Toronto's Magical 2012 Christmas Market

Every year, the Distillery District in downtown Toronto is transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland. Already a trendy collective of stores, funky eateries and microbreweries, the Distillery District on Mill Street gets a makeover that Santa would be proud of. Replete with massive Christmas tree and a street stalls selling everything from gingerbread men to hot chocolate; the Christmas market is a must-see this festive season.

Toronto’s Distillery District is an old-school neighbourhood of red brick buildings that house some of the city’s best restaurants and trendiest pubs. There are also some interesting stores with an accent on the unique and unusual. Over the Christmas season, the cobbled alleys are decked with lights and a 45 foot white spruce Christmas tree is set up in the square.

Tiny stalls pop up in the back alleys to create a more European feel. When the sun sets, the party starts with various artists performing in the square including children’s choirs, carolers, Bavarian brass bands, classical organ concerts and trumpeters.

Beer and mulled wine gardens dot the route while younger guests can enjoy the fairy tale forest maze and a visit to Santa’s house. There is also a gingerbread house, storytelling and an elves’ workshop to look forward too.

Let’s not forget the shopping! The stores in the Distillery District offer a wide range of unique items for sale and their offerings will be augmented by the Christmas market stalls. This means you can do all of your Christmas shopping in one place while enjoying entertainment for the kids, live music and some delicious fare. Better still; this year’s free gift-wrapping service will have your gifts tree-ready before you leave.

This year’s Christmas Market will be raising funds for the food bank, so bring a non-perishable item to donate when you shop. Make sure this season’s Christmas shopping is fun at the Distillery District Christmas Market.

Watch the video here.