Local artists selling their products in Christmas market on a cold day of winter at Atwater Market, Montreal, Canada
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The holiday season is upon us and while it can feel like the to-do list leading up to Christmas morning is endless, there are certain so-called chores that can easily make the whole experience feel that much more festive and cozy.
Christmas markets are one of those things that can easily make the frenzy of the holiday build-up feel cheerful and bright—and as it turns out there are a lot of festive Christmas markets across Canada that might even rival some of the best ones in Europe.
If you want to make your holiday shopping up north a little more cheerful while also supporting local brands and makers (and perhaps indulging in a little mulled wine or hot pretzel), you’ll want to check out one of these festive Christmas markets in Canada:
The Great Montréal Christmas Market
It’s hard to miss the Great Montréal Christmas Market. The annual Christmas market sets up shop right in the middle of Place des Festivals and features more than eighty different artisans and boutiques set in picturesque chalets. There’s also plenty of food and drink to be had, including mulled wine by the generous cupful.
Montreal’s Christmas Village
Montreal’s Christmas Village, located just next to the Atwater Market, offers a similar concept to the other big market in Montreal but this one focuses on seasonal food and drink from local producers. Sample some of Montreal’s best while picking up thoughtful gifts for the foodie-inclined friends on your list.
The Québec City German Christmas Market
You don’t have to travel across the pond to get a taste of an authentic German Christmas market. The Québec City German Christmas Market draws inspiration from holiday markets in Germany and features things like German arts and crafts, a German-inspired bar, and tons of German snacks and bites. There’s also plenty for kids to see and do, including a meet and greet with Santa Claus himself.
The Toronto Christmas Market
The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is your best bet west of Quebec. Here you’ll find plenty of makers and artisans ranging from crafts to candy and chocolate as well as ongoing entertainment that includes carolers, brass bands, and more. Note that the market is free to visit on weekdays but there’s an admission charge on weekends.
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market
The sprawling Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market in Calgary boasts an incredible 330 different vendors, making it easy to find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Spruce Meadows also boasts beautiful long table dinners every Friday evening while the market is open and afternoon tea with festive flair on weekends.
Vancouver Christmas Market
The Vancouver Christmas Market sets up shop at the Jack Poole Plaza which offers a stunning view of the waterfront from inside the market. The outdoor event charges admission but once inside you’ll find a beautiful selection of European-inspired food and drink and dozens of chalets with arts and crafts and local boutique pop-ups.