If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, it’s almost mandatory that you visit The Toronto Christmas Market – now known as the Toronto Winter Village, at least once throughout the holiday season! If you’ve yet to take your annual visit – it runs all the way up to New Year’s Eve, so there’s still plenty of time! This year’s list of sponsors includes none other than Dior, giving the Winter Village a touch of luxury in the air. Although the Dior-themed Christmas tree alone would make your visit worthwhile, there is plenty to do at the Toronto Christmas Market this year! Before your visit, make sure to check out the ticket details, as some dates and times require tickets.
9 Things To Do At The Toronto Christmas Market During Your Visit
Visit Dior’s Christmas Tree
You simply can’t visit The Toronto Christmas Market without taking some time to admire (and get a picture with) the Christmas tree. This year’s tree was designed by Parfums Christian Dior, so needless to say that it’s absolutely stunning. It features 70,000 lights, 400 custom ornaments, and 1,000 custom DIOR star charms decorated throughout it.
Take Pictures At The Holiday Photo Walls
Throughout the village, there are various holiday photo ops that are sure to spice up your Instagram feed. Take a picture with your partner at the Iconic Big Heart, gather some friends around Santa’s sleigh, take the perfect fit-pic at the 11 feet-tall LED stars, and don’t forget to get some shots with the 7 feet-tall snowpeople, of course.
Hunt For Gingerbread People
There are 12 hidden gingerbread people around The Distillery Winter Village – find the one wearing a Santa hat, take a selfie, and share it on your Instagram story tagging @distilleryTO and @distilleryhospitality for a chance to win a $100 gift card to The Distillery Restaurants Corp!
Enjoy Live Entertainment
You can enjoy live entertainment from local artists throughout the holiday season, as well as sing Christmas Carol Sing-a-longs with the Candy Cane Carolers when they’re performing!
Make A Wish On A Star
Make a wish on a star from the Winter Village’s Wish Cabin! Each star is $10 and $3 goes to The Distillery Winter Village’s charitable partners. Write down your wish on a star and then hang it on the Wish trees!
Shop For Gifts
All year round you can shop The Distillery District’s 65+ shops, restaurants, and cafes – and during the holiday season you can still shop from these vendors, plus you’ll find 12 shopping vendor cabins with a curated selection of seasonal items and gifts to enjoy, too! Why not cross a few people off your gift list while enjoying the festivities?
Have A Drink At The 7 Bars
The Distillery Winter Village has no shortage of bars to visit this year! Visit 1, (or all 7), of the bars while you’re there! The bars in question: Naughty or Nice Bar, Cluny Tunnel of Lights, Archeo Bar, Thirsty Elf Bar, Madrina Bar, Fuego Bar and The Angel’s Share (a Whisky tasting experience).
Have A Bite To Eat
In addition to the restaurants you can find all year round, unique for the holiday season you can enjoy special eats from various food cabins including Churros, Hot Sauces, Empanadas, Lobster, Pierogies, Pretzels, Crepes, Fine Teas, and so much more! You’re sure to leave the village full and satisfied.
Find Santa
Of course, we can’t forget about Santa. See if you can find Santa and his Elves roaming around the Distillery District during your visit!
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The holidays are going to be a little different this year, but there are still fun activities to take part in. Christmas Markets are always a fun outing with friends or family, and a great way to support local businesses. Although, many annual markets in Toronto and the GTA will remain closed for the season, some are still open with safety precautions, while others have moved to online. Check out all of the Christmas Markets and shops open this month to get some festive goodies for the holidays.
Here are the best Christmas Markets & Shops to check out this month.
Stackt Outdoor Holiday Markets
Stackt Market is hosting small businesses and vendors at the outdoor area each weekend of December. The market will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. You can view the list of over 20 local vendors that you can shop from on the site.
The Junction 1st Annual Window Wonderland
The Junction Window Wonderland will transform the Junction neighbourhood into an outdoor gallery that is interactive, engaging, and magical. Take a stroll along Dundas St. W. and become immersed in winter-inspired artwork from 20 local artists brought to life by Augmented Reality. Enjoy the art from November 14, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
One Of A Kind
One Of A Kind, known for its crafts and workshops, has launched a platform for you to shop Canadian artists. Register for free, and enjoy the works of 700+ local stores. It’s your very own holiday market right in your home. Get in your comfy clothes and start shopping until December 20!
Distillery District Winter Village
Due to the pandemic restrictions, the Distillery District is not encouraging guests from out of town to visit the area. You can check out the Winter Village online and support the local businesses through there. The shops and galleries are available for online orders and curbside pickup, and the restaurants and coffee shops are open for takeout or delivery.
Christmas Tree Market at Markham Fairgrounds
It’s the 1st annual Christmas Tree Market at Markham Fairgrounds! Open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 10am to 8pm until December 24. Search for your perfect tree, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays. Also partake in Midway rides, Trackless Train rides, food trucks, hot chocolate, and a Christmas market.
The Sisters Touch of Christmas
The Sisters Touch Of Christmas is located in Bolton, Ontario. It’s a beautifully decorated Christmas store that feels like you’re walking through an old town market. It features hand painted ornaments, decor, and gourmet, holiday baked goods. The store is covered in gorgeous wreaths, garlands, illuminated decor, and more.
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The Distillery District’s Toronto Christmas Market is now opening and operating in full force. Taking over pretty much every square inch of the historic ‘hood, the Christmas Market offers everything from shopping and entertainment, to ample opportunities to eat, drink, and be merry.
Here are 9 things to check out at the Toronto Christmas Market this year.
Get Your Sweet Tooth Fix
The holiday season is all about indulging in sweet treats, so make sure that you sample all the tasty treats that The Christmas Market has to offer. From chimney cakes and chocolatey crepes, to butter tarts and shortbread, get all your Christmas snacks here!
Get a Photo with Santa Claus
While you can snap a pic with the big man at pretty much any mall this time of year, there’s something about doing it at the Christmas Market that makes it more official. Head to Santa’s House to get your photo taken with Santa on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. & 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on Fridays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Snack On a Massive Pretzel
Throughout the market, you’ll find an assortment of massive pretzels that you didn’t know you were missing in your life. Whether you opt for comforting and savoury, or chocolate covered and sweet, these larger-than-life pretzels are worth breaking your diet for.
Snap a Photo with the market’s iconic Tree
You can’t hit up The Christmas Market and not take a picture in front of its massive Christmas tree. The tree was donated by Forests Ontario and the Canadian Christmas Tree Growers Association and is adorned with over 40,000 lights, 800 ornaments, and two kilometres of gold ribbon.
Catch a Show on the Main Stage
Throughout the duration of the festival, there is a variety of performances will bring the main stage to life with an assortment of top musical talent. These include award-winning singers, bands, dancers, and carolers.
Indulge in the Cheese Your Dreams Are Made Of
If you’re a cheese addict, you can’t hit the Toronto Christmas Market and not stop for a plate of gooey goodness from Raclette Swiss. served over Rosemary Roasted Baby Potatoes, Sauerkraut Pierogies, Frites, or House Made Kettle Chips, this dish is like a comforting hug.
Warm up at the Nespresso pop-up
Head to the Nespresso pop up that’s located at the Christmas Market for a cup of the brands quality coffee. In addition to experiencing Nespresso’s top coffee blends, stay a while and enjoy holiday card designing workshops and DIY ornament making!
Shop For Your Christmas Tree
Did you know that Saturday, December 7 is National Christmas Tree Day? To celebrate, Forests Ontario will be on-site at the Christmas Market selling trees and wreaths inDecember 6-8 and December 13-15. The proceeds from all Christmas tree sales will go towards the planting of 50 million trees!
Go on a walking tour Through the market
Whether it’s your first time visiting the Christmas Market or you’re a regular, a walking tour with a pro from Go Tours Canada Walking Tour, is a great way to spend an afternoon. Your tour guide will show you best photo spots, all while telling you the incredible story of Toronto’s famous Distillery District.
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The holiday season is always magical, but step inside the Toronto Christmas Market that opens today, and it’s like living in a European Christmas village. But in addition to the charm and Christmas magic, there’s also a wide assortment of holiday treats available from a variety of vendors that’ll make your experience at the market even sweeter.
From classic Canadian poutine, to Belgian-style waffles, the Toronto Christmas Market has all your fave holiday treats available in spades.
Cacao 70 Express
There’s something magical about strolling through the snow with a hot chocolate in your hands. Need something sweet treat? Cacao 70 Express’ chocolatey crepes, and warm cinnamon sugar churro donuts are equally as delicious.
Schnitzel Haus
Live out your Euro market fantasy with Schnitzel Haus’ Pork Schnitzel that’s served with pickled peppers and caramelized onions on a pretzel bun. New this year is its plant-based Beyond Bratwurst made from Beyond Meat.
Lil Arvo
A sister to Arvo Coffee, a staple in the Distillery since 2016, Lil Arvo is a chocolate fondue popup that will be using only the best ingredients and serving exclusive drinks for Christmas Market goers.
Poutine du Canada
Indulge in the classic French Canadian poutine. Can’t get enough of the holiday season already? Sample the Gobbler Poutine that’s made with smoked turkey and stuffing, or opt for the Champignon Poutine that’s made with mushroom and tasty roasted garlic.
Santa’s BBQ
Thought barbecue season was over? Think again because we hear that Santa loves a Bratwurst. This is the place to go for all things meat with offerings ranging from hot dogs, thick-cut smoked bacon sandwiches, and Beyond Bratwurst sausage, to jumbo pretzels, traditional german pork jerky, and even grilled corn.
Winter Warmers
Nothing is better than a warm and cozy meal on a chilly winters day. Warm up with Winter Warmers and its pierogies or split pea and ham soup.
Pretzel Haus
Everyone loves a portable snack, right? Stroll around the market and enjoy a variety of pretzels from Pretzel Haus. Options range from sesame seed pretzels and poppy seed pretzels, to cinnamon sugar pretzels, marzipan stollen, and fruit cake.
Das Kartoffelhaus
Potato’s truly make the world go round and here at Das Kartoffelhaus, you can enjoy a whole potato spiralled onto a skewer with a choice of your favourite seasoning.
Good Grieves
There’s nothing like enjoying quality shortbread at this time of year and the folks at Good Grieves know it. The store’s handmade recipe is super delicious as it’s been made by hand with the family recipe!
Eva’s Original Chimneys
A Christmas Market must-try are Eva’s Original Chimneys. These chimney cakes are hand-rolled and freshly baked. Plus they’re a delicious, warm and festive treat that’s served just like in traditional Hungarian Christmas markets.
Schokoladen S’mores
You had us at s’mores! These s’mores in a jar are exactly what dreams are made of with a golden graham crust bottom, layered with house-made marshmallow cream, and finished with decadent chocolate ganache.
The Gingerbread House
What is Christmas without gingerbread? Enjoy sugar cookies, cake pops, marshmallow pops, chocolate-dipped pretzels, and of course, gingerbread.
Wafel Bar
Waffles are great but have you ever had a real Belgian Liege-style waffle? Well it’s time you did and Wafel Bar’s are served fresh off the hot cast iron and are delicious on their own, or they can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings.
Tartistry
You may feel like you’re in a European Christmas market but you’re still in Canada. Sample beloved butter tarts at Tartistry that are made with 100% barrel-churned creamery butter and pure bourbon vanilla.
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We know it seems a little shocking to already be talking about Christmas, but the 2018 Toronto Christmas Market will be coming back and it will be bigger and run longer than ever! The people behind the festival have announced that the sale will run for a total of 39 days this holiday season.
Officially, the event kicks off in just over a month, as the Christmas Market rolls into town on November 15, 2018.
As always the Christmas market will feature entertainment, beer gardens and wine stands, Christmas themed vendors and is truly one of the gems of the city nestled in the historic Distillery District.
The Christmas Market is great fun for the whole family with free admission during weekdays. If you want to go at night or during the weekend there is a charge, but all proceeds go to supporting local charities.
Funds raised from ticket sales will go to support three charities. The Daily Bread Food Bank, Plan International Canada and The Toronto Star Sandal Claus Fund.
If you are interested in visiting the market, tickets are available online, or you can get tickets at the door.
What
The Toronto Christmas Market
Where
The Distillery District
When
Nov 15 – December 23rd, 2018.
Christmas market is open from Tuesday – Sunday.
The days may be getting colder and shorter, but that doesn’t mean you should spend your date nights holed up watching Netflix and ordering pizza. Although some nights are best spent cuddled up on the couch, there are so many amazing date spots around Toronto to take advantage of this season. From sipping on artisanal lagers at the Winter Craft Beer Festival to skating under the stars to some of Toronto’s top DJs, here are 6 incredible dates you need to go on this winter.
Casa Loma’s Escape Game Series
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Head to Casa Loma to escape for a night in one of their three escape games. Whether you want to try your luck escaping the tower before your enemies hit (Escape from the Tower), take a trip back in time to the events that inspired the James Bond series (Station M), or tunnel below the castle into a 1920s speakeasy (King of Bootleggers), there’s something in this trio of games for everyone. With real actors elevating the playful experience, it’s an escape game unlike any other. And it makes for a perfect winter date night.
Winter Craft Beer Festival
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What better way to keep warm than sipping on Ontario craft beers and noshing delicious food? Toronto’s Craft Beer Festival runs from 11 to 5 pm on Saturday, February 10 at Roundhouse Park. Wear your best retro ski gear for a fun date where you can spend the day drinking only the best quality, artisanal style beers.
DJ Skate Nights at Harbourfront Centre
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What could be more fun than skating under the stars with your date? Every Saturday night from 8 to 11 pm you can skate among some of Toronto’s hottest DJs on the Natrel rink at Harbourfront Centre. Plus, it’s totally free. With musical styles ranging from Latin to hip-hop to soca, you can pick whatever event suits you and your skating moves best.
Try out a Winterlicious Spot
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Winterlicious is the ultimate winter foodie event, giving you the chance to enjoy Toronto’s culinary scene at different spots around the city. More than 200 restaurants are participating in Winterlicious this time around, offering experiences from cooking classes, to tasting and pairings, to menus, specifically created for the event. It runs from January 26 to February 8, 2018, and is ideal for any couple with a healthy appetite!
Go for a Spin
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If you want to get a little competitive (in the most fun way) head to SPiN, Toronto’s ping pong social club for a night of friendly matches. With two bars, and a cocktail and food menu, you can spend hours eating, drinking and ping pong-ing. You can book a table ahead of time or try your luck going early.
Hit Up the Distillery District
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Come wintertime, the Distillery District plays host to two awesome festivals. The Toronto Christmas Market runs from now until December 23, and Toronto Light Fest goes from January 19 to March 4, 2018. Both these outdoor festivals are a lovely and romantic way to spend an evening. With the Light Fest, you can enjoy perusing local and international light exhibitions that will lift the city’s winter spirits.
Did we miss any great winter date ideas? Share with us in the comments section.
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Winter is one of the best seasons to take in everything Toronto has to offer. It may get cold here in the Great White North, but that doesn’t mean you should stay inside and hibernate all season long. Bundle up, get outside, and enjoy the chilly season. With everything from holiday markets, to skating and skiing, and winter vineyard tours, there’s so much to do in Toronto come winter.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your days (and nights) this season, here are 5 cliché but totally awesome things to do in and around Toronto this winter!
Toronto Christmas Market
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The Toronto Christmas Market is a must-visit for a true Torontonian winter. The city’s Distillery District is transformed into a magical, holiday fest with activities for all ages to enjoy. It boasts one of Toronto’s largest real Christmas trees, locally crafted products, festive lighting, beer gardens, a carousel, and of course, Santa and his reindeer. It’s one of the best ways to spend a day (or night) this winter!
Hit the Slopes
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If you’re a skier or snowboarder or want to try your luck on the slopes this year, there are quite a few ski hills in the surrounding Toronto area. From Blue Mountain, about 2.5 hours north, to Hockley Valley, less than two hours North West and Ski Dagmar to the East, you can spend the day on the slopes and warm up with a warm hot chocolate and poutine in the chalet afterwards.
Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village
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If you’re looking to get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors this winter, head to Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village to embrace the cold and snow. From campfires to tours of the Don Valley trails, you can see the winter wonderland Toronto has to offer. You can also browse the Holiday Etsy Market on Sundays and shop fresh produce at the Saturday Farmers Market.
Snowshoe Vineyard Tours
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If you thought winery tours were just for spring and summer, think again. Less than a three hour drive from Toronto, the Grey county region offers snowshoeing vineyard tours at the Georgian Hills Vineyards. Snowshoe through the wineries, and end the day cozying up by the fire with a glass of vino and artisan cheese board.
Ice Fest
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Come February, the Bloor-Yorkville annual ice fest will have the neighbourhood transformed into a showcase of intricate ice sculptures and ice carving demonstrations. This year’s Ice Fest theme will be Canada 150, so you can expect gorgeous creations including Canadian Mounties and the Parliament Buildings. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and take in the gorgeous sculptures. The event is free and takes place on Saturday, February 25 (12 noon – 8 pm) & Sunday, February 26 (12 noon – 5 pm.)
Do you know any other amazing things to do in Toronto this winter? Share with us in the comments.
Featured image: torontochristmasmarket.com
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