5 charming Christmas markets to visit in Ontario communities

Those looking for a fun Christmas activity while possibly getting some holiday shopping done, may want to check out some of these Ontario markets.

From Germany-style Christmas markets to heritage French village re-creations, Ontario has a range of ways to celebrate the season.

Most of these events could be a day trip and a great way to escape the city.

Here are five Christmas markets in Ontario:

Christmas on the Bay

Georgian Bay’s largest outdoor Christmas market is in the heart of charming historic Meaford.

The four-day festival features live music, a tree lighting,  and vendor stalls featuring locally produced and crafted foods, beverages and wares. The Meaford Kinsmen’s Club Santa Claus Parade is also held during the festival time on Saturday at 5:15 p.m.

The event is on Dec. 4-7 at 12 Nelson St. E, Meaford.

Village Noel Temiskaming

Experience the ambiance of a New France village during Christmastime in this two-day outdoor market.

People can try heritage games, watch craftspeople, musicians, dancers, lumberjacks and historical personalities at this Northern Ontario Christmas village at the New Liskeard Fairgrounds. There is also a Farmer’s Market and downtown shops to visit.

The event Nov. 20–22 at 10 May Street South, Temiskaming Shores.

Christkindl Market

For four days in December, the streets of Kitchener transform into a traditional festival of Christmas that dates back 700 years. Known as Christkindl Market, this event recreates the sights, sounds, smells and spirit of the Christmas festivals found across Germany.

Vendors sell gifts, crafts, mulled wine and soft pretzels. Visitors can watch blacksmith demonstrations and take selfies with various folklore characters.

The market has been named one of Ontario’s “Top 100” festivals and events.

This market is on Dec. 4–7 at 200 King St. W., Kitchener.

Markham Home for the Holidays

Over 130 exhibitors will be in three buildings at the 38th annual Home for the Holidays market at the Markham Fairgrounds.

Products include artisan ceramics, stained glass, jewellery, gourmet cookies, jams and chocolates.

Strolling Victorian carollers add to the ambiance and you may even see Santa himself while you shop.

Tickets are $14 for adults at the gate or online in advance.

The event is on Nov. 21–23 at 10801 McCowan Rd., Markham.

Cambridge Holiday Market

Downtown Cambridge celebrates the Yuletide season with its award-winning holiday market, first launched in 2012.

Last year, nearly 8,000 visitors explored products from over 100 local artisans, crafters and makers over four floors of City Hall and the Cambridge Centre for the Arts.

This year, shoppers can catch holiday music, a fire pit lounge, visits from Santa an Mrs. Claus and food trucks.

The market is on Dec. 5–7 at 50 Dickson St., Cambridge.

Lead photo: Ross Sneddon