Holiday markets put local makers at centre stage

Tashi Farmilo

Local producers and artisans are fuelling the holiday spirit this season with festive markets offering handmade goods, gourmet treats, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Across the Outaouais, dozens of Christmas markets are inviting residents to buy local: supporting the entrepreneurs, farmers, and artists who give the region its flavour and character.

Noël dans le Vieux-Aylmer runs November 28 to December 7, transforming rue Principale into a pedestrian holiday village filled with more than 50 vendors, twinkling lights, and seasonal entertainment. On November 29, the Santa Claus Parade brings over 30 illuminated floats down rue Principale, from Front to Wilfrid-Lavigne, in a community celebration of light and tradition.

Also November 29, the Lord Aylmer Christmas Bazaar at 116 avenue Frank-Robinson offers over 40 vendors and young entrepreneurs from 9 am to 2 pm, plus a pancake breakfast, chili lunch, bake sale, kids' crafts, raffles, and photos with Santa.

November 22 marks the Marché de Noël du Plateau at l’Agora, 35 allée de Hambourg, from 2 pm to 8 pm. Artisans showcase holiday decorations, jewellery, sweets, and more. At 6 pm, the 30-foot Christmas tree will light up to the sound of a choir and holiday music. Donations of non-perishable items for BASE are welcomed.

November 23 brings the Marché de Noël de Templeton to 159 rue Maple from 10 am to 4 pm, with local foods, artisan crafts, and family-friendly activities in a festive, community-first atmosphere.

From November 22 to December 24, the LPG Christmas Market at Les Promenades Gatineau features a rotating lineup of Outaouais food producers in the La Baie courtyard, including local maple farms, chocolatiers, and wineries. Regional gift boxes are available in limited quantities.

The Canadian Museum of History hosts its annual Marché de Noël from November 27 to 30, with nearly 100 exhibitors inside the Grand Hall and Douglas Cardinal Salon. Hours are 11 am to 8 pm Thursday and Friday, 9 am to 5 pm on the weekend. Entry is free.

Polyvalente le Carrefour opens its market on November 30 from 9 am to 4 pm at 75 boulevard des Hautes-Plaines, with more than 60 vendors selling preserves, prints, wood toys, winter gear, and artisan gifts.

December 7 offers two notable events: the Centre Meredith Christmas Market at 23 chemin Cecil in Chelsea from 10 am to 4 pm, and Marché de Noël du Village Rivièra at École secondaire du Versant, 808 boulevard de la Cité, from 10 am to 3 pm.

The season closes in Wakefield on December 14, where the Fairbairn House outdoor market at 45 Wakefield Heights Road runs from 11 am to 4 pm with sleigh rides, hot drinks, and local goods under the open sky.

In every corner of the region, these markets reflect a growing shift toward community-based commerce. Each purchase not only supports a neighbour, it helps sustain the local economy, preserve craft traditions, and make the holidays more meaningful, one handmade gift at a time.