6 Christmas markets across Canada to visit
6 Christmas Markets 2014 + menu
Vancouver Christmas Market, Nov 22 - Dec 24
In the heart of Vancouver, the Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza is transformed into a quaint little European village. The Vancouver Christmas Market is a magical haven for both adults and children. The unique Kid's Market allows kids to make their own Christmas gifts, meet Santa Claus, partake in a scavenger hunt and ride on a Christmas carousel. Adults can take in the festive atmosphere while snacking on European delights such as poffertjes (Dutch mini pancakes), borscht, fruity stollen and sip on Glühwein – hot spiced fruit wine. Admission tickets can be purchased online here.
Toronto Christmas Market, Nov 28 - Dec 21
Considered one of the world's 10 best holiday markets by Fodor's Travel, the Toronto Christmas Market at the historic Distillery District combines old world charm with modern-day attractions. Marked by the festival's iconic giant Christmas Tree, festival-goers can check out local, handcrafted products, listen to carollers, visit charming beer gardens and sip mulled wine by outside fire pits – all in a vintage setting. Free admission.
Montreal Christmas Market, Nov 29 - Dec 21)
Just across the river from Montreal is the Marché de Noël, Old Longueuil's annual Christmas market. Decorated wooden huts house everything indulgent we love about Quebec – ice cider, tourtiere, duck and fois gras, chocolate truffles... need we say more? The French-speaking folks add to the ambience of it all – you might even feel like you're in Europe! Free admission.
Christkindl Market, Dec 4 - 7
The City of Kitchener, about 1 hour outside of Toronto, is known for its deep roots in German tradition. In fact, the city was called the "Town/City of Berlin" up until 1918. Home to the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany, the streets of Kitchener also comes alive in December for its 4-day Christkindl Market – Canada's original Festival of German Christmas. The event recreates the sights, sounds, smells and spirit of Christmas festivals found across Germany – think Belgium waffles, German sausages and schnitzel! Free admission.
Fort York Frost Fair, Dec 6 - 7
Step back in time for some shopping, entertainment, food, fun and games – 18th and 19th century style! Toronto's historic Fort York's Frost Fair is a peek into Christmas past. Stroll through the historic buildings where merchants, dressed in period clothing, will be selling their heritage-inspired wares, and taste old world flavours by sipping on hot apple cider, Heritage Hot Chocolate and nibbling on baked potato and traditional British sausage on a stick. Warm yourself by the bonfire or the cheerful warmth of the open hearth in the Officers' Mess Kitchen and stay for a demonstration of Georgian-era cooking. Regular admission applies.
The Stop CFC's Holiday Farmers Market, Dec 14 & 21
The Stop Community Food Centre and Steam Whistle are partnering up in Toronto this winter for the Holiday Farmers' Market. Held indoors in Steam Whistle's historic brewery, this daytime event is is a great way to stock up on tasty and seasonal Ontario produce, meats, cheeses and preserves. Plus, market-goers will receive a free brewery tour with any purchase. Free admission.rnrn
Christmas Market Menu
Even if you can't make it out to any Christmas Markets this year, we've got you covered. This menu is reminiscent of food available at traditional German markets and easy to make at home!
Christmas cocktail and roasted chestnuts
Crispy schnitzel
Viennese cookies
Mulled wine recipe with clementines
GET CHATELAINE IN YOUR INBOX!
Subscribe to our newsletters for our very best stories, recipes, style and shopping tips, horoscopes and special offers.