The Toronto Christmas Market: An Adopted Tradition

With restrictions in place due to the COVID pandemic, Christmas festivities are quite muted this year. So I thought I would attempt to boost the holiday spirit by sharing some memories of the Toronto Christmas Market past. Started just over ten years ago, this month-long seasonal festival has quickly become a favourite of all ages. And no wonder! For not only does it light up Toronto’s historic Distillery District at the darkest time of the year, it also offers a smorgasbord of tasty treats and unique gift ideas.

A Christmas Fantasyland

I love visiting the Distillery District at any time, in part because it is home to my favourite local chocolate maker: SOMA Chocolatemaker. But at Christmas time, it is extra special. The former home of the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, this historic setting lends an Old World feel to the European Christmas market tradition that ‘Hollywood North’ has so happily adopted. So much so that, as you stroll along its cobblestone streets, beneath a canopy of glowing lights, you could be forgiven for feeling like you’re starring in your own movie.

Old World Meets New

And, as in European markets, quaint, wooden chalets filled with seasonal goodies line its lanes. Only here, they do so under in the shadow of a Countdown to Christmas ‘clock’ and the modern condominiums of the Distillery. So filled with delicious temptations are they, that it’s hard to pass by without partaking in some of their delicious fare. From pretzels to stollen, they easily transport me back to the Paris Marché de Noël that I visited on the Champs Élysées several year ago. Meanwhile, other treats are unabashedly Canadian.

Heartwarming Treats

And of course, there are libations available to wash these treats down with. Whether it be a cozy cup of hot chocolate or a seasonal ‘spirit’, you’re sure to find something to warm your toes. The Market is also a great place to check some items off of your Christmas gift list. Besides the vendors set up in the little chalets, there is an interesting collection of year-round retailers with lots to offer. One of my favourites is Blackbird Vintage Finds. Nestled in one of the forest green trimmed red brick distillery buildings, it’s a perfect fit for both the place and the season. I have been known to pick up an ornament or two here to add to my collection.

Magic and Wonder

The Toronto Christmas Market also offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. From seasonal selfie spots to illuminated carousel rides, Victorian carollers to elfish performers, all add to the magical atmosphere that surrounds you here. So, here’s hoping that the world is in a much better place this time next year and that the Toronto Christmas Market returns. When it does, here are a few tips if you decide to visit. Plan to go during the week to give yourself more elbow room as weekends can be quite busy. Bundle up as it can be quite chilly and you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outside. And, if you want to eat dinner at one of the Distillery’s wonderful restaurants, make a reservation several days early to avoid long wait times.