‘Tis the season! As soon as Halloween—still my children’s favorite holiday—comes to an end, it seems like the entire world shifts into full-blown Christmas mode. Retailers big and small start vying for our attention with advertisements, social media influencers bombard us with “must-haves,” and spam fills our inboxes. While I understand that this time of year is crucial for businesses, I also believe it’s important to support our local retailers.
Living in a small community used to mean limited shopping options unless you were willing to make the trek to a larger city. But in 2024, with so much holiday shopping happening online, that’s no longer necessary. And yet, there’s something special about venturing out to local holiday markets. These gatherings offer more than just shopping—they’re a chance to connect with your community, enjoy a festive atmosphere, and find unique gifts for everyone on your list.
Local holiday markets are brimming with artisanal crafts, handmade goods, and products from small businesses—all wrapped in a friendly, social environment that often features live entertainment. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best holiday markets in the area. Each one is worth a visit, whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or just looking to soak in the seasonal cheer.
Local Holiday Markets
Collingwood Christmas Market
📍 Hurontario Street, Collingwood
🗓 Fridays: December 1, 8, and 15
⏰ 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Stroll along Hurontario Street, illuminated by beautiful light installations, and explore a range of local vendors with extended store hours. Enjoy live strolling entertainment, from hula hoopers to stilt walkers and jugglers, as you shop your way through Collingwood’s holiday spirit.
Nottawa General Store Holiday Market
📍 Nottawa General Store, Nottawa
🗓 Saturday, December 7
⏰ 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
A cozy holiday market featuring local crafts, unique gifts, and festive treats. A great stop for anyone looking for a small-town Christmas vibe.
OUR HOMES Christmas Market
📍 Alpine Ski Club, 17-242 Arrowhead Rd., The Blue Mountains
🗓 Saturday, November 23: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🗓 Sunday, November 24: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
With over 100 exhibitors, this market is a treasure trove of Christmas crafts, home décor, fashion, wellness products, jewelry, tasty treats, and more. Don’t miss the chance to win fabulous door prizes, including a mattress from Tom The Dreamer and two Scandinave Spa passes.
Meaford Christmas Market – A Traditional Outdoor Market
📍 12 Nelson St. East, Meaford
🗓 November 28–December 1
⏰ Thursday & Friday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
⏰ Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
⏰ Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the festive charm of Meaford’s outdoor Christmas market. Delight in wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, fire bowls, and Christmas trees while shopping for the area’s finest local foods and handmade gifts. The market also features live entertainment, creating a magical, inclusive atmosphere that celebrates community and diversity.
Creemore Christmas Market
📍 Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St. E., Creemore
🗓 Saturdays: December 2, 9, and 16
⏰ 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Creemore Farmers’ Market transforms into a Christmas market, offering an array of local products, crafts, and holiday cheer. A perfect weekend outing for anyone looking to shop small and support local.
Wasaga Beach Christmas Market
📍 RecPlex, 1724 Mosley Street, Wasaga Beach
🗓 Saturday, November 23, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
🗓 Sunday, November 24, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Explore an indoor market featuring a variety of vendors, including candy shops, handcrafted ornaments, pottery, wood crafts, knitted goods, baked treats, and jewelry. Coinciding with the family-friendly Funderland event on November 24, this market makes for a festive weekend outing.
This holiday season, consider stepping away from the online bustle and visiting a local holiday market. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind treasures, but you’ll also support the heart of our community—the small businesses that make our towns special. Happy holidays and happy shopping!
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