12 must-visit holiday markets this season in southern Ontario

It’s the most magical time of year! A season for sipping warm drinks, humming along to classic Christmas tunes and hunting for the perfect gifts to surprise your loved ones. If you’re looking to kick-start your holiday shopping while supporting local artisans, these festive markets across southern Ontario have you covered.

Here are some pop-up events worth checking out:

Winter Wonderland Market

Hosted by the Youth2Action program, this event features young entrepreneurs showcasing their businesses and offering unique holiday gifts at affordable prices.

Date: Nov. 23
Where: 500 Ray Lawson Blvd., Brampton (Susan Fennell Sportsplex)
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Run the World Holiday Market

Support small, female-owned businesses at this holiday market within Square One Shopping Centre.

Date: Nov. 24 – Dec. 24
Where: 100 City Centre Dr., Mississauga (2nd Floor, across from H&M)
Time: Open during mall hours

Cranberry Christmas Market

Mississauga Arts Council’s annual curated holiday market features over 30 local artisans, craft and food vendors. Enjoy festive entertainment, gift wrapping (by donation to support Epilepsy South Central Ontario) and free admission with a donation of nonperishable food items for The Compass Food Bank.

Date: Dec. 7
Where: 161 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga (Clarke Memorial Hall)
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m

HVC Happy Holiday Market

The largest vintage market in Hamilton returns to the historic Cotton Factory. Featuring over 60 vintage curators and makers, this market is the perfect opportunity to support small, local businesses this holiday season. Enjoy food and drinks from The Hearty Hooligan, music by DJ Duo A Side B Side Project and participate in the Hamilton YWCA Toy Drive by donating new, unwrapped toys for children in need.

Date: Nov. 23
Where: 270 Sherman Ave N., Hamilton (The Cotton Factory)
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hess Village Winter Market

Get ready for two weekends of festive fun, with tons of vendors and holiday activities for the whole family. Enjoy appearances by Santa and Elsa, face painting, carolers and more.

Dates:

• Nov. 23–24
• Nov. 30–Dec. 1

Where: 30 Hess St. S., Hamilton
Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Market hours)

Credit Valley Artisans Christmas Sale

Find unique handcrafted gifts at this annual holiday market featuring the work of four guilds: potters and sculptors, stained glass artisans, heritage hand weavers and spinners. Browse through themed rooms filled with original creations, all while enjoying festive decorations and holiday cheer.

Date: Nov. 23  and Nov. 24
Where: 183 Main St. S., Georgetown (Cedarvale Park Cottage)
Time:

• Nov. 23—10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Nov. 24 —10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Christmas Market in the Glen and Kind Vibe Kids Children’s Market

This market highlights young entrepreneurs showcasing their creativity, skills and talents, alongside financial literacy training for participants. Held during the popular Christmas season in the Glen Market, visitors can enjoy local vendors, food and festive fun nestled along Main Street.

Date: Dec. 1
Where: Main Street, Glen Williams (Glen Fitness Studio parking lot)
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Santa at the Fairgrounds 2024

The Halton Agricultural Society’s beloved Santa at the Fairgrounds event returns for its third year, offering families the chance to shop local vendors, take photos with Santa Morgan and enjoy festive activities like roasting marshmallows by outdoor fire pits.

Date: Dec. 8 (and additional dates on Dec. 7, 14, 15, 21, and 22)
Where: 136 Robert St., Milton (Milton Fairgrounds)
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

28th Annual Kerr Village Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

Celebrate 28 years of holiday tradition with the Kerr Village Christmas Tree Lighting! Enjoy a Holiday Pop-Up Market, live musical entertainment and festive appearances by Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves. The event concludes with a tree-lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.

Date: Dec. 3
Where: 173 Kerr St., Oakville (Westwood Park)
Time: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Oakville Christmas Market

Celebrate the holiday season with unique gifts, handcrafted items, festive decor and delicious seasonal treats. Shop from local vendors while enjoying a magical holiday atmosphere with friends and family.

Date: Dec. 8
Where: 79 Jones St., Oakville
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Classic Holiday Market

Support small businesses at Durham Region’s busiest mall during this annual holiday market. Held in the upper level of the former Sears building at the Oshawa Centre, the event features local coffee shops, bakers, guest appearances, live music and more festive fun.

Date:

• Nov. 23–24
• Nov. 30–Dec. 1
• Dec. 7–8
• Dec. 14–15

Where:  419 King St. W., Oshawa (Upper level of the old Sears building)
Time:

• Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sundays: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Parkwood’s Winter Fest Vendor Market

Start or finish your holiday shopping while enjoying festive tunes and apple cider in the Parkwood Gift Shop. This event supports Parkwood and showcases a variety of local artisans during the Winter Fest & Friends & Family Holiday Sale.

Date: Nov. 23
Where: 270 Simcoe St. N., Oshawa (Parkwood Estate)
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.