Things to do and eat at the 2017 Toronto Christmas Market

by Jennifer D’Agostino

The Toronto Christmas Market at the Distillery Historic District is one of the biggest events of the holiday season in Toronto. Mathew Rosenblatt of the Toronto Christmas Market shared some of his favourite things to do and eat at this year’s market.

“We want people to experience the Christmas magic they imagined as a child,” Mathew says. “There’s so much to see and so many memories just waiting to be created! There’s something for everyone at the Toronto Christmas Market. From carollers to Santa and the elves, to hundreds of unique gift items – and, of course, mulled wine!”

The market kicks off November 16 and runs until December 23, 2017. Admission is $6 on weekends starting at 5 pm on Friday and free on weekdays! Buy tickets here! [Photo courtesy of the Toronto Christmas Market]

The Toronto Christmas Market is bringing the bright lights of the season to the Distillery Historic District this year, with the launch of a light tunnel. “This year we have a 100-foot light tunnel, adorned with exactly one trillion lights,” says Mathew. “It’s going to be the Instagram shot of the year.” Be sure to charge your phone before heading out!

Known as roasted cheese, Raclette offers a savoury treat for guests of the Toronto Christmas Market. This treat originates from the mountains of Switzerland and will be melted over rosemary baby potatoes.

“The Toronto Christmas Market has an incredible selection of European street food – from Oktoberfest sausage to schnitzel, to ooey gooey poutine!” Meat lovers can find their fix at the Oktoberfest Grill. The menu includes Hungarian sausage, German bratwurst and farmer’s sausage. Everything is grilled over a giant open coal fire pit.

Why not get some of your Christmas shopping done while you peruse the Market. Local vendors are on site offering items like unique crafts from the Netherlands, cozy pajamas, Christmas movie memorabilia and more!

Bring the kiddies, because Santa is going to be onsite every day! A professional photographer will be there Tuesdays and on weekends. You can also bring your pets along to get a photo with the jolly man himself.

Treat yourself to all the delectable sweets available at the Market this year. Vendors like Maple Leaf Fudge, Eat My Shortbread and The Gingerbread House will be showcasing their sweet treats! “My favourite treat is the Maple Bacon Doughnut,” says Mathew. “Arrive hungry, and leave with a stomach full of warmth and happiness.”

There is plenty of live music to get you into the festive spirit! From bluegrass to jazz and carollers, you can expect ongoing performances of all the Christmas classics. There will also be an interactive sing along and a performance by Santa’s elves!

The Beer Gardens has been a fan favourite since its inception at the Toronto Christmas Market. Popular restaurants like Pure Spirits, Cluny, Archeo Trattoria and Mill St. are serving up traditional classics like mulled wine, turkey legs and hot toddies.

A little bit of love goes a long way at this year’s Christmas Market. This year, the Market introduces the Giving Pantry, where guests are invited to bring a can of food destined for the Daily Bread Food Bank. “It’s a place where kissing under the mistletoe meets giving back to those in need during the holidays,” explains Mathew. “Intrigued? Bring down your canned goods and see what it’s all about!”

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