Experience the magic of the holidays at Canada’s best Christmas markets. Find out which markets across the country are particularly worth taking the time to visit over the festive season.

Across Canada, the holidays come alive with the glow of Christmas markets that blend European tradition with Canadian charm. They are wonderful spots to shop for handcrafted gifts, sample seasonal delicacies, and soak up some community spirit, especially the markets below.

Distillery Winter Village (Toronto, Ontario)

Dates: November 13, 2025 through January 4, 2026 (closed Christmas Day)

Over the holiday season, Toronto’s historic Distillery District transforms into a sparkling village filled with lights, music, and carolers’ voices. Wooden cabins sell artisan gifts and mulled wine, while the towering Christmas tree and glowing cobblestones create a romantic winter scene. There’s even a Santa’s village! It’s the perfect place to get into the festive spirit.

Ottawa Christmas Market (Ottawa, Ontario)

Dates: Nov 21–23; Nov 28–30; Dec 5–7; Dec 12–14; Dec 19–21; and Dec 26–31, 2025

At Lansdowne’s Aberdeen Plaza, the Ottawa Christmas Market brings European charm to the capital. Visitors can browse local crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and sip cider beneath glowing lights. With food stalls, a cozy bar, and all-day celebrations on New Year’s Eve that end in fireworks, it’s a family-friendly celebration that captures the warmth of the season.

Quebec City German Christmas Market (Quebec City, Quebec)

Dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025

Quebec transforms into a storybook scene as the German Christmas Market fills its cobblestone streets and the scent of gingerbread and glühwein (mulled wine) fills the air. Visitors can watch the beloved Giant Puppet Parade, meet Saint Nicholas and Krampus, or browse handmade ornaments and regional delicacies, all against the backdrop of the city’s historic and snow-dusted stone facades.

The Great Christmas Market (Montreal, Quebec)

Dates: November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026

Montreal’s Great Christmas Market illuminates the Quartier des spectacles, the city’s cultural hub, with vibrant decor and festive music. Dozens of cozy chalets line the streets during the festival, showcasing Quebec artisans, gourmet foods, and beautifully crafted gifts. Visitors can wander beneath twinkling lights, catch live performances, and warm up with mulled wine or rich hot chocolate.

Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market (Calgary, Alberta)

Dates: November 14–16, 21–23, 28–30, 2025

Every year, the International Christmas Market at Calgary’s Spruce Meadows transforms the equestrian complex into a festive wonderland featuring hundreds of vendors across indoor and covered pavilions. Artisans offer everything from decor and jewelry to gourmet food. Between fire pits, live performances, Santa visits, and a petting zoo, it’s a holiday experience that you don’t want to miss.

Banff Christmas Market (Banff, Alberta)

Dates: Nov. 20–23, Nov. 28–30, Dec. 5–7, Dec. 12–14, 2025

Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, the Banff Christmas Market combines alpine beauty with warm seasonal charm. More than 175 vendors showcase handmade gifts, winter fashion, and festive treats, while outdoor fire lounges invite visitors to linger. Families can visit Santa’s Workshop and enjoy live music at this magical mountain celebration.

Vancouver Christmas Market (Vancouver, British Columbia)

Dates: November 13 to December 24, 2025

Located on the city’s picturesque waterfront, the Vancouver Christmas Market brings a taste of old-world Europe to the West Coast. Dozens of chalet-style stalls overflow with handcrafted ornaments, artisanal gifts, and classic German fare like bratwurst. With mountain views and ocean air, it’s a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that sparkles with West Coast charm.