It’s that magical time of year to make a festive excursion to one of Ontario’s holiday or Christmas markets. Enjoy lively entertainment, holiday music, sparkling lights, hot cider and mulled wine this season.
Nathan Phillips Square | Destination Toronto
Check off your shopping list with one-of-a-kind gifts and homemade treats. Santa Claus, the jolly man himself, may even appear at some of these events.
Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
The Distillery Winter Village
The Distillery Winter Village (formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market) takes place in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District. Walk along the cobblestone laneways and admire the decorated vendor cabins, carollers and quaint shops. Enjoy a variety of outdoor entertainments with hot chocolate, or stop by the beer garden for a brew. At the centre of the market, the 15-metre-tall White Spruce Christmas tree, customized with bright lights and decorations, continues to be a popular attraction and one of the many favourite spots to take pictures.
When: November 17–December 31, 2022
Where: the Distillery Historic District, 51 Gristmill Lane, Toronto, south of Mill Street and between Parliament and Cherry Streets
Details: admission is free, but tickets must be purchased online in advance for visits on Fridays and Saturdays after 4:00 p.m. and during December 27–31 after 4:00 p.m.; tickets are $11 plus HST; kids 9 and under are free
One Of A Kind Winter Show
The One Of A Kind Winter Show has become a downtown tradition for locals and visitors. Meet the makers of hand-crafted apparel, jewellery, art and many unique products. Find inspiration for making creative meals and other fun demonstrations. Sneak in some late-night shopping on December 1, or visit the show on One Of A Kind Family Day for an entire day of family programming. There’s something for everyone.
When: November 24–December 4, 2022
Where: Enercare Centre, 100 Princes’ Boulevard, Unit 1, Toronto
Details: tickets are on sale now, including multi-day, single-day and special tickets combined with a GO Transit fare; free admission for children under 4
Holiday Fair in the Square
Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto’s public square, transforms into a winter holiday market. There will be delicious food and drinks at the Polar Bear Bar, hot beverages, bright lights, artisans with unique wares to sell and lots of midway games and entertainment. Enjoy activities like skating around the public skating rink, then warm up around the fire pits with your friends. Please note the fair will close at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2022.
When: December 2–23, 2022, Tuesdays to Thursdays from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 10:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West, Toronto
Details: free admission
Ottawa and Southeastern Ontario
Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market
Shop for holiday gifts in the Grand Hall of the Canadian Museum of History. There will be over 80 exhibitors in attendance selling baked goods, handicrafts, decorations and ornaments and so much more.
When: November 24–27, 2022 (Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.)
Where: Canadian Museum of History Grand Hall
Details: free admission
Ottawa Christmas Market
Also known as the Lansdowne Christmas Market, the Ottawa Christmas Market is a traditional yuletide wonderland filled with pop-up shops, hot cocoa stands and spectacular Christmas lights. Ottawa’s special annual event is complete with festive entertainment—including a visit by Santa, delicious food and lots of unique and personal gift-giving ideas.
When: November 25–December 23, 2022
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
Details: free admission
MacKinnon Brothers Outdoor Holiday Market
Celebrate the festive season on the century-old farm of MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company. The event features over 30 vendors, live music and Christmas carolling and activities such as horse-and-buggy rides and gingerbread decorating. Santa will also be there to take photos with the kids, so be sure to book in advance.
When: November 27–December 4, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company, 1915 County Road, Bath
Details: admission is $10 and kids under 12 are free
The Kingston Holiday Market
The Kingston Holiday Market will take place in person at the Tett Centre for Creativity for the first three weeks of December. There will also be an online market November 18–December 12, 2022 for more Christmas shopping.
When: December 3–4, 10–11 and 17–18, 2022
Where: 370 King Street West, Kingston
Details: free admission
Central Ontario
Canada’s Wonderland Christmas Market at WinterFest
Admission to the Christmas Market in the Courtyard is included with the purchase of Winterfest tickets. Peruse the vendor exhibits for jewellery, art, soaps and other hand-crafted products. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy cookies, hot chocolate and all sorts of delightful desserts that make the season special. WinterFest dining options will also be available.
When: November 18–December 31, 2022
Where: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan
Details: tickets from $29.99 can be bought online; admission is free for children under 3
Uxbridge Farmers Christmas Market
A trip to the Uxbridge Farmers’ Market in the Durham region makes a lovely excursion any time of the year. However, it’s extra special when it’s transformed into the annual Christmas market during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking to buy the perfect candle, pure honey or a particular piece of jewellery, you’ll find that and so much more at this cozy marketplace showcasing local handicrafts.
When: November 2022, every Sunday from 10:00 a.m.to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Uxbridge Arena Hall, 291 Brock Street West, Uxbridge
Details: free admission
Orangeville Christmas Market
Everything from food trucks to baked goods and hand-crafted goods created by local artisans will be at Orangeville’s newest Christmas Market. Look out for the next generation of vendors at a special event for selecting a talented young person to sell their idea at this year’s market.
When: November 19, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Orangeville Fairgrounds, 247090 Side Road 5, Mono
Details: free admission
Niagara Region
Niagara Falls Christmas Market
Over 50 vendors showcase their products at the Niagara Falls Christmas Market. Visitors are treated to live music, interactive light displays, glow seesaws and glow swings. There will be numerous chances to take pictures of the magical scenery and beloved Disney and Christmas characters. Take a moment to experience various food options from food trucks and many restaurants in the area while enjoying the exciting festivities.
When: November 12–December 18, 2022, every Friday from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., Saturday from 1:00 to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4:00 p.m.
Where: 4605 Queen Street, Niagara Falls
Details: free admission
Handmade Market
Over 175 Canadian makers will be in attendance at this year’s market, with thousands of unique crafts for sale. Shop for handmade products such as comfortable gloves, cozy hats, baby clothing, beauty products and so much more.
When: November 25–27, 2022
Where: Niagara Falls Convention Centre
Details: tickets will be available online starting November 1 (tickets must be purchased in advance; no tickets will be sold at the door)
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
The Burlington Holiday Market
Join local shoppers, revelers and vendors to celebrate the return of this annual seasonal market, with music, art, food and a holiday ambiance that promises to delight all ages.
When: December 8–11, 2022, Thursday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Burlington
Details: free admission
Christmas in Paris
Paris’s creative arts community shines in the spotlight at this popular shopping event featuring artistic creations such as knitting, pottery, watercolour paintings, soaps and many more one-of-a-kind items.
When: November 4–6, 2022, Friday from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Paris Fairgrounds, 139 Silver Street, Paris
Details: a voluntary admission fee of $2 is welcome at the door to support the arts
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Christkindlmarkt in Erin
Presented and hosted by the Erin Agricultural Society, Christkindlmarkt is a Christmas Market featuring unique craft vendors, activities for kids, entertainment and so much more.
When: November 19–20, 2022
Where: 184 Main Street, Erin
Details: purchase tickets in advance online to save money and avoid disappointment; online tickets for ages 12+ are $15, and kids 11 and under are free; gate prices are slightly higher and may not be available depending on capacity
Cambridge Christmas Market
Downtown Cambridge celebrates the season with its Christmas Market, which has flourished since it first launched in 2012. Get into the festive mood by shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts and sampling the seasonal food offered at this favourite family attraction.
When: Saturday, December 10, 2022, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 11, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Cambridge Centre for the Arts, 60 Dickson Street and Civic Square, 50 Dickson Street
Details: free admission
Handmade Christmas Market (Stratford)
Shop for handmade products from over 40 vendors.
When: Saturday, November 26, 2022, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Stratford Country Club, 59 Romeo Street North, Stratford
Details: tickets are $2, at the door
Christkindl Market
This bustling medieval German market has been named one of Ontario’s “Top 100” festivals and events. Sample Glühwein (mulled wine) and snack on a soft pretzel as you watch blacksmith demonstrations and take selfies with the various folklore characters milling about.
When: December 1–4, 2022
Where: TBA
Details: TBA
Sparkles
Thousands of bright festive lights are displayed in St. Jacobs Village while you enjoy extended shopping hours. Merry carollers dressed in Victorian costumes and local musicians will add to the Yuletide celebration. Apple cider will be provided courtesy of Martin’s Family Fruit Farm. Santa will be making an appearance too. There will be lots to enjoy at St. Jacob’s annual event.
When: November 17–20, 2022 and November 24–27, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: St. Jacobs Village Shops
Details: free
Holiday Sip ‘n Shop Evening Market at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
This entertaining night market features plenty of indoor and outdoor opportunities to browse for new and unique products from vendors and local artisans. Sample brews from local distilleries while listening and swaying to the tunes performed by musicians and carollers. There will be many delicious treats to try, so be sure to bring your appetite.
When: Friday, November 18 and Friday, December 2, 2022
Where: St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
Details: advance tickets are $8 plus HST; tickets at the door are $10
The Christmas Trail
The Christmas Trail offers a unique way to explore Stratford and shop for gifts at the same time. Purchase six vouchers at Destination Stratford or Bradshaws, then take a self-guided tour to over 20 participating stores along the trail, where you can exchange the vouchers for gifts. Vouchers can be used from November 1–December 20, so you can take your time shopping and exploring the city.
When: Saturday, November 1–December 20, 2022
Where: various locations in Stratford
Details: purchase six vouchers for $39.55 at two locations: Downtown Stratford, 47 Downie Street or Bradshaws, 129 Ontario Street
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Collingwood Christmas Market
This holiday season, three blocks of downtown Collingwood will light up with light installations and come alive with bustling local vendors, shops, entertaining buskers, live music and an appearance by Santa himself.
When: each Friday in December, 2022 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Collingwood, 44 Hurontario Street
Details: free admission
Christmas on the Bay
Georgian Bay’s largest European-style Christmas market takes place in historic downtown Meaford. This four-day festival features live music, outdoor bars and wooden vendor stalls that showcase a variety of foods and artisan creations. Many activities include a cookie decorating contest, scavenger hunt and selfies with Santa. It’s also a pet-friendly community. Be sure to visit the Red Apple at the market if you have any questions.
When: December 1 and 2, 2022 (2:00–8:00 p.m.), Saturday, December 3, 2022 (10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.), Sunday, December 4, 2022 (10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.)
Where: Meaford Market Square (12 Nelson Street East, Meaford); some activities will take place in Meaford Library (11 Sykes Street North, Meaford)
Details: free admission; free parking, overflow parking and parking for larger vehicles are available at Meaford Harbour
Southwest Ontario
Christmas Night Market
Downtown Dresden lights up the season with lots of holiday cheer, entertainment and shopping opportunities in the pedestrian-only streets.
When: Saturday, November 26, 2022
Where: Downtown Dresden
Details: free admission
Northern Ontario
Village Noel Temiskaming
Travel back in time to experience the ambiance and joie de vivre of a New France village during Christmastime. Join artisans, craftspeople, musicians, dancers, lumberjacks and historical personalities at this lively Northern Ontario event that takes place at the New Liskeard Fairgrounds.
When: November 24–26, 2022
Location: Fall Fair Grounds, New Liskeard
Details: free admission
Find more ways to celebrate the season at Holiday Light Festivals in Ontario.
Source: Destination Ontario
