Make your season bright by jingling all the way to these exciting holiday markets for unique gifts and festive experiences.
Kickstart the holiday season at holiday markets across the city. November and December are the perfect months to embrace the festive spirit, complete your gift shopping and enjoy wintery refreshments surrounded by twinkling lights and sparkling company. Here’s where you’ll find 2023’s ultimate holiday markets and festivals in Toronto.
The Bentway
At the one-day-only Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market (November 4, 2023), The Bentway will host more than 180 local artists and artisans. With a wide range of creations—from photography and fine art to skincare and fashion—you’ll be sure to score the right gift for even the hardest-to-shop for people on your list. Plus, with DJ Kid Artik spinning tunes and delicious food vendors on hand, your holiday shopping will feel less like a chore and more like a party.
Distillery Historic District
Get merry at the Distillery Historic District’s annual Distillery Winter Village (formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market). The merry vibes kick off with a tree lighting ceremony (November 16, 2023) and run through New Year’s Eve.
This photogenic outdoor market is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Toronto. It takes place in a Victorian-era neighbourhood, with adorable cabins where you can find unique gifts for everyone on your list and warm up with hot cocoa and gourmet bites once you’ve shopped and fêted your heart out.
The Well
Holiday at The Well is sure to be a highlight this season. Running Thursdays through Sundays from November 17 to December 3, The Well offers a journey into a Nordic-inspired playground full of winter-time activities. Music performances, family entertainment, light displays and more are among some of the main attractions of this free outdoor event.
Once you have checked out the festive offerings, drop into one of the many retail stores to find the perfect gift for your family and friends.
Stackt Market
The Stackt Holiday Hills (November 17 to December 31, 2023) takes place at an iconic shipping container market downtown. This all-encompassing holiday festival includes prime shopping from independent retailers, alongside spectacular immersive installations, live music Fridays, beloved outdoor winter games, aaaand holiday drinks to sip and savour (last year, there was a whiskey yurt!).
Canada’s Wonderland
Get your jolly on at the Christmas Market at WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland (November 17, 2023 to January 6, 2024). In partnership with Mama’s Locally Market, holiday market wares include something for everyone on your shopping list—or at least the nice ones—with soaps, jewelry, candles, imported oils, hats, scarves and delectable bites, too (cotton candy, doughnuts, bubble tea and cheesecake, to name just a few).
Enercare Centre
A Toronto shopping tradition, the One of a Kind Winter Show (November 23 to December 3, 2023) is back at the expansive Enercare Centre, so you can shop 650-plus vendors under one roof. But it’s not just shopping: check out fashion shows, panels, DJs and the Evergreen Competition (where artisans vie to create a unique piece celebrating nature).
Swifties will not want to miss the special OOAK (one-of-a-kind) TSwift Dance Party (November 26, 2023) for Eras-inspired outfits created by fans in a special runway show. It’ll be a Merry Swiftmas, indeed!
Riverside Common
It’s a family affair at the Riverside C’Mon Holiday Market (November 26, 2023), as kids and kids at heart will love the carolling and live music, while the littles can meet Santa and take part in free crafts. Taskmasters can get their holiday shopping done at the same time, too. Local vendors will have jewelry, clothing and plenty of other giftables your friends and family will adore.
The Great Hall
You’ll get a reputation for being the best gift giver after shopping at the Great Hall Holiday Market (November 26, 2023). Here, you can find unique, fresh finds from more than 40 local makers. A pretty piece of handmade jewelry perfect for your sister? Check! Stunning art print for mom? Check. A great scarf for your SO? Check! Arrive early: there’s a VIP swag bag for the first 30 people.
Lithuanian House
Celebrate ethical and sustainable living at the two-day Toronto Vegan Christmas Market (December 9 and 10, 2023). The market will feature local entrepreneurs focused on plant-based fashion, accessories, body care and food. Foodies should make a beeline for Bodhï Gourmet, the first Canadian company to offer vegan fish sauce and vegan oyster sauce.
