Discover the Christmas markets

Christmas markets have become a tradition that warms up the freezing days of November and December, which brightens up public squares as well as some churches. Throughout Quebec, there are many markets that offer local products, from the Quebec region and made by artisans.

In these markets, you can find gourmet products, original jewelry, decorative items, beauty products, but also children's toys.

For those who like to immerse themselves in the holiday season atmosphere well before the hour, it remains an unmissable outing . I couldn't resist the call of the magic of these markets either.

My first Christmas market experience

I first visited the famous Nutcracker market . For 7 years, this market, an initiative of the Grands Ballets, has been an opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts in a warm and festive atmosphere, but also to give back to the Nutcracker Fund for children cause. 10% of exhibitor sales as well as all revenue earned by Les Grands Ballets during the event will be donated directly to the Nutcracker Fund.

By visiting this market, I had the pleasure of discovering local businesses and talking with the people, the humans, behind the different creations. I was also amazed by the creativity of some giving a second life to harmless everyday objects.

Meet and discover

I really liked the availability and kindness of the various exhibitors and their good humor. Everyone was answering our various questions regarding their products as well as the processes involved in making and creating them.

Some products send us back to memories. We find ourselves looking at and discovering the different creations with a little smirk. Sometimes, too, when tasting products (I still remember having tasted the products of a hydromelerie), we come across excellent finds that will later garnish our tables during family evenings.

It is undeniable that I had a lot of fun talking to all these local creators and producers and seeing the passion that drives them by telling me about the fruits of their labor. It's refreshing to see who's behind everything that's on display and sold.

For its 2017 edition, the Nutcracker Market will be held as usual at the Palais des Congrès, from November 30 to December 10.

Other markets to discover

I had also visited the Great Christmas Market on the Place des Arts esplanade. Again, artisans and producers were available and their welcome was warm. The fact that this market is in the open air gave rise to a host of activities and enchantments: a big fire, luminous decorations at nightfall as well as activities for the little ones.
For this year, the market will take place from December 1 ^to 24.

Finally, several municipalities organize Christmas markets, a little research is enough to list them all: the German Christmas market in Quebec , the Christmas markets in Lanaudière , etc.

The Made in Quebec Expo

To stay local, the Expo Fait au Québec par Signé Local will be held from November 24 and throughout the month of December, every weekend, in the heart of the Dix30 district.

The Expo will be a golden opportunity to meet and discuss with passionate and talented creators offering you the opportunity to shop for original Christmas gifts made in Quebec. Indeed, 120 exhibitors from various sectors will be present. In addition, new features are planned every week.

You can enjoy this local experience with family, friends or solo if you prefer. For the modest sum of $5, a pass will give you access to the event for its entire duration. And for those 18 and under, it's free!

For the full list of exhibitors, visit the Expo website and follow us on social media .

You can get your tickets here .