2015 Toronto Christmas Market: 8 Reasons To Visit

Glimmering lights, brick-paved streets powdered with snow, the smell of firewood burning…It really doesn’t get more magical than the 2015 Toronto Christmas Market. Which is why a visit to the 28-day festival is my absolute favourite holiday tradition. Ranked as one of the best Christmas markets in the world, the Distillery District transforms into a Dickensian dream. Here are eight reasons you should explore the internationally-acclaimed pedestrian village during the holidays this year…

1. Santa’s Waiting. Yup, for you. Pop by his house, sit on his lap and feel like you’re five all over again.

2. Devour Traditional European Street Food. It’s the time of year to stuff your face with delish goodies and there’s no shortage of that at this market. From the Christmas Dinner Grilled Cheese and Oktoberfest Sausage to the Wienerschnitzel Sandwich and Das Kartoffelhaus Tornado Potato…

3. Cross Off Items On Your Xmas List. You’ll find unique toys, handmade ornaments and tasty treats at the 40 European-style wooden cabins that dot the market.

4. Pucker Up. This is your chance to share a kiss with that special someone under the 14-foot tall ‘Under the Mistletoe’ heart-shaped sculpture. Aww.

5. Sip On A Cup Of Mulled Wine. Drink and be merry with new friends and old as you huddle over the outdoor fire pits.

6. Belt Out Christmas Carols. Or just watch the over 300 performances (including carolers, choirs, dancers and brass bands). Oh, and if you can, take part in the Mill Street World Caroling Challenge on December 20th!

7. Try Fun, Holiday Cocktails. Pop inside the many bars and restaurants in the Distillery District to warm up and try something new, like this Litchi Bleu Martini with Cotton Candy at Cluny.

8. Snap Your Festive Photos. The perfect backdrop awaits for your holiday profile pics. The gigantic 54-foot Norway Spruce is decorated with over 18,000 lights and ornaments which will make for the prettiest social shares.

The 2015 Toronto Christmas Market runs from November 20th to December 20th. Admission is free Tuesdays to Fridays and $5.00 per person (incl. HST) on Saturdays and Sundays (buy tickets here). It really is a special holiday experience so dress warm, grab your friends/fam and head to the Distillery this season. Oh, and if you do, make sure to tag your social shares with #LoveTCM for a chance to win $1000 from the organizers. Hope to see you there!