‘Tis the season to enjoy warm treats on chilly days
By: Rienne Mendoza
The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto’s iconic Distillery District (Vladyslava Andriyenko/Unsplash)
The holiday season is often marked by hectic gift shopping at malls and staying in as it gets dark by 4 pm. Change your scenery by checking out these six holiday markets across Canada.
Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Farm Outdoor Christmas Market
The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Outdoor Christmas Market allows visitors to celebrate local artists, makers and farmers in Dawson City, Yukon. Attendees can embrace the holiday spirit by purchasing warm treats and drinks, going on a wagon ride or sitting by the warm bonfire. The event runs from Dec. 8 to Dec. 9, and admission is free of charge.
Poster of the outdoor Christmas Market, featuring a green truck with bagged vegetables (Dawson City)
PNE Winter Fair
Do you happen to be strolling in Vancouver and looking for winter events all in one place? For 10 nights starting on Dec. 14, head to PNE Exhibition grounds for skating on the Tim Horton’s rink, holiday concerts and sightseeing holiday lights. Try new treats ranging from specialty doughnuts to holiday drinks with various onsite food and beverages. Tickets range from $15 to $12, while children under three years are free and can be purchased online.
Market Collective Cheer
Inside the BMO Centre in Calgary, explore various local businesses while munching on treats from various food and beverage vendors. Each business is unique in its own way as it explores different tastes, such as Bakery Box YYC and Issa Green. The event also features other artists, designers and musicians showcasing their works for patrons to enjoy. Tickets are available at the door for $7 on weekends, and children 12 years and under are free.
Market Collective runs from Dec. 9 to Dec. 11 at the BMO Center in Calgary. (Market Collective)
Toronto Holiday Fair
Head over to Nathan Philip Square’s magical winter wonderland until December 23. After skating in the square or strolling along the Artisan Marketplace, eat some freshly baked goods from Bee’s Knees Bakery or egg waffle desserts from Golden Bubbles. If you’re over 19, visit the Polar Point Bar and try their various holiday alcoholic drinks.
Marché de Noël de Joliette (Joliette Christmas Market)
Enjoy a more local winter market focused on Lanaudière culture in downtown Joliette until December 23. There are nearly 30 local artists showcased to help you find an original gift for someone you appreciate. While shopping, try The Donut Cabin's famous doughnuts with powdered sugar on top or enjoy a prepared meal offered by La Seigneurie des Patriotes.
Marché de Noël de Joliette entryway. (Lanaudière)
Evergreen Market
Enjoy a walk along downtown Halifax near the waterfront at the Evergreen Market until December 18. Vendors from all over the province are spread out in 22 wooden chalets adorned with festive lights, offering their very best for the holiday season. Try some warm baked goods provided by local businesses during your visit. If you’re craving some holiday sweets, check out Chocolate Wish to keep you warm.