The massive — and massively popular — Spruce Meadows Christmas Market opens today.
Modelled on the traditional Christmas markets seen in Europe, the market will run over three weekends: Nov. 17-19, Nov. 24-26 and Dec. 1-3.
Market hours are noon to 8 p.m. on Fridays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
The market will feature 300-plus vendors, but it’s all the lights and decorations, including new pieces imported from Europe, that make it a fully immersive experience.
Some crowd-favourites are back, including Santa’s reindeer, who will be taking a break from their flight training to visit the market on Sundays.
The big man himself will also be on hand. Families can get a photo with Santa Claus each day of the market on Candy Cane Lane, facilitated by Rümi by ATCO. The photos are by donation, with a recommended minimum $5 donation, with the proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity.
Also returning this year, in lieu of a central entertainment stage, are roaming carollers and musicians.
Winter Wonderland will feature a petting zoo, arts and crafts for the kids and youth vendors.
For those who find themselves wanting a bigger meal than the venue’s concessions, Spruce Meadows is now offering high tea and three-course long table dinners on Fridays and Saturdays, reserved through the Spruce Meadows website, which will include market admission with purchase.
General admission is $15; seniors and children are $10.
For more information about the market, visit sprucemeadows.com/christmasmarket.
