The Toronto Christmas Market

My daughter was supposedly due in January of 2011; well past the holiday season. Akshaya surprised all of us when she appeared Earthside almost five weeks early in the midst of the busy holiday season and a snowstorm. Every snowstorm in December, every Christmas tree, and every warm and happy feeling associated with the holiday season reminds me of my firstborn. 

For the past few years, I have been yearning to visit the Toronto Christmas Market with my children however around this time of year, Akshaya’s asthma is the worst and we refrain from going out. As far as I can remember, Akshaya has always been sick or in the hospital on her birthday. This year she happened to be well enough to enjoy a day out. I was hesitant about pulling the kids out of school for the day but Akshaya had an appointment and it was well worth it to spend time as a family and to see her to happy.  The Toronto Christmas Market was the perfect place to spend Akshaya’s birthday – It was so beautiful and magical just like my Akshaya! 

If you are planning to visit the Toronto Christmas Market this year with your family, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The Toronto Christmas Market is open Tuesday-Sunday from November 15th until December 23rd. The market opens at noon from Tuesday through Friday and opens at 10AM on the weekends. Admission to the market is free from Tuesdays through Thursday and on Fridays before 5PM. Admission Fridays after 5PM and on the weekends is $6 per person. Entry for children under 2 years of age is free of charge. If you have a family with young children, opt to visit during the weekday when crowds are minimal. 
• Ideally, it is best to visit the Toronto Christmas Market at night because of the beautiful lights. However, nights are also ALOT more colder. The lights are kept on during the day as well. 
• Plan your visit according to the weather report. Even then DO NOT underestimate the cold – dress in layers upon layers so that everyone is warm and has a good time. Parents, bring hats and gloves for yourself as well. 
• Santa photos are free, however Santa is only available on Tuesdays after 2PM, and on weekends. 
• Bring a stroller for your babies and toddlers, and a stroller blanket. 
• There are several paid parking lots available nearby. 
• There are two rides (a larger Ferris wheel and carousel, both which require 1 ticket per ride. 1 ticket is $5 and 8 tickets are $36. 
• There are many vendors, small shops and restaurants located within the market.
• The best place to warm up and have hot chocolate indoors is at the Young Centre for Performing Arts located within the Distillery District. 
• There are so many great photo-ops so bring your camera.

Enjoy your visit!