Where to find Ontario's best Christmas markets.

It’s time to put on your most original and cozy Christmas sweater and get into the holiday spirit!  Christmas Markets across Ontario are gearing up for a busy season, with many of them opening this weekend.

Below are seven markets to choose from where you can purchase gifts for everyone on your list – running from now until early December.

This weekend also marks Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade on Sunday November 18^th starting at Christie Pitts at 12:30 p.m. and ending at St. Lawrence Market – the perfect event to get you thinking about the holidays.

Muskoka Arts & Crafts Christmas Show & Sale.

Take a road trip to Bracebridge for their 37^th annual Christmas Show with 27 merry exhibitors selling holiday treasures. These unique hand made gifts include pottery, paintings, jewelry, soapstone sculptures, photography, knitting, candle holders, and even wooden boats of Muskoka’s historic steamships – the perfect gift for the boat lover on your list. After you are done shopping you can explore the pretty season in Muskoka.

When: November 16 – 18, 2018

Toronto Christmas Market.

If you don’t already call Toronto home, head to the city and shop till you drop at the historic Distillery District for the Toronto Christmas Market. World class vendors will be selling exclusive items including fun stocking stuffers, fine candles, wooden wonders, movie memorabilia, hand blown glass ornaments, musical snow globes, treasures from Eastern Europe and the Netherlands, and even German potato pancakes.  There will also be entertainment and many dining options on site. If you want to save the $6 admission fee, go during the week or Fridays before 5:00 p.m. If holiday shopping crowds don’t bother you, join the fun on weekends and purchase your tickets in advance online.

When: November 15 – December 23, 2018 (Closed Mondays).

Winter Marketplace.

Take a road trip to beautiful Queen Victoria Park in Niagara Falls for their festive Winter Marketplace that spans two weekends in November. Niagara Parks will be host to outdoor holiday themed cabins packed with craft vendors, local food, and activities. There will also be family friendly games, activities, entertainment, and a 30-foot tree. The colourful tree lighting ceremony kicks off this event on November 16^th at 7:00 p.m.

When: Two Weekends: November 16 – 25, 2018.

Blue Mountain Christmas Gift Show.

There are over 100 vendors at Blue Mountains Christmas Gift Show including artisans, jewelry, crafts, home décor, treats, and of course holiday items. This picture perfect town is a cute place to visit to get you in the holiday spirit, since once the snow starts falling it’s all about winter sports and ski season at Blue Mountain.

Ottawa Farmer’s Christmas Market.

With four December weekends to choose from and over 120 vendors selling locally grown products, unique gifts, arts and crafts, and stocking stuffers you are all set with a trip to Ottawa’s holiday market. There will be live music and a children’s craft corner at this family friendly market happening at Aberdeen Pavilion in Lansdowne Park. You can also stock up on fresh local food for your festive meals.

When: Four weekends: December 1 – 23, 2018

Cambridge Christmas Market.

Cambridge City Hall and Market Square make up this festive holiday market selling exclusive gifts and seasonal food from local artisans. There are also live choir performances, entertainers, cookie decorating, ceramic workshops, and even pet photos – check dates and times for each. The Cambridge Farmer’s Market will be selling local produce on Saturday December 8, 2018.

When: December 6 – December 9, 2018.

Christkindl Market.

Christkindl Market is a well-known German Christmas market in Kitchener heading into its 22^nd year. Explore the decorated outdoor huts and eating stands where you can dine on authentic foods and shop for gifts. There are over 100 vendors to search for the perfect gift while you listen to choirs, bands, and dance groups playing in the background. Opening ceremonies start on Thursday December 6 at 5:45 p.m. and include a candlelight procession, bells, trumpets and the Grand Philharmonic Choir. Arrive ready to sing!

When: December 6 – 9, 2018.

Did we miss your favourite Christmas Market? Let us know in the comments.