A popular Christmas market in Toronto is one way folks across the GTA are getting into the holiday spirit. But this year, some are feeling frigid about the event, citing high prices on things like bottled water and food.
On TikTok, influencer Nat Doumkos calls out the prices at the Distillery Winter Village, which until 2020 was called the Toronto Christmas Market, a name many in the city still use for it. She says: “This is seriously getting out of hand.”
The video has garnered nearly 1,000 comments and has been liked more than 20,000 times.
Doumkos, of Toronto, ran through a list of prices for items at the market, including vendors who sold bottled water for $5. Elsewhere, a viral S’Mores hot chocolate will cost you $9.95 before tax and tip, and a Rice Krispies square was advertised for $7.50. One vendor was selling festive grilled cheese sandwiches ranging from $9 to $17.
“Don’t get me wrong, I love to support these small businesses but I cannot get over the inflation,” she says. “Five dollars for a bottle of water? It’s giving Wonderland,” she quipped, referencing the popular amusement park in Vaughan, Ont.
Admission to Toronto Christmas Market used to be free all the time
TikTok user Olivia Akena lamented that in previous years, entry to the open-air attraction was free. But now admission ranges from $15 to $39.50, and free admission is only available during the off-peak hours of weekdays.
“That is so insane to me,” she says. “It’s an outdoor market. Are they not making enough revenue from all the little shops that are already in there that are charging you $17 for a hot chocolate?”
Currently, The Distillery Winter Village offers free entry every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until Dec. 16, and free entry before 4 p.m. after which tickets are required every Thursday to Sunday, and every day from Dec. 12 to the 31, which is peak holiday season.
Representatives for the event say ticketing during peak hours was introduced nearly a decade ago to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. It also helps cover costs for gate staff, additional security, and paid-duty officers to manage traffic in the surrounding area.