‘Tis the season to be shopping! 

Cover Photo by freestocks on Unsplash

As the holidays approach, we at The Issue Magazine are busy looking for any opportunity to soak in the festive spirit while also being able to support some amazing local businesses. Luckily, Christmas markets are heading into town and we couldn’t be more excited if we tried.

Today, we’ll be looking at some of the best Christmas markets in Toronto and the surrounding areas in Ontario that you can get your shop on! These markets offer a selection of local and often handmade goods that you can browse to gift your loved ones this season (or you can treat yourself—we won’t judge).

The Distillery Winter Village

Admission: Free on weekdays, $11 after 4pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

Dates: November 18 - December 31, 2022

The District Dillery has been home to one of the biggest and most iconic Christmas markets in the city since 2010, with the Toronto Christmas Market dressing up this historic village with bright lights, exciting vendors, and a beautiful 50-foot tree. As a result of the pandemic, the market was rebranded to the Distillery Winter Village, sponsored by fashion brand Christian Dior. Take a stroll through the beautiful lights and check out the sustainable Toronto-made clothing and accessories on display at Hoi Bo or the affordable gemstone jewellery made by a University of Waterloo grad at Gemlet.

Website: https://www.thedistillerywintervillage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/distilleryTO/ 

Ottawa Christmas Market / Marché du Noël

Admission: Free

Dates: November 25 - December 23 (Friday-Sunday)

If you’re looking for a trip out of the city, take a drive up to the nation’s capital and experience the Ottawa Christmas Market. This market unites good eats and exciting entertainment in a display of holiday spirit. Hosting over 35 local Ottawa vendors, the market has a variety of offerings including food, apparel, jewellery, and other goodies. If you’re in the market for a new winter toque, C’s Beanies has got you covered. Looking for a cute Christmas gift for your friends or coworkers? Uptown Sox has a wide selection of fun graphic socks. Even dogs can join in on the fun with Ephemera Bespoke Handcrafts & Atelier—individualistic fashion pieces for dogs.

Website: https://www.ottawachristmasmarket.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ottawa.xmas.market/ 

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

Admission: Starting at $29.99

Dates: November 18 - December 31, 2022 (select nights)

Canada’s Wonderland isn’t just for summertime fun! The amusement park is well-known for its seasonal entertainment experiences and WinterFest is no exception. Presented by Coca-Cola and ICEE, the festival brings the best of entertainment, dining, and shopping to the Greater Toronto Area. Be transported to the Victorian era with a performance by Christmas carollers or take a stroll through the lit-up promenades. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by one of their many shopping experiences to stock up on all the holiday goodies you’ll need to truly make the most of this season!

Website: https://www.canadaswonderland.com/events/winterfest 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadaswonderland/ 

Niagara Falls Christmas Market

Admission: Free

Dates: November 12 - December 18, 2022 (Friday-Sunday) 

The Niagara Falls Christmas Market brings tourists and locals together in the historic downtown area of this famous town. Queen Street becomes an enchanting wonderland lit up with glowing swings, seesaws, and interactive displays where live music plays and the hot cocoa is always flowing! Local businesses open their storefronts or set up cabins along the main promenade, allowing for an opportunity to support their shops. And of course, it wouldn’t be a Christmas market without vendors! Check out their wide selection of handcrafted jewellery, crystals, and apparel while you’re there.

Website: https://downtownniagarafalls.com/niagara-falls-christmas-market/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtownniagarafalls/ 

Holiday Fair in the Square

Admission: Free

Dates: December 2-23, 2022 (closed on Mondays)

In the heart of the city, you’ll find Nathan Phillips Square magically transformed into a world of lights and merriment. The Holiday Fair in the Square is chock full of delicious eats and drinks to warm you up from the cold. If you’re craving excitement, head to the Holiday Midway or don a pair of ice skates and twirl around the iconic ice rink. In addition to its exciting entertainment, the fair has a lively vendor marketplace. Aaliyah Jewellery & Accessories offers sustainable pieces featuring pearl and quartz. From pom-poms to bucket hats, The Pathz features a variety of women’s hats and accessories. And don’t forget to check out Loneboi, a clothing brand that donates $1 of every sale to Kids Help Phone in support of victims of bullying.

Website: https://fairinthesquare.ca/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holidayfairto/   

Which Ontario-based Christmas shopping market are you adding to your list to visit? Let us know in the comments!