Bright & Merry Market launches holiday season in Ontario city

Oshawa’s Bright & Merry Market launches festive season Nov. 20

The holiday season officially kicks off in Oshawa November 20 with the return of the Bright and Merry Market, an annual event that transforms the are around City Hall’s Civic Square into a festive celebration filled with twinkling lights and plenty of holiday cheer.

Visitors can enjoy roaming entertainment and buskers throughout the event, including live entertainment at nearby Memorial Park and family activities, with an opportunity to explore your creative side with hands-on art activities by LivingRoom Community Art Hive or paint a bus with Durhamways.

The annual event also features rides around downtown Oshawa on the holiday trolley, festive displays and a chance for kids of all ages to snap a photo with Santa.

Park Illumination: At 8:30 p.m., join us in the North Parkette at City Hall where we’ll officially kick off

The city will launch the festive season in style at the North Parkette at 8:30 p.m. when the park will be set aglow with festive lights and installations.

There will also be a vendor market offering handmade gifts, one-of-a-kind treasures and festive finds from talented local artisans and makers, with stops at downtown’s local shops and businesses also on the agenda.

“It’s the perfect opportunity,” the city noted in a news release, “to shop local and support small businesses this holiday season!

There will also be food and beverage options available from food vendors throughout the event or from one of the many restaurants and eateries in downtown Oshawa.

By Glenn Hendry, INSAUGA Ontario