally made goods. There will also be ice skating and live performances and music.
7. Holiday Artisan Market at The Great Hall, Toronto
Taking place Sunday, November 26th in Toronto's historic Great Hall, this exclusive, one-day-only artisan market is the perfect spot to kick off your holiday shopping with unparalleled finds and a new twist on festive treasures. Unearth exclusive items at this unique event, like candles, phone cases, home decor, fashion and accessories, and delicious treats to sample while you shop.
8. The Merry Market, London
It’s almost time to celebrate the spirit of the season at the 4th annual Merry Market at 100 Kellogg Lane in London. Admission is free this year so make sure you stop by and enjoy delicious food and drinks, picture-perfect photo ops, and a diverse array of vendors. Find everything from handcrafted goods and delicate ornaments to knitted scarves and holiday treats. This market runs on select days from November 30th through December 17th. Check the event page for full schedule.
9. Christmas on the Bay, Meaford
Georgian Bay's largest European-style Christmas market takes place in historic downtown Meaford from November 30th to December 3rd this year. Come and enjoy live music, light displays, outdoor fire pits, and vendor stalls showcasing a variety of foods and artisan creations. Other highlights include a cookie decorating contest, scavenger hunt, and selfies with Santa.
10. Holiday Fair in the Square, Toronto
Running from December 1 through to the 23rd, this cherished holiday event in support of Epilepsy Toronto is moving from Nathan Philips Square to Mel Lastman Square. Stroll through the stalls of the artisan marketplace, warm up in the Fireside Lounge while sipping a hot chocolate or mulled wine and toasting your very own s’more, or enjoy a visit with Santa himself! Holiday Fair in the Square is a holiday tradition you don’t want to miss.
