The festive season is approaching, and there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by strolling through a Christmas market, savoring a cup of hot cocoa, surrounded by twinkling lights and cheerful music. In Canada, various Christmas markets and villages are now open, offering a delightful experience reminiscent of a holiday movie set.
Here are 12 delightful markets across Canada that are worth visiting this year.
1. **Yuletide Market** in Victoria:
– Dates: Until Dec. 18
– Held at Bilston Creek Farm, this annual market spans seven weekends, showcasing a diverse range of local vendors. Visitors can indulge in wood-fired pizza, enjoy live performances, and explore different makers every weekend. The event culminates in a night market on Dec. 18.
2. **Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market** in Calgary:
– Dates: Until Nov. 30
– This Calgary favorite, running for three weekends in November, features over 300 artisanal vendors, Santa visits, gift-wrapping stations, children’s crafting activities, and plenty of entertainment.
3. **Vancouver Christmas Market** in Vancouver:
– Dates: Until Dec. 24
– Located at Jack Poole Plaza with a picturesque backdrop of water and mountains, this market offers a touch of European charm. Visitors can enjoy a walk under the Christmas tree, ride a classic carousel, savor traditional German delicacies like bratwurst and Glühwein, and explore 75+ vendors offering handmade goods and ornaments.
4. **Distillery Winter Village** in Toronto:
– Dates: Until Jan. 4
– Transforming the historic Distillery District into a festive wonderland, Toronto’s Distillery Winter Village boasts wooden cabin shops, food stalls, outdoor bars, and a stunning 17-meter Christmas tree at its heart.
5. **Quebec City German Christmas Market** in Quebec City:
– Dates: Until Dec. 23
– Known for its scenic beauty, this market features over 90 vendors and a range of family-friendly activities. Highlights include a grand puppet parade and live musical performances by the market’s iconic Alphorn trio.
6. **Elora Christmas Market** in Elora, Ont.:
– Dates: Until Dec. 25
– This outdoor market offers boutique vendors in cedar huts, 151 decorated trees, and live performances. Visitors can warm up by the open-air fire tables while enjoying the festive atmosphere and lively music.
7. **Banff Christmas Market** in Banff, Alta.:
– Dates: Until Dec. 14
– Nestled amidst the stunning Rockies, this market combines old-world charm with mountain allure. With offerings from 175 local vendors, live music, Santa photos, and a cozy outdoor fire lounge, it’s a storybook setting for relaxation.
8. **Evergreen Market** in Halifax:
– Dates: Until Dec. 14
– A part of Halifax’s Evergreen Festival, this waterfront market offers a scenic shopping experience with a selection of specialty foods, including local wine, cider, fresh bread, and treats for pets.
9. **Charlottetown Christmas Festival** in Charlottetown:
– Dates: Until Jan. 2
– This charming festival in P.E.I. features artisanal crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, and live ice-sculpting demonstrations. Special themed nights, such as the Victorian Christmas market, add to the enchanting ambiance.
10. **Great Christmas Market** in Montreal:
– Dates: Until Jan. 4
– After a hiatus, Montreal’s Great Christmas Market returns with 61 exhibitors, over 150 free shows, and activities along Jeanne-Mance Street in the Quartier des spectacles.
11. **Christkindl Market** in Kitchener, Ont.:
– Dates: Dec. 4–7
– This four-day event in downtown Kitchener captures the essence of traditional German Christmas villages with a variety of vendors, holiday treats, and festive entertainment.
12. **Fireweed Winter Market** in Whitehorse:
– Dates: Dec. 8–21
– Taking place at the Longhouse in the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, this market is the largest in Yukon, offering locally made pottery, natural soaps, artwork, and baked goods.
Experience the magic of the holiday season at these enchanting markets across Canada!