Twinkling lights, artisan vendors, and the scent of mulled wine—Ottawa’s Christmas markets are calling! The capital region hosts over 100 holiday markets and craft fairs throughout November and December, offering the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts while soaking in festive atmosphere.
From the European-style Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne to intimate neighbourhood bazaars, there’s a market for every taste and budget. This comprehensive guide covers the must-visit markets for your holiday shopping list.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa hosts 100+ Christmas markets in December 2025. The main Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne is free and runs weekends through Dec 31. Other highlights include Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous market and the 613flea Holiday Night Market.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Season | November - December 2025 |
| 📍 Main Market | Lansdowne Park (Aberdeen Square) |
| 🎟️ Admission | Most markets FREE |
| ⏰ Peak Times | Weekends, Friday evenings |
Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
The Main Event
Ottawa’s largest and most well-known Christmas market transforms Aberdeen Square at Lansdowne Park into a European-style winter wonderland:
2025 Schedule:
- Weekends from November through December 31
- Extended dates including December 30-31
- Free admission for all visitors
What to Expect
The market delivers an authentic European Christmas experience:
- 60+ vendors in wooden chalets
- Spectacular Christmas tree as centerpiece
- Live music and entertainment throughout
- Festive food and drink including boozy holiday favourites
- Family-friendly activities for all ages
- Santa visits for the children
- Photo opportunities everywhere you look
Illustrative image only.
Shopping Highlights
Find unique gifts from local artisans:
- Handcrafted jewelry and accessories
- Canadian-made clothing and textiles
- Artisan food products and preserves
- Holiday decorations and ornaments
- Art and photography
- Specialty gifts for hard-to-shop-for recipients
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Aberdeen Square, Lansdowne Park |
| Address | 1015 Bank Street |
| Parking | Lansdowne underground parking |
| Transit | Bank Street buses, O-Train walkable |
Indigenous Markets
Mādahòkì Farm Indigenous Winter Market
A truly special market experience in Nepean:
Trail of Lights & Traditions
- Dates: November 27 - December 28, 2025
- Self-guided walking route through illuminated trails
- Whimsical woodland animals and light displays
- Indigenous perspective on Christmas traditions
- Located 35 minutes from downtown Ottawa
What Makes It Unique:
- Indigenous artisan vendors
- Traditional crafts and foods
- Cultural education opportunities
- Connection to local Indigenous communities
- Outdoor winter experience
Supporting Indigenous Artisans
Shopping at Indigenous markets:
- Direct support for Indigenous creators
- Authentic craftsmanship in every piece
- Cultural significance behind the work
- Unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere
Weekly and Recurring Markets
613flea Holiday Night Market
Ottawa’s beloved flea market goes festive:
2025 Dates (Friday nights):
- November 28
- December 5
- December 12
- December 19
Details:
- Hours: 5pm - 10pm
- Vintage and handmade goods
- Local creators showcasing work
- Food vendors and refreshments
- Live entertainment
ByWard Market Holiday Events
The historic market district comes alive:
Daily Market:
- Small outdoor holiday market operating daily
- Fresh produce and artisan goods
- Within the vibrant ByWard neighbourhood
Heritage Hall Indoor Market:
- First three Saturdays in December
- Indoor shopping comfort
- Local vendors and craftspeople
Special Features:
- Free laser lights show nightly
- Free aurora light show nightly
- Festive decorations throughout
Museum and Special Markets
Canadian Museum of History Christmas Market
A premium market experience:
2025 Dates: November 27-30, 2025
Features:
- Nearly 100 exhibitors in Grand Hall and Douglas Cardinal Salon
- Holiday decorations and ornaments
- Woodworking and glass creations
- Gourmet foods and fine spirits
- Jewelry and fashion accessories
- Stunning museum setting
Ninth Wave Arts Yuletide Boutique
Arts-focused holiday shopping:
2025 Dates: December 6-20, 2025
Details:
- Location: 4596 Carp Road, Ottawa
- Weekend boutique event
- Local artists and makers
- Unique artistic gifts
Nepean Museum Retro Christmas
A nostalgic market experience:
2025 Dates: December 6-7, 2025
Features:
- Children’s holiday party atmosphere
- Aimed at kids aged 10 and under
- Vintage toys on display (1970s-90s)
- Nostalgic family fun
Neighbourhood Markets
Stittsville Events
Main Street comes alive December 6:
- Parade of Lights evening event
- Free community celebration
- Local vendors and activities
- Small-town holiday charm
Carp Farmers’ Market Holiday
Rural market charm:
- Local producers and artisans
- Farm-fresh holiday foods
- Country Christmas atmosphere
Illustrative image only.
Planning Your Market Visits
Best Times to Go
Strategic timing improves your experience:
Less Crowded:
- Early in the market day
- Weekday evening markets
- Earlier December weekends
- Before 11am on weekends
More Atmosphere (but busier):
- Weekend evenings
- Closer to Christmas
- During special events
- When live entertainment scheduled
What to Bring
Come prepared for the best experience:
- Cash - Some vendors don’t accept cards
- Reusable bags - Eco-friendly shopping
- Layers - Temperature varies indoor/outdoor
- Comfortable shoes - Lots of walking
- Phone/camera - Photo opportunities abound
- List - Keep track of gift needs
Market Etiquette
Support vendors and fellow shoppers:
- Ask before photographing merchandise closely
- Support small - even small purchases matter
- Be patient - vendors are often solo operators
- Ask questions - artisans love sharing their craft
Market Calendar Summary
| Market | Dates | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Ottawa Christmas Market (Lansdowne) | Weekends Nov-Dec 31 | FREE |
| Mādahòkì Farm | Nov 27 - Dec 28 | Check website |
| 613flea Night Market | Fridays Nov 28 - Dec 19 | FREE |
| Museum of History | Nov 27-30 | Check website |
| Ninth Wave Arts | Dec 6-20 | FREE |
| ByWard Market | Daily | FREE |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne free? A: Yes! Admission to the Ottawa Christmas Market at Aberdeen Square is completely free. You only pay for purchases from vendors.
Q: Which market is best for unique gifts? A: The 613flea Night Market and Mādahòkì Farm Indigenous Market offer particularly unique finds. The Canadian Museum of History market also features high-quality artisan work.
Q: Are the markets wheelchair accessible? A: Most major markets, including Lansdowne, are accessible. Check specific market websites for detailed accessibility information.
Q: Can I bring my dog to the Christmas markets? A: Policies vary by market. The outdoor portion of Lansdowne may allow leashed dogs, but indoor venues typically don’t. Check specific market rules before bringing pets.
Q: What payment methods do vendors accept? A: Many vendors accept credit/debit cards via mobile payment systems, but some smaller vendors remain cash-only. Bringing cash ensures you won’t miss out on finds.
Q: When is the best weekend to visit? A: The first weekend of December often has good atmosphere without peak crowds. The weekend before Christmas offers maximum festivity but also maximum crowds.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s Christmas markets offer some of the best holiday shopping experiences in Canada. From the European charm of Lansdowne’s main market to the cultural richness of Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous celebration, there’s something for everyone seeking unique gifts and festive atmosphere.
With over 100 markets, craft fairs, and holiday bazaars throughout November and December, the challenge isn’t finding a market—it’s fitting them all in! Start with the major events like the Ottawa Christmas Market, then explore neighbourhood markets and specialty fairs to complete your holiday shopping.
Bundle up, bring your shopping bags, and discover why Ottawa’s Christmas markets have become beloved holiday traditions.
Source: Ottawa Tourism, OttawaChristmasMarket.com, Narcity, Project Local Love - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa holiday events, visit Ottawa Events or explore Things to Do in the capital!
