I visited the Christmas Market for the first time last year and wondered why I had been holding out on myself for so long. If you enjoy the traditions and coziness of the holiday season, the Christmas Market will be well worth your travels to the big city. I truly believe you don't have to drop a lot of money to get the most out of the Christmas Market (other than for some food and of course parking/or transit fare). This is an event where you can have a great night simply just by walking around the cobblestone roads of the Distillery District, browsing the vendors/unique shops and taking in all the Christmas sights while sipping on some hot cocoa.
Walking around the Distillery District:
Just exploring the Distillery District on it's own makes for a fun time, but add in the Christmas theme to this historical little area and you feel as though you have been transported to an old European Christmas wonderland. You will even forget that you're east of Downtown Toronto for a couple hours! And it is always nice to temporarily escape your reality. The brick-paved streets of the Distillery District are pedestrian and cyclist friendly, restricting general driving to outside the district's centre. Additionally, you will see a ton of interesting industrial architecture from the Victorian era. The district is home to many unique independent businesses that are typically shops, cafes and restaurants. Overall, these businesses tend to be very eclectic and creative in personality, celebrating the arts, culture and history of the district. Marrying classic with modern, the Distillery District makes the perfect backdrop for Christmas festival.
Things to do at the Christmas Market:
With clear lights strung all above, gingerbread like booths and a 45 ft White Spruce Christmas tree right in the centre, you will immediately be put in the Christmas mood! As stated earlier, simply walking around and taking in the atmosphere is mighty fun in and of itself. However, there is a lot more to do than just that!
Depending on the day you go, there are many different events going on. Watch out for the scheduled live music during the evenings, ranging in genre from jazz to classical. Further, there are multiple caroling sessions held everyday in which the carolers don old-fashioned costumes. Beyond music, there is always live European dance performances to be seen, again ranging in genre and origin.
If you visit the market during the morning/daytime, more children oriented events take place such as Santa's Elves Sing-Along and Storytelling Time.
Food & Beverages:
There are many cordoned off "lounges" and beer gardens to enjoy European style beverages and holiday drinks. Cozy up in front of the crackling bon fires and enjoy a mulled wine, a popular staple at the Christmas Market. If you're not one for mulled wine, there are plenty of other libations to suit your fancy. Specialty beer, rum, cocktails and wine from Europe and Ontario are also served at the various Christmas Market lounges. From chocolate covered bacon to veal schnitzel, there are many food vendors and shops open for something yummy to eat! The opportunities for food choices are abundant.
Important Christmas Market Details:
When: November 29th - December 15th
Hours: Weekends: 10am - 9pm
Weekdays: 12pm - 9pm
Where: Refer to this link for directions and transportation suggestions
*For more information, be sure to visit Lowe's Toronto Christmas Market web site
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