Canada's Most Enchanting Christmas Markets

Canada, with its snow-covered mountains, dense pine forests, and charming light-strung towns, is the perfect place for Christmas.

Christmas is secretly one of our favorite times to welcome our guests to Canada. In addition to the expected wonder of snowy peaks and vast, frozen lakes, there are pockets of holiday spirit everywhere you look. And, if you find time between your winter activities, we think the Christmas markets in Canada are the perfect way to celebrate.

So, to share the best ways to experience the holiday season in Canada, our travel experts delved into the enchanting world of these markets.

We've selected the seven best Canadian Christmas markets for their offerings, events, and destinations — all highly important for cultivating festive spirit.

Here, there is no shortage of charming wooden stalls, artisanal products, and local goods. But, alongside a mug of glühwein (traditional German mulled wine) to warm your hands and the sound of carols filling the air, you'll also find truly outstanding winter backdrops.

Credit: Destination Toronto, GouvQc / Ghyslene Lablack

7 Best Christmas Markets in Canada

For a combination of attractions and locations, the best Christmas markets in Canada are:

• Quebec City German Christmas Market, Quebec City
• Banff Christmas Market, Banff
• Toronto Christmas Market, Toronto
• Vancouver Christmas Market, Vancouver
• Great Montreal Christmas Market, Montreal
• Spruce Meadows Christmas Market, Calgary
• 12 Days of Christmas Fireweed Community Market, Whitehorse

Let's explore each and help you find your perfect festive market for your trip to Canada. Discover a picture-perfect Christmas framed by the Great White North's iconic snowy season.

Credit: GouvQc / Ghyslene Lablack

1. Quebec City German Christmas Market

2025 dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025

Where to find it: at 5 different sites across Old Quebec, including Jardins de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, Rue Saint-Jean, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral

In Quebec City, you'll find the best Christmas Market in Canada. Spread across five different sites in the heart of Old Quebec, it draws visitors with its authentically European atmosphere (easily aided by the city's own French-Canadian elegance) and utter charm.

Already iconic streets — Rue Saint-Jean and Rue du Petit Champlain, to name a few — are doused with decorations. Lights arc overhead, Christmas trees line the streets, outdoor ice rinks are hidden in city squares, and charming boutiques glow a soft and inviting gold wherever you look.

And situated in the heart of Old Quebec, the Quebec City German Christmas Market seamlessly weaves its historic location and timeless beauty with the holiday season.

Be sure not to miss the German Christmas Pyramid backed by the ever-enchanting Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec — itself, a spiritual destination for Christmastime — and surrounded by wooden kiosks serving traditional German treats and artisanal goods. This is the perfect place to find a unique Christmas gift, as both German classics and local Quebecois goods are sold in the huts.

Or, catch any one of the numerous events and performances from its free family-friendly program — live music, shows, traditional German crafts, and even a giant puppet parade wandering the frosty cobblestones.

Simply put: when it comes to its stunning historic location, expansive attractions, and multitude of events and performances, you can't beat Quebec City's German Christmas Market.

The Quebec City German Christmas Market runs from Thursday to Sunday each week, and is free to enter.

See the market on a Quebec winter vacation: Montreal & Quebec City by Rail | Winter Splendors

Credit: Travel Alberta / Josh Segeleski

2. Banff Christmas Market

2025 dates: November 20-23, November 28-30, December 5-7, and December 12-14, 2025

Where to find it: Banff Heritage Train Station - 327 Railway Ave, Banff

Banff Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas events in the Rockies, and undeniably one of the best Christmas Markets in Canada.

Set against the snowy Canadian Rockies and the charming heritage train station, and just a 6-minute walk from Banff Avenue, the festive atmosphere here is unmatched. It ticks every 'Christmas in the mountains' box and then some, with Cascade Mountain overlooking the whole event.

And, while you're there, there is plenty to see and do.

There are over 175 stalls with artisan goods and locally made crafts, many inspired by the mountains they're nestled in. Or, visit Santa's House & Workshop to meet the big man himself.

After you've shopped your way through the indoor stalls, you can settle by one of the outdoor fire pits to enjoy nostalgic seasonal treats. Adults can choose spiked hot chocolate, spiced apple cider, or mulled wine from the North Pole Station Bar, while the Candy Cane Lane Hot Chocolate Bar offers non-alcoholic options for all.

After your trip to the market, you are in prime position to explore the best of the Canadian Rockies in winter. Banff is, of course, one of the Rockies' iconic destinations, and takes on a magical atmosphere when covered by snow and ice. And, you're just a short hop from scenic wonders like the frozen Lake Louise or a beautiful drive from Jasper.

See the market on a Rockies winter trip: Best of the Canadian Rockies Winter Train Vacation

Credit: Destination Toronto

3. Distillery Winter Village (Toronto Christmas Market)

2025 dates: November 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026 (closed Christmas Day)

Where to find it: The Distillery Historic District - 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON

A 55-foot real fir Christmas tree with over 80,000 lights at its center; carolers roaming the cobblestone; and cabins, food stalls, and bars lining the streets all give life to Toronto's Distillery Historic District in winter.

The Distillery Winter Village is Toronto's original Christmas Market, and is still the best in the city. It is made up of cabins set up throughout the laneways, immersive experiences, special performances, and, of course, a healthy dose of Christmas magic.

Cobblestone streets and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for a truly festive holiday season.

And, at the same time, Toronto's urban draw is evident in its Instagrammable holiday photo ops, themed outdoor bars, and impressive illuminations.

The Distillery Historic District remains open during the Winter Village market, so you can enjoy both the European goods and treats from the cabins, a delightful mix of art galleries, charming boutiques, and diverse dining options, all within an easy, leisurely stroll.

A destination in its own right, the Distillery Historic District is conveniently located less than half an hour from Union Station. That means the Toronto Christmas Market provides the perfect gateway to exploring other attractions like the Royal Ontario Museum, shopping for fresh produce at St. Lawrence Market, and diving into the history of hockey at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Or, extend your time in Canada with a train to the West Coast to experience another of Canada's best Christmas markets.

Some days require tickets after 4pm — check their website for details on which days — with a fixed entry timeslot. Tickets for the Toronto Christmas Market must be purchased online in advance.

See the market on a snowy train trip across Canada: Trans Canada Winter Train Tour | Vancouver to Toronto

Credit: Destination Vancouver / Lindsay Elliot

4. Vancouver Christmas Market

2025 dates: November 13 to December 24, 2025

Where to find it: Jack Poole Plaza - 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC

In the picturesque Jack Poole Plaza, directly on Vancouver's harbor, the Vancouver Christmas Market invites you to revel in the magic of the season with stunning waterfront views and an enchanting European ambiance.

As expected, wooden stalls sell intricate ornaments, handmade gifts, and classic German and European goods.

But Vancouver Christmas Market shines brightest as a foodie spot.

Fresh pretzels and mulled wine — the classics we've come to expect from any good Christmas market — meet more experimental aperitifs, like hot Aperol Spritz, and global flavors like creamy Swiss raclette, Taiwanese fried squid, and Transylvanian Chimney Cakes.

And the list of wonders goes on.

A walk-through Christmas tree and dazzlingly lit Lovers' Lane are perfect Christmas photo spots in Vancouver. The cozy, heated Alpen Haus and the decorated Christmas pyramid selling steaming mugs of glühwein offer ample opportunities to keep warm. And unlimited rides on the classic Christmas carousel and a rotating selection of events add to the festive atmosphere.

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, it's just a 15-minute walk from Gastown. And, you'll find easy access to landmarks like the Gastown Steam Clock and the neighborhood's own cobblestone-street charm — our personal favorite neighborhood in Vancouver in winter. The Christmas carousel promises delightful spins of joy, while delectable German treats and artisan gifts are sure to indulge your senses and please your loved ones.

For those seeking a luxurious base, the opulent Fairmont Pacific Rim or the intimate Rosewood Hotel are both MICHELIN Key-winning hotels in the heart of Vancouver that we love to recommend to our guests.

Tickets for the Vancouver Christmas Market can be purchased online in advance or on the day of your visit.

See the market on a holiday tour: White Christmas at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Credit: Humanssoftwild

5. Great Montreal Christmas Market

2025 dates: November 21, 2025 to January 4, 2026

Where to find it: Place des Festivals - 1499 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC

The Grand Marché de Noël de Montréal (Great Montreal Christmas Market) pays homage to Montreal's festival culture, lighting up Jeanne Mance Street with dazzling displays and cozy chalets — quite simply, everything you could want at Christmastime.

Though it's the second market in Quebec on this list, it is just as much a sight to see as the first. Montreal's French-Canadian atmosphere brings a distinctly European feel to the market. Full-scale wooden houses are set alongside classic market stalls, making for an entirely immersive experience.

Montreal actually hosts several other Christmas villages (Village de Noël de Montréal) and markets (Marchés Jean Talon, Atwater, and Maisonneuve) throughout the season. So, if you're looking for the best Christmas destination in Canada, Montreal is a strong contender.

However, for its scale and its dedication to decoration and ambience, the Great Montreal Christmas Market is our favorite.

See the market on a winter train tour: Montreal & Quebec City by Rail | Winter Splendors

Credit: Tourism Calgary

6. International Christmas Market at Spruce Meadows (Calgary)

2025 dates: November 14–16, November 21–23, and November 28–30, 2025

Where to find it: Spruce Meadows - 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary, AB

Immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the holiday season at the Spruce Meadows Christmas Market in Calgary.

Nestled within the picturesque grounds of Spruce Meadows, this market transforms the equestrian center into a winter wonderland, offering a festive escape for visitors of all ages.

The stalls are set throughout Spruce Meadows — in outdoor plazas, indoor pavilions, and the Riding Hall and its attached buildings. There, over 300 vendors (the most vendors of any place on this list) are selling a treasure trove of unique and handcrafted gifts, perfect for your holiday shopping. And, if you visit on a Sunday, you'll be greeted by Santa's reindeer in the central Riding Circle.

If you're looking to explore beyond the market, winter in Calgary offers plenty of festive and family-friendly entertainment. Visit Calgary Zoo to see the night come alive with ZOOLIGHTS Christmas lights display. Or, head west mountain-bound to discover the true magic that is winter in the Canadian Rockies.

Tickets for Spruce Meadows Christmas Market can be purchased online in advance or on the day of your visit.

See the market on a winter trip to the mountains: Luxury Winter Train Tour to the Canadian Rockies | VIA Rail

Credit: Travel Yukon / @andrewserack

7. 12 Days of Christmas Fireweed Community Market (Whitehorse, the Yukon)

2025 dates: December 8 to December 21, 2025

Where to find it: Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre - 1171 1st Ave, YT

The 12 days of Christmas Fireweed Community Market is probably the smallest on our list. But, it more than makes up for it in festive spirit and in its extraordinary destination.

Heading north to the Yukon, you'll be welcomed into a classic Canadian winter — every wonderland trope comes true when you're surrounded by thick white snow and sleeping under the dancing Northern Lights.

As well as being one of the best places in Canada to see the Northern Lights, the Yukon makes a wonderful holiday destination.

You'll be welcomed into a true community market held in the Longhouse at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and filled with locals and visitors alike. Over 100 local vendors contribute to the Yukon's biggest Christmas market, selling handmade crafts, specialty foods, and fine art pieces.

And if you're looking to explore beyond the market, we can't recommend a Northern Lights tour more.

See the market on a Northern Lights tour: Northern Lights Resort & Spa | Winter at its Best

Credit: Canada By Design

Book Your Winter Vacation Today

If you're looking to explore Canada's merry atmosphere — a winter wonderland escape in Whistler, a cozy retreat in Quebec City, or a festive adventure in Banff — we'd love to have you. Each of our packages are hand-designed to create lasting holiday memories for every guest.

Feeling inspired? Reach out to one of our Travel Designers to begin creating a custom trip.

Prefer to simply stay in touch? Subscribe to our newsletter for up-to-date deals, trip ideas, and more. We'll be in touch soon.

FAQ

Where is the best place to go in Canada at Christmas?

The best place for Christmas in Canada depends on what you are looking for.

Quebec City is our favorite Canadian destination for a historic city experience. But, if you're looking for a pine tree forest Christmas, we recommend the Canadian Rockies, particularly Jasper, for a cabin-in-the-woods experience, or Banff to stay in a mountainside castle.

Where will I see snow at Christmas in Canada?

In Canada, the likelihood of snow in winter depends on where you are going.

In Quebec City, snow has begun to settle by December most years, solidifying Quebec City's claim to be the best Christmas destination in the country. In the Canadian Rockies, snow also typically settles by December.

However, cities like Vancouver rarely see snow over the festive period.

Can my child meet Santa?

Several of the Christmas markets on the list above have photo-ops and meet-and-greets with Santa, whether at a decorated Santa's House, wandering the market, or at special times. If you or your children would like to meet Santa, check with the market prior to your visit.