~ A guide to some Christmas markets in Ontario ~

Ontario’s Christmas markets are perfect for immersing yourself in the holiday spirit, with twinkling lights, artisanal products, and warm seasonal treats. Each market brings its own unique charm, featuring local vendors, delicious food, entertainment, and a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger. Here’s a guide (list) to some of Christmas markets in Ontario, with details on dates, locations, and what to expect at each.

Distillery Winter Village – Toronto

Dates: November 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025

Location: Distillery Historic District, 55 Mill Street, Toronto

Toronto’s iconic Distillery Winter Village transforms the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District into a picturesque holiday wonderland. With over 65 local shops and holiday-themed pop-up vendors, the market offers unique crafts, holiday decor, gourmet food items, and festive drinks. The giant Christmas tree is a must-see, and there are plenty of Insta-worthy spots to capture the holiday magic. The village also has cozy food cabins serving holiday classics like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and seasonal snacks. Note that entry is ticketed on weekends and weekday evenings. (list)

Christkindl Market – Kitchener

Dates: December 5 – 8, 2024

Location: Kitchener City Hall, 200 King St W, Kitchener

Celebrating the spirit of a traditional German Christmas market, Kitchener’s Christkindl Market is a festive favorite that brings European holiday charm to Ontario. This market is known for its enchanting displays, from the Christmas pyramid to hand-carved nativity scenes. Shoppers can browse a variety of German-inspired goods, including ornaments, wooden toys, and hand-knitted scarves. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious German treats like schnitzels and bratwurst, and warm up with a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine). Carolers, choirs, and traditional German dance performances create a cozy, festive atmosphere. (list)

Uxbridge Farmers’ Christmas Market

Dates: Sundays from November 3 – December 8, 2024

Location: Uxbridge Arena Hall, 291 Brock Street West, Uxbridge

The Uxbridge Farmers’ Christmas Market offers a relaxed holiday shopping experience where you can support local artisans and farmers. Here, visitors will find homemade jams, hand-poured candles, jewelry, and unique holiday gifts, alongside festive treats like holiday cookies and artisanal teas. The market is held indoors, making it the perfect cozy getaway to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. (list)

Handmade Market – Niagara Falls

Dates: November 29 – December 1, 2024

Location: Niagara Falls Convention Centre, Niagara Falls

The Handmade Market in Niagara Falls is a treasure trove for those who appreciate unique, handmade items. Featuring over 175 Canadian artisans, this market offers everything from cozy knitted items to handmade pottery, woodwork, jewelry, and gourmet treats. Visitors can also enjoy a selection of food trucks, a wine bar, and holiday-themed drinks to keep warm as they browse. Tickets must be purchased online, making this an exclusive yet inviting shopping experience for those looking for memorable holiday gifts. (list)

 Dufferin Christmas Market – Mono

Date: November 23, 2024

Location: 247090 Side Road 5, Mono

Dufferin County’s largest holiday market takes place in Mono, a charming rural town that sets the scene for a magical Christmas experience. With more than 150 vendors, the Dufferin Christmas Market has everything from handcrafted goods and festive decor to delicious seasonal treats. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate while browsing or indulge in food truck favorites as they find the perfect gift. The market also features live music, making it a lively spot to enjoy holiday cheer and support local artisans. (list)

Newmarket Farmers’ Market Christmas Markets

Dates: November 23 & 30, 2024

Location: Newmarket Riverwalk Commons, Doug Duncan Drive, Newmarket

The Newmarket Farmers’ Christmas Market offers a family-friendly environment with local vendors selling baked goods, handmade crafts, seasonal decorations, and holiday greens. This charming market is perfect for anyone looking to support local businesses in a warm, inviting space. Kids can enjoy activities, and visitors can sip hot cider while browsing the unique, locally made holiday gifts. (list)

 Holly Jolly Holiday Market – London

Location: Covent Garden Market, 130 King Street, London

Dates: November 29 – December 1, 2024, December 6 – 8, 2024, December 13 – 15, 2024 December 20 – 22, 2024

The Holly Jolly Holiday Market in London transforms the Covent Garden Market into a festive shopping haven. With Christmas carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, holiday cocktails, and handmade goods, this market is the epitome of holiday charm. It’s a great spot to shop for everything from ornaments to baked goods and locally made crafts. The market’s vibrant holiday atmosphere is perfect for families looking to make Christmas (list) memories. (list)

Once Upon a Christmas in Downtown Perth

Date: November 23, 2024

Location: Downtown Perth (list)

Once Upon a Christmas in Downtown Perth is an enchanting market set in a historic village backdrop, with traditional holiday decorations and storytelling sessions for kids. The market offers a variety of artisan goods, handmade crafts, and locally grown produce, perfect for finding authentic holiday gifts. Visitors can also enjoy festive food and hot drinks as they browse. Live music and carolers complete the magical ambiance of this event.

Muskoka Market: Huntsville Holiday Edition

Dates: November 30, 2024

Location: Main Street Downtown Huntsville

The Muskoka Market: Holiday Edition is a festive outdoor market set against the scenic backdrop of Huntsville’s countryside. Shoppers can find artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, and seasonal decor. Food stalls serve hot cider, cookies, and holiday treats, and the market features live music and a cozy holiday vibe. Families can also take part in festive activities like ornament-making, making it a delightful event for all ages. (list)

Santa at the Fairgrounds – Milton

Dates: December 7 – 8, 2024, December 14 – 15, 2024, December 21 – 22, 2024

Location: Milton Fairgrounds, Milton

Santa at the Fairgrounds transforms the local Milton fairgrounds into a cozy holiday shopping village. With a wide range of vendors offering artisan crafts, holiday decor, and gourmet foods, it’s a one-stop shop for holiday shopping. Warm beverages and treats are available, and visitors can enjoy festive entertainment, making this market a beloved event for Milton residents and visitors alike. (list)

Christmas at Alton Mill

Dates: November 21 to December 24, 2024

Location: Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen Street West, Alton, Ontario

The Alton Mill Arts Centre hosts its annual “Christmas at Alton Mill” event, transforming the historic mill into a festive wonderland. Visitors can explore open studios and galleries featuring the works of resident artists and artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for the holiday season.  The event also includes live music performances, seasonal food and beverages, and workshops where attendees can create their own holiday crafts. The picturesque setting, combined with the diverse artistic offerings, makes this event a cherished holiday tradition. (list)

Christmas Market at Williams Mill

Dates: November 30 to December 1, 2024

Location: Williams Mill Creative Arts Studios, 515 Main Street, Glen Williams, Ontario

The Williams Mill Creative Arts Studios present their annual Christmas Market, showcasing the talents of local artists and makers.  The market features a variety of handcrafted items, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and fine art, providing visitors with unique gift options.  In addition to shopping, attendees can enjoy live music, festive food and drinks, and the charming ambiance of the historic mill setting.  The event offers a delightful opportunity to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. (list)

These Ontario holiday markets offer a variety of unique goods and festive experiences. From the historic charm of Perth’s “Once Upon a Christmas” to the bustling artisan booths at Niagara’s Handmade Market, each market has something special to offer. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, tasty seasonal treats, or a heartwarming holiday (list)