Selling at a Christmas market is one of the best ways for Toronto makers and small food businesses to reach holiday shoppers. Here’s how to get started.
When to apply
Applications for major holiday markets usually open in spring or summer, and many close by late summer or early fall. If you’re reading this in November, you’ll likely be applying for next year, though smaller community markets sometimes have last-minute spots.
Where to apply
- Large markets: the Distillery Winter Village and the One of a Kind Show have formal application processes on their websites.
- Mid-size markets: Evergreen Brick Works and maker markets often recruit through their own sites or market organisers.
- Community markets: BIAs, churches, schools and community centres. See neighbourhood holiday markets.
What it costs
Fees vary widely, from a small table fee at a community fair to thousands of dollars for a booth at a major multi-week market or show. Ask what’s included: tables, power, heat, lighting, Wi-Fi and marketing.
What organisers look for
- Original, handmade or locally made products.
- Good photos of your products and booth.
- A clear price range that suits the market’s shoppers.
- Reliability: you must staff every shift you commit to.
Permits and rules
- Food vendors need to meet Toronto Public Health requirements; organisers usually tell you what’s needed.
- Sales tax: register for HST if your revenue exceeds the small-supplier threshold.
- Insurance: many markets require liability insurance.
Check with the organiser and the City of Toronto for current rules, as this is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Setting up your booth
A good booth draws people in from a distance and makes it easy to buy:
- Use height: shelves, crates and risers make products visible from the aisle.
- Add lighting: battery-powered LED lights help at evening and outdoor markets.
- Display prices clearly on every item or with a simple sign.
- Bring a branded banner or sign with your business name.
- Keep it festive but uncluttered, with a few holiday touches.
- Have a gift-wrapping option: bags, tissue or simple wrap make your products easy gifts.
Pricing for holiday shoppers
- Offer a range of prices, including small stocking stuffers, mid-range gifts and a few premium items.
- Create bundles or gift sets for easy decisions.
- Know your costs: include materials, time, booth fees and payment processing fees in your pricing.
- Avoid deep discounting; shoppers at artisan markets expect to pay for quality.
Packing checklist
- Tables, tablecloths and displays
- Stock, plus extra in the car
- Card reader, charged, plus a backup and cash float
- Bags and wrapping
- Price tags and signage
- Business cards and social media handles
- Extension cord (if power is provided)
- Warm layers, hand warmers and a folding chair for outdoor markets
- Snacks and water
After the market
Track your sales, note your best sellers, follow up with customers who signed up for your newsletter, and post thank-you messages on social media. This helps you plan stock and apply to the right markets next year.
Becoming a market vendor: FAQ
How much does a booth at a Toronto Christmas market cost? It varies from a small table fee at a community fair to thousands of dollars at large multi-week markets and shows.
Do I need a business licence? Requirements depend on what you sell and where. Check with the organiser and the City of Toronto, and consult a professional for tax advice.
More: Toronto Christmas craft fairs · Christmas market calendar
Tips for success
- Bring card payment and a backup.
- Offer gift-ready items at several price points.
- Plan for the cold at outdoor markets: layers, heaters if allowed, and covers for your stock.
See all markets on the Toronto Christmas market calendar.
