Whether you’re visiting Ontario this holiday season or you're a local trying to uncover exciting new places to embrace the Christmas spirit, you'll find no shortage of magical markets in The Heartland Province.
The best Christmas markets in Ontario offer a festive blend of twinkling lights, delicious treats, and beautiful gifts. Join us as we explore our seven favourite Christmas markets in The Heartland Province, from the dazzling displays of Toronto and the old-world charm of Kitchener's Christkindl Market to the artisanal treasures of Kingston.
We’ve also created a list of the best Christmas markets in Canada to help you have the most memorable festive season!
7 of the Best Christmas Markets in Ontario
Discover the best Christmas markets in Ontario with this comprehensive list from Ask Genie. They're guaranteed to get you in a festive mood and come away with cherished memories.
1. Ottawa Christmas Market
Ottawa Christmas Market is a gem in Ontario’s festive crown! You can't ask for a better setting than the historic Aberdeen Pavilion in Lansdowne Park to set the stage for a merry market.
You can wander through stalls packed with local and handmade treasures (gift shopping just got way more exciting) and listen to live music that'll have you tapping your feet and grinning from ear to ear.
From tasty seasonal treats to the tallest tree in town, it's a holiday party for everyone. If you want your Christmas market visit to blend tradition and local flair, Ottawa's got you covered!
Dates: November 24 - December 23, 2023 (Friday-Sunday)
Location: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON K1S 5J3, Canada
Highlights: 45+ vendors, 16 days of entertainment, Santa's workshop, Christmas tree lighting, silent disco night, and hockey games.
2. Kingston Holiday Market
Stroll through the heart of Kingston as it's transformed into a winter wonderland over the Christmas season, and you'll soon come across the Kingston Holiday Market. It's a treasure trove of artisanal treats, with local vendors bringing handcrafted gems, unique gifts, and probably the coziest knitwear you've ever seen.
But it's not just about Christmas shopping - it's a whole experience. Kingston is buzzing with holiday cheer, live music fills the streets, and the aroma of delicious treats tempts you at every corner. Seriously, the food alone is worth the visit - think comfort food with a festive twist.
And, if you're into supporting local talent (who isn't?), this is your spot. The Holiday Market shines a spotlight on Kingston's creativity and is a celebration of community and craftsmanship.
Dates: December 2-17, 2023 (weekends only)
Location: The Tett Centre, 370 King Street West, Kingston, ON, K7L 2X4
Highlights: Local makers and delicious food in a unique space.
3. Distillery Winter Village, Toronto
Stepping foot in the Distillery District over Christmas is like stepping into a movie scene. The Distillery Winter Village (once known as the Toronto Christmas Market) has enough Christmas lights to rival the stars in the sky and wooden chalets as far as the eye can see, right in the heart of the city.
Each stall has unique, handmade gifts, ranging from intricate ornaments to comforting scented candles. It's not your typical mall haul - it's a haven for independent makers.
And the star of the show? The food. Oh boy, the food. Bratwurst, schnitzel, and mulled wine that warms your hands and heart as you wander through the winter village, listening to carolers and seeking out Santa.
Dates: November 16, 2023 - January 7, 2024
Location: 51 Gristmill Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3R6, Canada
Highlights: Live entertainment, local vendors, centrepiece Christmas tree, Christmas carol sing-alongs, tree lighting ceremony and a skating rink.
4. Christkindl Market, Kitchener
Find authentic German flair at Kitchener's Christkindl Market. The giant Christmas tree, wooden stalls, and the warming scent of cinnamon create an ambience that's well worth the trip.
If you're a fan of German food, you'll find no shortage of it here. There's an abundance of meats, pretzels, and sweet treats. Don't even think about leaving without trying the heavenly gingerbread cookies.
Then, there are the pop-up shops. From handcrafted goodies to unique treasures, every stall tells a story. It's like having a slice of Germany right here in Kitchener. If you're after a European-style Christmas market that's not just festive but feels like a holiday adventure, Kitchener's Christkindl Market is for you!
Dates: December 7-10, 2023
Location: Kitchener City Hall, 200 King St. West, Kitchener, ON, Canada N2G 4G7
Highlights: German food, 100+ vendors, European-themed gifts, and musical performances.
5. Cambridge Christmas Market
Cambridge Christmas Market is an award-winning Christmas market for a reason. Well, several reasons. It has a close-knit community feel that you just can't fake. You can chat with local makers, share smiles over cups of hot chocolate, and soak up the holiday spirit in the Cambridge air.
When it comes to holiday shopping, Cambridge Christmas Market is a goldmine of local treasures. Local artisans bring their best wares, offering up everything from handmade crafts to thoughtful gifts. It's basically your one-stop shop for unique finds that'll make you everyone’s favourite family member.
Last but definitely not least is the food. You have everything from classic comfort eats to festive treats that'll ensure you leave feeling happy and full.
Dates: December 9-10, 2023
Location: Cambridge City Hall, 50 Dickson St., Cambridge, ON, N1R 8S1
Highlights: Choir, Salvation Army band, almost 60 local vendors, and food trucks.
6. Burlington Holiday Market
The Burlington Holiday Market puts a Canadian twist on traditional European holiday markets. Saunter into downtown Burlington to find an abundance of fairy lights glistening against the Ontario sky, catch some incredible live music, and maybe even see Santa drop by for a 'ho ho ho'.
With over 15,000 people attending this vibrant market in 2022, you need to visit to see what all of the fuss is about. Whether you’re eating and drinking your way through the holiday market or taking advantage of the endless amounts of photo opportunities. And you can’t miss the Burlington Festival of Lights to make your trip truly special.
Dates: December 8-11, 2023
Location: Throughout downtown Burlington
Highlights: Live music, light festival, Santa, and food and drink.
7. Friday Harbour Christmas Market, Innisfil
Head down to the Friday Harbour Christmas Market to see the promenade transformed into a lakeside wonderland just in time for the holiday season. On November 25th, Friday Harbour lights its dazzling 40-foot Christmas tree so you can feel its warm, festive glow no matter which market stall you're at.
There's plenty of live entertainment, a chance for photos with Santa and his elves, and cozy lounges where you can escape the cold and sip on an indulgent hot chocolate.
The lakeside magic is what truly sets this Ontario Christmas market apart. It's not just a market; it's a stunning Christmas experience against the backdrop of Lake Simcoe.
Dates: November 24 - December 30, 2023
Location: Friday Harbour, 3999 Friday Dr, Innisfil, ON L9S 0J7, Canada
Highlights: Live entertainment, DJs, carolers, elves & Santa, festive food, and warming lounges.
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FAQs About the Best Christmas Markets in Ontario
Is the Toronto Christmas Market Worth It?
The Toronto Christmas Market, now known as The Distillery Winter Village, is said to be one of Ontario's best Christmas markets (if not the best Christmas market in Ontario). The cobblestone streets come alive with twinkling lights, their giant Christmas tree steals the show, and the smell of the food is enough to draw you in, never mind the taste.
Whether you're a holiday shopper, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak up the seasonal joy, the Distillery Winter Village is the place to be. So, in a nutshell, it’s absolutely worth it!
Which is the Biggest Christmas Market in Ontario?
The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto is considered the biggest Ontario Christmas market, attracting a huge number of visitors each year and completely taking over the Distillery District.
What Date is the Orangeville Christmas Market?
The Orangeville Christmas Market takes place on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. You'll find food trucks serving your favourite treats, handcrafted goods by local artisans and more!
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