‘Tis that jolly season once again. The days are shorter, the nights colder. Chestnuts are beginning to roast upon open fires across the world, and Jack Frost, in his unrelenting power, nips at all of our noses, having just blessed Montreal with 20cm of early snowfall this past week. As we approach Yuletide and embrace the festive spirit, many of us are starting to wonder where we can find the perfect gift to give our loved ones, while also celebrating togetherness, community, and the new year. Don’t fret, The Tribune has gathered a list of Montreal holiday markets you won’t want to miss.
Le Grand Marché de Noël at Place des Arts
No holiday market guide would be replete without due mention of the biggest and perhaps most well-known Montreal holiday market. From Nov. 21 to Jan. 4, shoppers can brave the cold and head down to the Quartier des Spectacles on rue St.-Catherine to see over 40 charming winter chalets housing exhibits from dozens of local and regional artisans. The Great Christmas Market offers tourists and locals alike a holiday experience to remember. With over 150 free activities, including musical and theatrical programming, there’s no risk of boredom. Take in what seems to be a scene ripped straight out of the North Pole while drinking a hot, fruity, and spiced mulled wine. Make sure to stop by their signature show Noël à Montréal, which tells the tale of a fantastical Kingdom of Elves, for an even more immersive experience. Offering a number of packages which include drink and meal coupons, priority access to vendors, and even souvenirs, The Great Christmas Market is popular for a reason.
A Very Queer Holigay Market at l’idéal bar & contenus
If the crowded, maximalist energy of Le Grand Marché de Noël is more of a deterrent than an incentive, check out the Holigay market at l’idéal bar & contenus on Nov. 29 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. The market featuring over 15 makers and artisans from Montreal’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community, you’ll be able to shop hand-crafted jewelry from independent vendors like Statique, mycological paintings and pottery from Peauxs et Spores, or even a tattoo from Thanatasia.Tattoos. Support local queer businesses and mingle with the crowd in a more intimate setting at this inclusive, must-see event.
Le Marché Vintage at Église St. Denis
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift you can’t buy on Amazon, or you’re just shopping for that hipster friend who lives in the Plateau, you’ll want to check out the Vintage Holiday Market on Nov. 29 at 5075 rue Rivard near the Laurier metro station. Featuring over 35 vintage and antique dealers and a live vinyl DJ, you’ll be able to find a wide range of trinkets, collector’s items, and other curiosities, many of which you //literally// cannot buy in stores anymore. From Bakelite coffee mugs and dinnerware sets to old lighters and chic fur coats to leather boots, you’ll be able to find a special present for anyone in your life. Plus, gifting second-hand items is both economical and sustainable—you’ll be able to fill out everyone’s wish-list at a fraction of the price, all while avoiding unnecessary waste
Marché Malfectarium: Sombre Solstice Edition at 400 Rue St. Ambroise
For those who wish every holiday were Halloween and are sad that the spookiest time of year has been all but replaced, we see you, hear you, and understand. Instead of partaking in a holiday season that wishes for hackneyed, unrealistic, and frankly boring joy to the world, check out the ‘Season’s Creepings’ at Marché Malfectarium, a creepy twist on the classic holiday market. On Dec. 20 and 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., venture down to St. Henri to shop for gothic gifts featuring witches, vampires, and other horrifying creatures from the darkest depths of human creation. With over 20 vendors and the offer of a special goodie bag to the first 20 shoppers of the day, Marché Malfectarium is the perfect activity for those who would rather shout humbug than join in on the holiday cheer.
