We have been through so much these past two years. We have been asked to stay apart, constantly adapting to new health and safety protocols to keep us safe, and adjusting to virtual socialization practices. 2021 marks a year of great triumph — finally vaccinated, we can hug our loved ones again, go back to enjoying restaurants and shows, and, most importantly, we can finally come back together. What better way to celebrate the beginning of our victories than with the launch of Burlington’s first annual Holiday Market and a Christmas mini-market from the North Coal restaurant? These non-profit winter festivities have been established to bring the community together in good holiday spirits, encouraging residents to shop locally, enjoy entertainment, food, and socializing.
The Burlington Holiday Market will be held in the heart of downtown Burlington, in Parking Lot 1 running between Pearl and Elizabeth streets. The space will undergo a transformation into a picturesque winter escape, designed to spread holiday joy and bring families, friends, and neighbours together. Peter Van Dyk and Rick Burgess are the co-chairs of the market and propose that this event will serve as a way to build on Burlington’s tradition of inclusivity and steadfast community. Between Dec. 9 and 12, the market will be free to enter, open and welcoming to all residents, families, and visitors from surrounding regions to enjoy the holidays. Andrew Wagar, who is on the planning committee, commented, “The event itself is not-for-profit and was created to help drive people to downtown Burlington to support local businesses in the area that experienced slower traffic over the past few years.” With this new tradition on the horizon, saving us from journeying into downtown Toronto for holiday markets, we have the opportunity to come together and support our own city.
The creators of the Burlington Holiday Market have blended inspiration from Euro-style Christmas markets with our own Canadian heritage in order to deliver an original and immersive experience for visitors. Several key features include music from local bands and other local talent, holiday decorations and over 40 vendors.
The North Coal Kitchen & Bar will also be hosting its own separate Christmas mini-market at the same time. This is another non-profit event that will be held on the patio of the restaurant, located at 399 Elizabeth Street, right across the street from the Burlington Holiday Market! They will be offering food, drinks, and local shopping opportunities. The restaurant will be turning their patio into a Muskoka-like getaway. If you are a Northern Ontario enthusiast, this is a great opportunity to enjoy the perks of the north right here in your hometown. Stay warm and cozy with one-of-a-kind tabletop firepits while lounging back in a classic Muskoka chair. Participating vendors for shopping include Baffin, SimpliSYDNI, Lucky Duck Gifts, The Re-Luxe Collective, and Toques from the Heart. In the spirit of giving during the holiday season, the North Coal is supporting ROCK (Reach Out Centre for Kids), who are working to support new mothers. This is the perfect opportunity to help someone in need and give back. The North Coal is accepting the following donations during the mini-market: baby wipes, diapers, baby supplies, and baby clothing. Sharing your privileges with others who might not have as much is so important to strengthen our community as a whole and to build connections between all members of our community.
The Burlington Holiday Market is the start of an annual tradition, as the creators of the event are hoping to bring it back every year, and the North Coal’s Christmas market has been around for a couple of years already. If you’re aiming to visit on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, you can make it into a Christmas market crawl and go to both! Celebrations are much needed in everyone’s life, and all are welcome to come and join the fun. Love where you live.
Holiday Market Information
The Burlington Holiday Market
Parking Lot 1, 431 Elizabeth St., Burlington, ON
https://www.burlingtonholidaymarket.com/
Thursday, December 9: 4 p.m. –10 p.m.
Friday, December 10: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Saturday, December 11: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Sunday, December 12: 11 a.m. –7 p.m.
Opportunities
Anyone who is interested in booking a booth or volunteering to help out can email Van Dyk at peterjohnv@pvv-insurance.com or Burgess at rick@frederlaw.ca.
The North Coal Christmas Market
399 Elizabeth Street, Burlington, ON
www.thenorthcoal.com/christmasmarket
Friday, December 10: 4 p.m. –10 p.m.
Saturday, December 11: 12 p.m. –10 p.m.
Sunday, December 12: 12 p.m. –9 p.m.
—————————————————————————
Correction/Update: this article has been changed to reflect the most recent information from market organizers. Apologies for any inconvenience.
Rebecca is a recent graduate from McMaster University, earning her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She loves books, writing, helping others, and animals. She enjoys the outdoors and road trips, is a major coffee enthusiast, and has a newfound passion for yoga.
