The annual Toronto Christmas market is a magical place after dark
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We are introducing a brand new series of Photo Essays! Have a look at amazing Photo Sets all shot by local photographers. Explore the vibe of the city, its hidden treasures, meet the Torontonians! This time, let's have a look at Toronto through the lens of Benson Kua!
Lowe's Christmas Markets Lights Up Toronto
The delicious smell of "Glühwein" and gingerbread, twinkling Christmas decorations all around and lines of wooden stalls full of beautiful home-made toys by local artists. What does that remind us of? It's Christmas time again! There is a Christmas market in almost every bigger town for the locals and tourists to get in the festive mood. A meeting place for friends, the last resort for Christmas shopping but over all, the spirit of the holidays.
The tradition of the street markets originates in Medieval Europe, where the cozy streets were filled with vendors and performers during the weeks of Advent, celebrating the traditional sights, sounds and scents of the coming Christmas. The Dresden Christmas market in Germany was first held in 1434, and is one of the oldest Christmas markets. Since then, the tradition has spread all around the world bringing the unique tastes such as candied almonds, Bratwurst and hot mulled wine to Canada.
The markets are usually held on the Main Square, but Toronto has its very special place that is traditionally the location of the Toronto Christmas Market. In its third year, the beautiful historic neighbourhood of the Distillery District provides both enough space and unique surroundings for this special event. After dark, the market lights up with decorations and creates a romantic Christmas setting for visitors to enjoy. Stop by and have a look at the 9-metre-high Christmas tree that twinkles with thousands of eco-friendly lights to handcrafted jewelry. The family friendly program features musicians, carolers and children's choirs. Explore the grounds that are home to Santa's house, a fairy-forrest maze or a gingerbread house. The kids love the amusement rides such as little trains or the carousel while grown-ups enjoy a visit to beer gardens that offer special Christmas brews.
Carol singers please not only visitors but also Christmas elfs!
Distillery District is the traditional location of the market
Just before twilight, when the market begins its transformation
Some Christmas shopping during the day...
... becomes magical after night falls!
The carousel is popular with kids
Meet The Photographer
Benson Kua
Benson was born and raised in Manila, Philippines and currently resides in Toronto, Canada. He loves taking photographs of everything under the sun (or the moon) but has a soft spot for landscape and nature photography.