There’s a new free winter market in Toronto spanning this entire iconic block

St. Lawrence Market has a brand new winter market lining the entire block with everything you could dream of for a perfect day out this December. The inaugural Winter Market is open now and will take over Market Street until Dec. 23, 2024.

The best part? It’s free to attend! Get ready to shop one-of-a-kind gifts and specialty products while indulging in delicious seasonal food and drinks.

Your next winter day out is ahead.

St. Lawrence Winter Market

The Winter Market is open Thursdays through Sundays along the pedestrianized Market Street between Front Street and The Esplanade.

“We’ve hosted various markets and programs throughout the summer season along Market Street, but this is the first time we’ve animated the street in the winter! The community was definitely a driving force in making this happen,” Daniel Picheca, Manager of St. Lawrence Market tells Curiocity.

Picheca notes that for years now the market has received requests for more winter festivities and this felt like the perfect fit.

“We’re aiming to make this a new annual holiday tradition for the community. Each year, we plan to expand and grow the market, offering even more festive fun and experiences for everyone to enjoy,” Picheca continues.

The inaugural market will have some exciting highlights including:

• Free photos with Santa Claus: Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. in support of Spadina-Fort York Community Care, visitors are invited to bring a new toy, non-perishable food items or a cash donation
• Live entertainment: There will be live performances every day of the market including stilt walkers, choirs, carolers and even opera singers
• Local vendors 
• Seasonal food and drinks

Other pop-ups at St. Lawrence Market

The Winter Market isn’t the only thing popping up! According to Picheca, there are a couple of other special pop-ups happening at St. Lawrence Market.

“We’ve partnered with the Three Sisters Market to host an Indigenous artist pop-up market from Dec. 7 to 23 in the lower level of the St. Lawrence Market South building.”

In addition to the rotating vendor lineup, there will be drop-in beading classes on Dec. 10 and Dec. 19 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The Sunday Variety Market will also continue at the Temporary Market on 125 The Esplanade on Dec. 8, 15, and 22, offering a lineup of fantastic vintage goods and other unique items.

I’ll be checking out The Winter Market ASAP, see you there, Toronto.

St. Lawrence Winter Market

When: Thursday to Sunday from now until Dec. 23, 2024, from noon to 7 p.m. (Thursdays & Fridays) & 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturdays & Sundays)
Where: Market Street from Front Street to The Esplanade
Cost: Free admission