‘Tis the season to be jolly and spend your days strolling through the many holiday markets Ontario has to offer. Whether you’re looking for gifts, festive food, or just a place to soak in all the Christmas spirit you can, there’s a market waiting for you.
We suggest that you find the closest Xmas markets to you from the list below and discover just what the holiday season in Ontario is all about.
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Where to Find Ontario Christmas Markets Near Me?
If you’ve planned a Christmas vacation in Ontario, browsing the nearby holiday markets is a great idea if you’ve planned a Christmas vacation in Ontario. Most cities and major towns will have their own markets, some large and loud, and others smaller and more intimate, but still just as festive.
You will, of course, find plenty of Christmas markets in Toronto, as well as quite a few in Ottawa. But even if you’ve chosen to stick to the smaller towns and villages, Christmas markets are sure to be found close by.
Bring the whole family for food, drinks, and enchanting nights of shopping under the stars. And if you don’t have your own Christmas tree, be sure to enjoy the market trees you’ll find at almost every market. Just follow the twinkling lights and soft sounds of Christmas music. And if you happen to see a big man in a bright red suit, you should probably follow him too.
Ontario’s Most Festive Holiday Markets
Ontario has several markets throughout the province, but if trying to visit them, it may take up your entire December if trying to visit them. So here’s a list of the most mentionable ones, with information on where and when you can find them.
Niagara Falls Christmas Market
Address: 4695 Queen St, Niagara Falls
Open from mid-November to mid-December, this is a stunning outdoor market, set against the backdrop of Niagara Falls. The market includes a Niagara Falls Santa Claus parade, tree lighting, and Christmas movies.
You can visit this market on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. There are plenty of stalls, light-up activities, and live music performances each night. This is a great place to come with the whole family, and it’s free to enter, so it’s a great budget activity too.
Ottawa Christmas Market
Address: Casino Lac-Leamy Plaza, Ottawa
Open from late November to just before Christmas, this market is one of the most popular in the province. There are plenty of activities to take part in, from cocktails and crafts for the adults to breakfast with Santa for the kids.
Open over weekends, with some free and some paid attractions, the Ottawa Christmas Market will have all visitors feeling festive as soon as you enter. Since there is so much to do here, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book your tickets for workshops and events before you go.
Christkindl Market, Kitchener
Address: Kitchener City Hall, 200 King St. W
This German-inspired Christmas market has been running since 1997, and it’s one of the biggest in Ontario. There are over 140 artisans selling crafts and gifts, plus live music and lots of food vendors selling traditional German foods.
Admission is always free, and besides the typical Christmas fun, visitors can also enjoy self-guided tours that delve into the history of Kitchener. This market is open from Friday to Sunday, and it’s the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping done.
Burlington Holiday Market
Address: Between Elizabeth and Pearl streets
Burlington is a newer Christmas market in Ontario, first opening in 2021. The market is based on a lot of the others around the province, however, so you know it’s a festive one. It’s set on a large lot, with more than enough space for vendors and stalls.
You’ll find holiday-themed art features, concerts and choirs, and lots of fun activities for everyone. The hope is to bring this market to life annually, so support it and attend for the chance to come back in the years to come.
Merry Market, London
Address: 100 Kellogg Lane, London, Ontario
Each year, the town of London, Ontario, is treated to an absolute wonderland that takes place in an old Kellogg’s cereal factory. The market has its outdoor Winter Village and indoor Twinkle Town, and it is as magical as it sounds.
There are food trucks to indulge your festive appetites in, and more stalls than you could count. There’s also a donation drive that supports a local charity, so you’re contributing to those in need each time you support the market.
The Distillery District Market
Address: Toronto Distillery District
When you speak of Toronto Christmas markets, the annual market held in the Distillery District is almost always mentioned. The cobblestone streets come alive each year, with Christmas lights and glimpses of elves and even Santa himself.
One of the big draws of this winter village market is the 55 foot tall Silver Fir Christmas Tree — adorned with charming decorations. And for real ambiance, seek out the buskers and carolers who treat visitors to Christmas songs each night.
Mackinnon Brothers Outdoor Holiday Market
Address: MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company, 1915 County 22 Road, Bath
Whether you’re based in Kingston, or you’re exploring the Greater Napanee region this December, a stop at the Mackinnon Brothers Outdoor Holiday Market is a must. This market is held on a brewery farm and promises a schedule of events for all.
There are more than 75 vendors typically found at the market, and Santa makes an appearance before Christmas too. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while keeping warm with cozy drinks or an adult beverage.
Experience Christmas in Ontario at a Market
While there are many winter activities in Ontario to keep you busy, you should schedule at least one visit to an Ontario Christmas market. These markets offer a chance to meet a few businesses and support the local community who help keep them going.
There is also always a cheerful atmosphere found at these Christmas events in Ontario that help you get into the holiday spirit. Enjoy the food, as well as a few warming drinks, go shopping, meet Santa, and enjoy the overall vibe.
