Each year from mid November to late December, the Toronto Christmas Market captivates and draws the entire city to the heart of the historic distillery district. Cool, cozy, lined with shimmering lights, artisan boutiques and cobblestone roads, the Toronto Christmas Market feels as if you are walking through a time capsule of the 1800s.
And each year, when I arrive at the market, almost without failure, it takes my breath away.
Wherever your feet decide to take you at the Christmas Market, whether it be to a vendor, an exhibit or a performance, there is an unmistakeable presence of community. And this year, as it goes every year, the Christmas Market began with the raising of a 50-foot native Ontarian Christmastree donated by Forest Ontario. It took a year to find this tree and a team of hand-selected decorators were chosen to dress it in lights and ribbons. Most visitors and passerby might not be privy to information like this, but it’s knowing this that makes the Christmas Market all that more worth visiting year after year.
The Market also offers about 400 free performances, ranging from singers, bands and dancers, with each day of the week celebrating a different theme. And, of course, Santa’s Elves will be returning for another year, performing for the entire stay of the festival in Santa’s Elves Sing-Along.
Beth Edney’s magical 100 foot light tunnel is back for its second year! This tunnel is one of the top 5 rated in Toronto during the holidays and inside, you can find a bar offering warm beverages and snacks.
Lastly, but certainly not least – there’s the dozens of gourmet food vendors scattered all across the market for your convenience, mostof which return every year as tradition. Some favourites include: Eva’s Original Chimneys, Good GrievesShortbread, Holey Dough, Santa’s BBQ, Truffle Frites and Nutt Bavarian. No matter where I go, the smell of freshly baked goods, follows me.
My fondness though, goes beyond the stunning lights and the sweet smell of Eva’s Original Chimneys. It goes beyond, even, the brilliant Victorian architecture of Torontonian David Roberts Jr.
It’s the stories of hard work behind each of the beloved vendors, exhibits, and performances.
It’s the awkward first dates, happy families, and laughing children.
It’s the uninterrupted feeling of home.
Krystal Naval
Please note that opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views and values of The Blank Page.
Photograph by Alisa Anton
