Short days, snow, and an absolute need for gloves—what makes Montreal a pain in the winter is also what makes it the perfect place for holiday festivities. So grab a friend and a tote bag, and brave the cold to the following markets to snag some local gifts.
The Great Montreal Christmas Market – Quartier des Spectacles
Distance from campus: 10 minutes, via Place-des-Arts metro
Dates: Thursday-Sunday Nov. 25-Dec. 18, all week Dec. 19-30
The Great Montreal Christmas Market offers an escape for students in urgent need of hot chocolate and holiday vibes. With over 60 vendors selling a wide array of goods from jewelry to candles to food, there’s bound to be something for everyone. But keep in mind that there are only 30 booths, so many of the vendors rotate.
Montreal Christmas Village – Atwater Market
Distance from campus: 15 minutes, via Lionel-Groulx metro
Dates: Friday-Sunday Nov. 30-Dec. 24
The sister market of the one in Quartier des Spectacles, the Montreal Christmas Village is the quintessential holiday market in the city, complete with a big Christmas tree and holiday-themed programming like fondue nights and movie screenings. With 54 vendors, this will be a great place for stocking stuffers or to simply relax after class.
Marché des Fêtes – Time Out Market
Distance from campus: 5 minutes by foot
Dates: Dec. 7-10 and 14-17
The closest market to campus is in the Time Out Market food court. Organized by the Collectif Créatif, a Montreal organization that brings together local artists and creators, this market is a great opportunity to see small businesses showcasing their products, which cover a wide variety of categories, including tableware and dishware, skincare, tabletop games, decor, and baked goods.
Holiday Market – Locoshope Angus
Distance from campus: 30 minutes, via Prefontaine metro
Dates: Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 2-3
Also organized by the Collectif Créatif, this temporary market is a great excuse to leave campus and explore a new area of the city. The vendors line the walls of what was once the Angus Shops, one of Montreal’s former industrial hubs, displaying everything from clothing to pet accessories, candles, and chocolates.
Winter Market – Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) Building
Distance from campus: on campus
Dates: Nov. 30 and Dec. 1//
If the thought of leaving campus doesn’t sound too appealing, head to the SSMU Ballroom to meet local vendors and pick up some crafts, snacks, and artwork.
Vegan Christmas Market – Maison du développement durable
Distance from campus: 15 minutes, via Saint-Laurent metro
Dates: Dec. 2-3
Located in the Maison du développement durable, this is the perfect place to stock up on vegan goods before heading for skating at Esplanade Tranquille. From baked goods to fashion accessories and cosmetics, all products here are made without animal substances. Just don’t forget to book your free ticket ahead of time.
Marché de Noël de Jean-Talon – Jean-Talon Market
Getting there: 40 minutes, via Jean-Talon metro
Dates: Dec. 2-24
The Marché Jean-Talon is worth visiting any time of the year, and the holiday market is just icing on the cake. Though on the smaller end with only 12 booths, this gastronomy-focused bazaar is the perfect place to pick something up for the foodie in your life.
Marché Artisinal Puces POP – Saint-Denis Church
Getting there: 20 minutes, via Laurier metro
Dates: Dec. 8-10 and 15-16
Located in the Saint-Denis church on Laurier, this market will feature over 150 local artists and businesses, split over the two weekends. With everything from jewelry to ceramics, the only issue will be trying not to spend too much.
Marchés de Noël illustratif & ludique and Gourmand & Artisanat – Pop-Up Labs
Distance from campus: 35 minutes, via Mont-Royal metro
Dates: Dec. 9-10 and 16-17
The first weekend of this intimate indoor market will focus on art and toys, and the second weekend will be all about food and crafts. Either way, it’s bound to be a nice afternoon and a good excuse—if you needed any—to walk down Mont-Royal Avenue.
