Why Holiday Markets Are the Heart of the Season: Unique Gifts That Matter
One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is heading to local Christmas markets. There’s something magical about strolling through festive stalls, sipping a hot drink, and uncovering treasures you won’t find at the mall. Holiday markets are more than a charming tradition—they’re a meaningful way to shop thoughtfully, support local artisans, and find unique gifts that truly stand out.
This year, instead of rushing to the nearest big-box store or scrolling through yet another holiday gift guide, why not try something different? Visit your local holiday market and shop your favorite ethical brands (like ours!). Together, we can have a dramatic impact on the economy and the kinds of values we all want to support this season.
Why Holiday Markets Matter
Holiday markets are vibrant hubs of creativity and community. When you shop at one, you’re supporting small businesses, many of which are family-run or locally owned. These makers put countless hours into crafting their products, whether it’s hand-carved ornaments, natural skincare, or beautifully knit scarves. By purchasing from them, you’re directly contributing to their livelihood and helping keep traditional crafts alive.
The impact doesn’t stop there. Money spent at local markets tends to stay in the community, boosting local economies and fostering growth. In contrast, shopping at large retailers often sends profits to corporations with little reinvestment in your area. By choosing local, you’re making a conscious decision to uplift your neighbors and contribute to a more sustainable economic system.
Unique Gifts with Heart
The gifts you find at holiday markets aren’t just products; they’re pieces of someone’s passion. These unique items carry a story—one of creativity, dedication, and care. Imagine gifting a handmade candle infused with locally sourced botanicals or a handwoven throw that adds warmth and beauty to someone’s home. These thoughtful, one-of-a-kind finds show your loved ones you’ve gone the extra mile to find something special.
Holiday markets are also an excellent way to align your shopping with the values that matter most. Whether it’s prioritizing sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, or supporting slow fashion principles, the vendors at these markets often share those commitments. Your choices reflect what you care about, making the act of giving even more meaningful.Your choices reflect what you care about, making the act of giving even more meaningful.
Support Local and Ethical Brands
Of course, holiday markets are just one way to shop mindfully. Supporting your favorite ethical brands—like ours!—also makes a significant difference. Every purchase sends a message about the type of world we want to build. When you choose brands that prioritize sustainability, fair labor practices, and thoughtful design, you’re voting with your wallet for a better future
Skip the Mall This Year
The mall can wait. This holiday season, embrace the charm, creativity, and community of local holiday markets. Celebrate the artisans and makers who pour their hearts into every item, and seek out gifts that reflect your values. And if markets aren’t your thing, remember that shopping directly from ethical brands creates ripple effects far beyond the holidays.
Together, we can make this season one of joy, thoughtfulness, and lasting impact. Let’s shop smarter and give gifts that matter.
Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs Across Canada from Nov 15-Dec 23rd.
|
Province |
City |
Market Name |
Dates |
Link |
|
Alberta |
Banff |
Banff Christmas Market |
November 14–17, 22–24, 29–December 1, 6–8 |
|
|
Alberta |
Calgary |
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market |
November 15–17, 22–24, 29–December 1 |
|
|
Alberta |
Calgary |
Art Market Craft Sale |
November 14–17 |
|
|
Alberta |
Edmonton |
Butterdome Craft Sale |
November 28–December 1 |
|
|
Alberta |
Edmonton |
All Is Bright on 124 Street |
November 16 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Vancouver |
Vancouver Christmas Market |
November 13–December 24 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Vancouver |
Circle Craft Christmas Market |
November 6–10 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Vancouver |
Got Craft? Holiday Market |
November 23–24 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Vancouver |
Portobello West Holiday Market |
November 30–December 1 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Victoria |
Out of Hand Modern Market |
November 22–24 |
|
|
British Columbia |
Kelowna |
Craft Culture Holiday Market |
December 7–8 |
|
|
Manitoba |
Winnipeg |
Winnipeg Christkindlmarkt |
November 29–December 1 |
|
|
Manitoba |
Winnipeg |
Signatures Handmade Market |
November 28–December 1 |
|
|
Manitoba |
Winnipeg |
Third + Bird Christmas Market |
November 23–24 |
|
|
New Brunswick |
Saint John |
Saint John Christmas Market |
November 15–17 |
|
|
Newfoundland and Labrador |
St. John's |
Merry Makers Market |
December 7–8 |
|
|
Nova Scotia |
Halifax |
Halifax Christmas Market (Glow Gardens) |
November 22–January 4 |
Glow Gardens |
|
Nova Scotia |
Halifax |
Craft Nova Scotia Winter Market |
November 15–17 |
|
|
Ontario |
Toronto |
Distillery Winter Village |
November 14–December 22 |
Distillery Winter Village |
|
Ontario |
Toronto |
One Of A Kind Winter Show |
November 21–December 1 |
|
|
Ontario |
Toronto |
Holiday Fair in the Square |
December 7–23 |
|
|
Ontario |
Kitchener |
Kitchener Christkindl Market |
December 5–8 |
|
|
Ontario |
Ottawa |
Ottawa Christmas Market |
November 22–December 23 |
|
|
Ontario |
Ottawa |
Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Sale |
December 5–15 |
|
|
Ontario |
Kingston |
Kingston Holiday Market |
November 29–December 1 |
|
|
Prince Edward Island |
Charlottetown |
Charlottetown Victorian Christmas Market |
November 29–December 1 |
|
|
Quebec |
Montreal |
The Great Christmas Market (Le Grand Marché de Noël) |
November 22–December 30 |
|
|
Quebec |
Montreal |
Montreal Christmas Village (Village de Noël de Montréal) |
November 28–December 22 |
|
|
Quebec |
Quebec City |
German Christmas Market (Marché de Noël Allemand de Québec) |
November 21–December 23 |
|
|
Saskatchewan |
Saskatoon |
Sundog Arts & Entertainment Faire |
November 29–December 1 |
|
|
Saskatchewan |
Regina |
Bazaart Holiday Market |
November 16 |
|
|
Saskatchewan |
Carlyle |
Carlyle Dickens Village Festival |
December 6–7 |
|
| Northwest Territoies |
Yellowknife |
Yellowknife Christmas Craft Sale | November 23–24 | Yellowknife Christmas Craft Sale |
