For some, the holidays are a time for loved ones, making merry and taking time to relax. For others (cough, us), it's a time for watching Christmas movies with unrealistic plotlines about high-powered New York City lawyers returning to their impossibly charming hometown for the season. If stepping into a Hallmark movie sounds like magic, we have good news: Elora Christmas Market is a winter wonderland just 90 minutes away from Toronto.
Elora Christmas Market is free for all ages and runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (until December 29). Walk the cobblestone streets of the holiday market, lit up with 88,000 energy-efficient twinkling lights, and prepare to do some credit card damage at the adorable boutique cedar chalets offering local, handmade gifts and artisan wares.
The small town is extremely walkable and, despite having only a population of 3,000 people, hits way above its weight when it comes to quality restaurants, bars, distilleries and shopping. Take in the beautiful festive lights of Elora and enjoy afternoon tea, a flight of beer at Elora Brewing Company or a romantic meal inside one of its many eateries.
Since time is of the essence, we share the best of Elora Christmas Market and all of the can't-miss moments to experience during your stay.
What to do at the Elora Christmas Market
Elora Christmas Market
55 Mill St. W.
The whole town is sprinkled with joy at this time of year, but the heart of the magic can be found inside the Elora Christmas Market. Enter via the 'Hallway Of Lights,' located on Mill Street opposite the pedestrian bridge, and browse adorably festive chalets underneath a canopy of twinkling lights. The market has done a marvellous job of showcasing local artists, and you'll love your gifts all the more knowing the passion and love that went into handmade Christmas ornaments, ceramic mugs, wooden charcuterie boards and more. You'll find huts serving hot beverages and snacks next to the open-fire tables. Grab a cup of cheer and snuggle into a Muskoka chair while listening to holiday tunes tinkling away.
Shop until you drop
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This walkable town is flush with charming, neighbourhood stores. Fromagerie Evelyn is a premium grocer specializing in imported cheese, cured meat and everything else you could possibly need for your charcuterie board this season. The knowledgeable staff helped me stock up on olives, salty and soft Époisses cheese and artisan crackers for an upcoming holiday party, and almost all of it made its way home to Toronto. Seasons Home & Gift is a treasure trove of candles, homeware, Christmas ornaments and other beautiful stocking stuffers. Blackbird, a cute consignment store, is a great spot to pick up ethical, sustainable, and eco-friendly purses, shoes and everyday basics.
Relaxation at Elora Mill Hotel & Spa
77 Mill St. W.
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The Elora Mill is a gorgeous spot to unwind at any time of year, but they've taken it up a notch for the holidays. The historic building, which was once a grist mill, has leaned into the festivities and is wrapped up in a literal red bow for the holidays. Once a grist mill, the landmark is now a hotel, restaurant and spa perched on top of the thundering Elora Gorge. Enjoy the panoramic views at brunch, lunch or dinner, or from the rooftop pool and hot tub at the spa. Enjoy a pre-holiday facial, massage or pedicure at the stunning facility, then relax in the top-floor solarium — which turned into a snowglobe during a blizzard during my visit.
Eat, drink and be merry
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Foodies will find plenty of gourmet ways to fill their bellies in Elora. The Wild Tart is a European-style patisserie serving sweet and savoury afternoon tea from 11 a.m. The treats on a tiered afternoon tea stands, complimentary glass of bubbles and generously replenished pots of tea will keep you cozy on the coldest of days. Next door, sister spot The Tartlette offers casual fare like sandwiches, croissants and other savouries. Melt into the snug ambience of The Evelyn, a charming bistro with low lights, French onion soup and a great wine list. Then cap off your dreamy date night with a visit to the Elora Distillery, makers of craft handcrafted spirits and beer, or The Lobby Bar for top-notch cocktails, kitschy decor and an Asian-inspired menu.
Catch a holiday movie at The Gorge Cinema Elora
43 Mill St. W.
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When the dancing snowflakes have lost their allure and you need to warm up cold fingers and toes, head to The Gorge Cinema Elora, Canada’s oldest continuously operating repertory movie theatre. Inside a rustic stone building, the cozy picture house plays a mix of independent and classic movies, but for the holiday season, you can catch festive films like Home Alone and Elf.
Where to stay
Kat Florence Elora
43 Mill St. W.
It's possible to experience the Elora Christmas Market in a day, but we recommend a sleepover t if you want to keep the magic going and enjoy unlimited mulled winer. Elora has several cozy accommodations, like the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, but the town's latest opening will leave jaws on the floor. Kat Florence Elora, located in the heart of town and just steps away from the market, has seven uniquely designed suites with endless touches and gorgeous decor.
Kat Florence, a jewellery designer and Elora native has restored the 185-year-old hotel, working with local craftspeople to bring the charm back to this heritage building. From the original stonework to modern fireplaces, chic furnishings and cozy blankets, every element of the design at the hotel has been informed by Kat Florence’s design DNA.
The Elora Christmas Market is on until December 29, 2024
