Best Christmas Markets in Toronto – As the cold weather fast approaches, so too does the season of magic, twinkling lights, and toasty hot chocolate. Wondering how to keep warm this winter? We’re highlighting the best Christmas markets the Greater Toronto Area has to offer—and this year, you won’t be disappointed! Experience a magical family-friendly indoor wonderland or stroll through the glistening cobble-stone walkways of Toronto’s historic Distillery District. With Santa Claus for the kids, mulled wine for the adults, and plenty of mistletoe for the young couples, these celebrated markets have everything you need to feel the warmth of the holidays immediately.
CHRISTMAS GLOW TORONTO
First launched in 2017 near Vancouver, Canada, this holiday jubilee has grown to become one of the world’s largest indoor Christmas festivals, featured in 11 cities in 3 countries. Avoid the harsh cold, frost-bitten fingers, and chilly winds and relish in everything a traditional outdoor market has to offer—complete indoors. Offering activities and sights for the whole family, this world-famous market is sure to fill you with the warmth of the season, featuring over 80,000 sq feet of Christmas magic.
This year, Santa’s lost his presents and needs help! Your kids will explore lighted trails and celebrate the magic of the season as they help the elves find “Santa’s Lost Presents” and earn a surprise! All the while, be sure to capture the perfect selfie under Christmas Glow’s famous light tunnel, featuring 50,000 glittering lights. Or kick-off your boots and dance to some live entertainment. With LED swings and hopscotch, the whole family can swoop, jump, and relive the spirit of childhood. The kids can visit Santa and whisper their Christmas wish to the big guy in red while you shop for a unique gift in their Christmas Market or sip on a holiday beverage at their licensed bar. Looking to enhance that special date night? Enjoy the magic of Glow while you take an extra moment under the mistletoe! From 9 PM to close, explore Christmas Glow’s celebrated light gardens with some seasonal food and beverages (reserved for the big kids)… all Elf free! It all happens from November 28th to January 4th at Toronto’s Congress Centre.
Toronto Christmas Market
As Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destination since 2003, it is now a widely known fact that Toronto’s Historic Distillery District is home to one of the most gorgeous and innovate Christmas markets around. A traditional European-style winter market set in the heart of downtown Toronto, this month-long event celebrates all things Christmas throughout its cobblestone-lined streets. With artisanal foods, musicians, and local artists, you’ll be floored by the displays of traditional homemade ornaments and crafts while you sip on some mulled wines. Enjoy the sounds of a Victorian-era chorus or traditional brass bands playing your favourite Christmas songs. And, of course, when all else is done, visit old Kris Kringle to ensure your Christmas wish is dutifully delivered.
Most notably, be sure to stop by the Market’s iconic real-life 50-foot spruce tree, donated by Forests Ontario and Ontario Wood, featuring 40,000 glowing lights, 800 ornaments and an impressive 1.5km of ribbon to finish the job. If a more grown-up fare is in line with your style, cozy up at the Distillery’s award-winning beer gardens and restaurants for some holiday spirits. The market is open from November 14 to December 22, every day excluding Mondays with weekdays hosting free admission for all!
Holiday Fair in the Square
Celebrating its third year, from December 7th to the 23rd Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square will be magically transformed into the city’s newest holiday tradition. With an impressive artisan village, sporting a glamorous display of holiday hand-crafted items and delicious treats, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for to turn up your holiday cheer and beat the cold this season. Speaking of cold, be sure to visit the Jackson Triggs Polar Point in the heart of the square, featuring Jackson Triggs mulled wine, Growers apple cider, and season beer while you warm up by the hearth of a crackling fire under an array of twinkling lights.
This hybrid market-carnival boasts an incredible Holly Jolly Midway with rides like the classic carousel and teacups. Or, if sitting back and enjoying some live entertainment is more your style, the Fair in the Square has you covered with an eclectic array of professional and community performers providing a unique theatrical experience. Top it all off with a visit to the North Pole, with Mr. and Mrs. Claus providing photos on weekends, between Noon and 8 PM. Visitors are invited to make a donation to Epilepsy Toronto.
Aurora Winter Festival
You won’t need a ticket for the Polar Express to experience the magic and wonder of the Northern Lights this year—not while the Aurora Winter Festival is in town. The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) transforms Ontario Place West Island into a mind-boggling celebration of light and magic as the hit festival comes to fruition for a second year.
This breathtaking display of lights has quickly become one of Canada’s largest winter festivals. Enjoy the enchantment of a winter wonderland with an intimate skating rink, massive light displays, an artisanal Christmas market, food gardens, and more. And if a touch of mystique and wonder is what you are after, Santa and his elves will be on-site each day, sharing their favourite holiday stories—the perfect way to kick off your holiday season. The festival runs from November 22 to January 5th, with plenty of time to explore.
