The much anticipated Newmarket Farmers' Market holiday market at the downtown community centre attracted hundreds of shoppers this weekend.
Holiday markets, fairs and bazaars continue next weekend:
Aurora Christmas Market: The first weekend of Aurora's annual Christmas market runs from Friday, Dec. 2 to Sunday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 9:30 p.m. each night. This is an outdoor market at the Aurora Town Park. There are a number of local vendors, live entertainment, and festive workshops in the neighbouring Armoury. There is also a time each night to meet Santa. Admission to the market is free, but some of the workshops require registration online. The festivities kick off on Dec. 2 at 5:15 p.m. with the town's Christmas tree lighting.
Newmarket Legion Christmas Bazaar & Craft Sale: The Ladies Auxiliary of Branch 426 is hosting its annual Christmas sale Saturday, Dec. 3. There will be baked goods, knitted gifts, holiday decorations, Legion merchandise, and local vendors. There is also a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. All proceeds will support veterans and the community. Doors open at 10 a.m.
Christmas Craft Show: The seventh annual Christmas craft show on Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Newmarket Community Centre. There will be more than 60 local crafters and artisans, as well as a Christmas cafe, music, prizes and the opportunity to write a Christmas card for a senior.
Pickering College Holiday Boutique: The private school in Newmarket is opening its doors on Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a holiday boutique and café. Vendors will be located throughout the historic campus featuring Christmas décor, art, pottery, baked goods, skin care products, handmade goods, jewelry, home décor, clothing, accessories and more. You can also enjoy lunch or some treats and festive music while you shop. Admission is free and parking is available on campus.
St. Andrew's College Christmas Market: The St. Andrew's College Parents Guild is holding a Christmas Market in Aurora from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4. There will be seasonal decor, fresh floral arrangements, one-of-a-kind jewelry and gifts, stocking stuffers, luxury bags and clothes, and specialty bags and treats. It is being held in Staunton Gallery.
Richmond Hill Merry Marketplace: The Merry Marketplace features a local artisan market, live entertainment, food concessions, contests and activities Saturdays until Dec. 17 from 4 to 9 p.m. at Richmond Green Park.
Niemi Christmas Market: The Niemi Family Farm's annual Christmas market runs on weekends throughout November and December. The farm, located at 18463 Highway 48 in Mount Albert, is transformed into Christmas land with bonfires and smores, the Polar Express that takes visitors on a ride to see the animals, Santa in his workshop, and a Christmas market of vendors. Tickets are required and can be booked online. The market is open Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 20, 21, and 22.
The Distillery Winter Village: Toronto's popular distillery district is once again welcoming guests to its festive winter village this year. Along with the local shops and restaurants in the area there will also be vendor cabins featuring a number of unique artisans. Tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4 p.m. but all other times you can access the village free of charge. The winter village is open to Dec. 31.
Festive Nights at Brooks Farm: Visitors are invited to experience the season of lights at Brooks Farms, at 122 Ashworth Rd., Mount Albert. The festive event features an enchanted forest, holiday displays, live music, a bonfire with marshmallows, holiday characters, a storytime wagon ride, a craft market with local artisans, gifts for the kids, festive foods and Santa. Tickets are required and can be bought online. Festive Nights runs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays after 5 p.m. to Dec. 18 with two extra nights on Dec. 22 and 23.
—With files from Elizabeth Keith and Debora Kelly
