12 Dec 2022
Mulled wine, nostalgic carols, twinkling lights and fir trees dusted in snow – Canada's holiday markets are the definition of festive cheer.
For Australians holidaying in Canada, a community market is the perfect way to connect with welcoming locals, pick up a unique, hand-crafted souvenir and wrap up the year with an overwhelming feeling of hope, joy and goodwill.
Read on for some of the best from coast to coast:
Magic in Montreal, Québec
A magical journey awaits you in the Quartier des spectacles on Sainte-Catherine Street at The Great Montréal Christmas Market where around 30 chalets of local and regional artisans show off their wares, while a fine selection of gourmet stations serve up holiday treats to delight locals and visitors alike.
Don't miss the renowned Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy for local products (foie gras, cider, maple products), a tavern serving fragrant mulled wine, and a Savoyard chalet where you can relax and warm up chilly fingers and toes. New this year, the market features a "boulegalow", a brilliant elf house that will enchant children of all ages.
Out of the ordinary in the Yukon
For out-of-this-world gifts, the Yukon is your north star. To make your holiday season as unique as possible, stop by the 12 Days of Christmas Fireweed Community Market for high-quality, Yukon-made arts and crafts featuring 50 vendors. You'll also find farmstead wares and homespun body care products, plus tasty goodies like home-baked pies and preserves to eat or gift. Located at the modern Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre in Whitehorse, the market also includes daily live music. Want more? Check out the Yúk'e Arts Market and the Spruce Bog Boutique for more festive goodies. Click here to meet some of the friendly 2022 makers you'll find at the markets this year.
Jingle bells in Calgary
Each year, the Calgary Farmers' Market is transformed into a holiday wonderland with extra artisans and merchants, musicians and entertainers, photos with Santa, tea with Mrs. Claus and a heard of friendly reindeer. Take a selfie with the Grinch, who takes time out of his busy schedule to meet the happy market-goers.
German markets in Vancouver
Inspired by Germany's traditional outdoor markets, the Vancouver Christmas Market is authentic and iconic. Warm up with a hot drink (vegan eggnog, anyone?), sit on the carousel, or indulge in delicious treats in the artisan huts. There's live music, beer and pretzels, and not-your-usual wares. Located on the downtown waterfront and open late, it's easy to add a stop-in to your urban evening out on the town.
Holiday spirit in Ottawa
Get into the holiday spirit in Ontario at Ottawa's European-style Christmas market—the perfect place for great food, warm drinks, traditional kiosks and special gifts. Located in the Aberdeen Square in Canada's capital city, surrounded by snow-capped heritage buildings and wooden chalets, the Ottawa Christmas Market is lit by thousands of lights and sparkling decorations, featuring holiday entertainment, local flavours, and, of course, Santa's Village for the little ones.
Merry makers in Quidi Vidi, Newfoundland and Labrador
Quidi Vidi Studios is hosting Merry Makers Markets weekends in December leading up to Christmas, with each weekend featuring new vendors offering everything from home spun woollies to blown-glass gifts and artisan chocolates. Meet the creative makers of Newfoundland and Labrador and browse their eclectic wares.
