Holiday markets, Christmas cocktail specials, customized ornaments, live entertainment, the remarkable Tinseltown, and other sweet surprises are just some of what you will find in Old Town Toronto this December and January. Scroll on to discover all this and more. As always, thanks for supporting local 🙂

Happy Holidays!


Sunday Variety Holiday Market

Sunday Variety will take over the tent space 125 The Esplanade on December 3, 10 & 17 for special holiday editions of their popular vintage, antiques, and crafts market! Shoppers can expect a unique range merchants and vendors, including artisan goods, home décor, vintage clothing, collectibles, gourmet snacks and more. This event is organized by the team behind the wildly popular Hippie Market pop-ups throughout Toronto. For more information on the Sunday Variety vintage market, visit www.sundayvariety.com.

St. Lawrence Market
93 Front Street East, 416-392-7219
www.stlawrencemarket.com
Instagram: @stlawrencemarket
Tues – Fri: 9am – 7pm.
Sat: 7am – 5pm.
Sun: 10am – 5pm.
Mon: Closed


Martinis and Mistletoe Specials at Pravda Vodka Bar

Get ready to celebrate the holiday season in style! Indulge in the finest selection of martinis, expertly crafted by our talented mixologists. Introducing our Christmas Specials with fabulous deals on martinis, cocktails, and appetizers.

Join us every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9pm – 2am for spectacular live entertainment, the finest selection of vodkas in town, and festive booths with no minimum spend.

Pravda is available for private bookings 7 days a week. Get your queries in now to secure your slot for the holidays: info@pravdavodkabar.com

Pravda Vodka Bar
44, Wellington St E, 416-366-0303
www.pravdavodkabar.com
Instagram: @pravdavodkabar
Thurs – Sat: 9pm – 2am


Customizable Shatterproof Ball Ornament with Gift Box
available from Artik

Add a touch of personal flair to your company’s holiday season with our customizable Christmas ornament! Perfect for capturing special moments or showcasing your brand, this ornament offers a 1/4″ imprint area for a one-color design, ideal for your unique message or logo. It’s a beautiful addition to any Christmas tree or as a standalone festive decoration. Additionally, the ornament is presented in a stylish gift box, making it perfect for gifting. It’s an excellent choice for corporate gifts, family keepsakes, or event mementos. Elevate your holiday décor or give a gift that’s genuinely personal with our customizable Christmas ornaments!

Artik
314 Adelaide St E, 416-815-7770
www.artik.com/
Instagram: @artiktoronto
Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm


Give the Gift of Movement

This holiday season, treat yourself and someone you love to the gift of movement. The versatility of Pilates makes it accessible to every body. Rebalance Pilates is a private Pilates studio specializing in injury prevention and recovery, high-level fitness and prenatal/postpartum fitness. Rebalance Pilates has gift cards available for our 3-class introductory packages and 5-class packages. Fall in love with movement. Fall in love with Pilates.

Rebalance Pilates
75 Sherbourne Street, 416-894-8553
www.rebalancepilates.ca


The Studio Open Mic

Step into the spotlight at The Studio Open Mic! Join us on December 9th at Alumnae’s 3rd-floor Studio (70 Berkeley St, Toronto, ON M5A 2W6). Doors open at 7:00PM and entry is FREE.

Experience an unforgettable evening of talent and entertainment at The Studio Open Mic, hosted by Alumnae Theatre Company. Whether you’re interested in performing or simply taking in the show, there is something for everyone!

Indulge in libations and snacks from our on-site bar as you chill, mingle, and savour the delightful combination of entertainment and refreshments.

Whether you’re a comedian, poet, musician, drag artist, dancer, magician, possess a talent of any kind, or simply looking to belt out some karaoke with your friends, this is your chance to shine! Advanced sign-ups go live at the end of November, or if you’re feeling inspired, on-the-spot sign-ups are welcome.

Just bring your passion and join us for a night of incredible performances and supportive vibes. See you at The Studio Open Mic!

Alumnae Theatre
70 Berkeley St, 416-364-4170
www.alumnaetheatre.com
Instagram: @alumnaetheatre


Tinseltown is back again
– this time at Novotel Toronto Centre!

From November 30 – Dec 24, escape to a Festive Holiday Wonderland and enjoy specialty cocktails with friends and loved ones.

Tickets: https://viralventuresusa.ticketspice.com/tinsel-town-toronto

Note: This event is strictly 19+ only. Under 19s can attend family friendly sessions!

Novotel Toronto Centre
45 The Esplanade, 416-367-8900
www.novoteltorontocentre.com
Facebook: @novoteltoronto


Get Holiday ready with Wildlife Thrift Store!

The holiday season is upon us! Wildlife Thrift Store is the one stop shop for all your festive needs, whether you’re looking for that perfect gift for that special someone, searching for the sparkliest holiday decor for your home or trying to find a treat for yourself!

Shop small and support local with our special December promotion. After your visit at the Distillery District’s Winter Village show us your admission ticket and get 10% off your purchase at checkout! (exceptions may apply)

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Open everyday 10am – 8pm


Advent Wreaths
at Ginkgo Floral Design

Imagine the chestnuts roasting, Christmas cake baking in the oven and people gathered around a cosy fireplace with a hot beverage in hand…

These one of a kind, customizable Advent Wreaths make the perfect gift for family and friends to enjoy over the festive season. The perfect centerpiece to brighten up any room and share the Joy of the Holidays with your loved ones.

Handmade instore by our lead designer, we use a base of Noble Fir and decorate with a variety of Christmas-themed items. Decorations can include cinnamon sticks, orange slices, red and golden little Christmas ornaments, many different nuts, pine cones, and red ribbon. Decorative Berries and red or white Christmas candles are used to complete the overall look.

More of a silver than gold lover? Prefer tall candles to short? Never worry – here at Ginkgo Floral Design we can customize your advent wreath to complement your home decor or personal preferences. Our wreaths last up to 3 months and keep their shape when dried with minimal shedding.

Only $79.95, available for pre-order and delivery by calling the store.

Happy Holidays from the Team at Ginkgo Floral!!

Ginkgo Floral Design
222 The Esplanade, 416-640-1209
www.ginkgofloraldesign.com
Instagram: @ginkgofloraldesign


Year End Sale!

You won’t want to miss our year end sale for the month of December! Select frames are up to 40% off. Frames on sale are all from handcrafted eyewear lines and made from natural materials. Come visit and view quality craftsmanship frames today!

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram:
@stlawrenceeyecare
Tues – Sat: 10am – 5pm.


Tatami PRIVATE DINING
at Nami

This Tatami private room can accommodate party of 6 to 22.
Perfect for business events, special occasions and birthday’s !

Dates are filling up fast for holiday parties and get togethers – book now to avoid disappointment!
Our tatami room can comfortably seat 22 people and the entire restaurant can be booked for special events.

Make your parties this year extra special with  Nami!

Nami Japanese Restaurant
55 Adelaide St E, 416-362-7373
Mon – Fri: 11:30am – 2pm.
Mon – Sat: 5pm – 9pm.
Sun: Closed.


It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
– Live on Stage Thru Dec. 30

The true spirit of the season comes to life in this beloved classic, adapted as a 1940’s radio broadcast before a live audience — you and the kids! Enjoy all the fun of live sound effects, retro jingles — and holiday time together.

Tickets only $20 for these select performances*:
• Sunday, Dec 10 at 1:00PM
• Sunday, Dec 17 1:00PM
• Sunday, Dec 17 at 4:00PM

Use Promo Code: WINTER
Purchase tickets online: https://tickets.youngpeoplestheatre.org/TheatreManager/1/login&event=816
Or call: 416.862.2222

About the Show:
Transport yourself to 1945 Bedford Falls, as an ensemble cast of five retells the story as a vintage radio broadcast. Watch as each actor doubles as a foley artist (someone who creates amazing sound effects), producing a playful acoustic backdrop! Recommended for ages 10+. Run time: Approx. 85 minutes.

Learn more here: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/its-a-wonderful-life/

*Subject to availability on select performances. Not applicable to previously purchased tickets. Discount only applies to Orchestra seating and first row Balcony.

Young People’s Theatre
165 Front St E, 416-862-2222
www.youngpeoplestheatre.org
Instagram: @ypttoronto

Mon – Fri: 9am – 5pm
Weekend Box Office hours pertain to performance days only.
Box Office opens one hour before the first show time and closes 30 minutes after the final show time.


December Pre-Holiday Inventory Clearance
at The Chesterfield Shop

Tis The Season….
Last year’s easiest recipes are being thumbnailed, and family & friends are coming!
Is there a more wonderful time of year?

The Chesterfield Shop has a huge selection of Canadian-made IN-STOCK sofa beds, sofas, sectionals, chairs, recliners, ottomans and more – in multiple sizes, including City-Sized Seating.™ We have the best seating to fit your space, decor and comfort!

Next-day Delivery – or choose the best day for you.

Enjoy our special PRE-HOLIDAY INVENTORY CLEARANCE sale, and raise a glass of eggnog to toast the season!

Merry Christmas – from The Chesterfield Shop!

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St. E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm.
Sun: 11am – 5pm.
Check SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS ONLINE!


A Book Lover’s Delight: Leather Bound Classics
from D & E Lake Ltd.

Give the gift of leather bound classics this Christmas! With lovely gilt-stamped leather covers, gilt edges and satin ribbon page markers, these books are sure to delight.

Priced at $40 and up! We have some signed editions available too!

Authors include: Aristotle, Charlotte Bronte, Truman Capote, Daniel Defoe, Alexandre Dumas, William Faulkner, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, John Irving, Jack London, Toni Morrison, Frank Norris, Plato, Shakespeare, John Updike, Kurt Vonnegut & more.

Visit our family-owned Toronto bookstore for something unique and special this Christmas or shop online.

D & E Lake Ltd.
239 King St E, 416-892-0690
www.delakeltd.com/collections/leather-bound-classics
Instagram: @delakeltd
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm.
Sun: 11am – 2:30pm.


Expressing Gratitude and Seeking Support for New Visions Toronto

New Visions Toronto would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the community for their unwavering support towards individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. The organization has been able to provide essential resources that have enabled people to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives. However, more support is required to continue making an impact. Any donation, big or small, can go a long way in helping those in need. The funds will be used to purchase customized beds, iPads to enhance communication skills, and wheelchair accessible vehicles.

Please consider making a donation to New Visions Toronto to enable them to provide these crucial services and positively transform the lives of those who rely on them. Happy Holidays!

New Visions Toronto
222 The Esplanade, Lower Level , Unit 10
289-834-4248
www.newvisionstoronto.ca
Instagram: @newvisionstoronto
9-5 Office Hours


Season of Sweet Surprises
at the Omni King Edward

Join us at the Omni King Edward for time-honoured traditions. Gather your loved ones for a festive feast crafted by our chefs! Join us for Festive Sunday Brunches on December 3rd, 10th, 17th, and Christmas Day Brunch on December 25th, from 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Our chefs are ready to enchant your taste buds with elaborate holiday dinner buffets from 5 pm -10 pm on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, featuring all your festive favourites. Don’t forget to create memories with a stylish New Year’s Day Brunch on January 1st, 2024, 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

For reservations, call 416.945.3323 or email To-Festive@OmniHotels.com.

Transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories with the gift of tranquillity from Mokara Spa because self-care is the greatest gift of all!

Between now and December 31st spend $250 on services or gift cards and receive a $25 gift voucher. *

Book your next appointment by calling 416-863-3131 or visit https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward/spa.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward/things-to-do/upcoming-events
Instagram: @omnikingedward
Open 24/7


Mokka Natural, Colombia. Hawaii farm.

We are exited to introduce our new coffee offers featuring Colombia, Mokka Natural from Cafe Granja La Esperanza, Hawaii farm. Fragrant and exotic-tasting Mokka variety boasts clean tropical flavours with a hint of cocoa fermentation. This variety is difficult to cultivate as it demands extra attention to detail but the results speak for themselves. Medium roasted it’s excellent as pour over. Come try it at our location or get a pack for your home experiments.

Third Wave Coffee Inc
42 Church St
www.thirdwavecoffeeinc.com
Instagram: @thirdwavetoronto
Mon – Fri: 8am-6pm.
Sat & Sun: 9am-6pm.


New Year’s Eve Dinner at Woods!

Celebrate the arrival of the New Year with us at Woods! Indulge in a 5-course menu and enjoy the festivities with our open bar service. Cheers to a night of delectable delights, joyful toasts, and unforgettable memories!

​Tickets are $200/person.
Book via OpenTable anytime between 5:30pm-9pm or email us at info@woodsrestaurant.ca

Woods Restaurant
45 Colborne St, 416-214-9918
Tues – Sat: 5pm – 10pm.
www.woodsrestaurant.ca
Instagram: @woodstoronto


Thai Reflexology Class
at Bahn Thai Spa

Here is your chance to enrol in our 2 day Thai Reflexology course where our Master Practitioner, Orachon Meechai will teach you how to restore balance to the body and mind through the reflexes of the feet in the traditional Thai style using special reflexology sticks.

Bahn Thai Spa
136 Adelaide St, 416-594-3406
https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/ws?studioid=160001&stype=41&sTG=22&prodId=11176
Instagram: @itmtorontoatbahnthaispa

 


Workout with the Sunrise

Do you like an early workout? Need an extra reason to jump out of bed in January? Rebalance Pilates has opened up early morning Pilates sessions on Mondays from 7am – 10am! Rebalance Pilates is a private Pilates studio specializing in injury prevention and recovery, high-level fitness and prenatal/postpartum populations. Pick up a three-class introductory package and workout as the sun rises.
Email to book your session.

Rebalance Pilates
75 Sherbourne Street, 416-894-8553
www.rebalancepilates.ca


BOXING WEEK @thechesterfieldshop!

Yes- it’s finally here – the SALE we have all been waiting for!

Have you been holding out for the perfect sofa-bed, recliner or sofa in City-Size Seating™?
Now’s the time – experience the best and most knowledgeable Sales Associates, incredible selection and Next-Day Delivery…or customize – we are here to make it EASY for you.

And just in- a new sofa-bed that opens and closes “hands-free” with the touch of a wand.
On sale now!
Happy New Year 2024 – and best wishes from The Chesterfield Shop – celebrating 75 years as a family-owned and operated company.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St. E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm.
Sun: 11am – 5pm.
Check SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS ONLINE!


Refresh and Reset at Wildlife Thrift Store

Out with the old and in the new, refresh and reset yourself for the New Year with us! Whether you want to get rid of that old pair of sneakers that’s been sitting in your closet for months or you’re looking to change your style and spruce up your wardrobe with a new pair of funky pants, we’ve got you covered! Our drop off bin is conveniently located at the front of the store right by our entrance. We’ve got new pieces hitting the floor daily!

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Open everyday 10am – 8pm


The Ultimate Customizable Coffee Mug

Discover the ideal fusion of style and practicality with The Ultimate Customizable Coffee Mug, now available for bulk orders. Tailor it with your company logo or message for a superb option as employee gifts or promotional giveaways. This mug boasts a double-walled stainless steel construction with copper lining, ensuring beverages stay warm for hours. Equipped with a spill-proof lid and an ergonomic handle, it provides a functional yet sophisticated means to promote your brand and show appreciation to your team or clients.

Artik
314 Adelaide St E, 416-815-7770
Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm
www.artik.com/
Instagram: @artiktoronto


Winter Vase Arrangements
at Ginkgo Floral Design

Continue the celebrations in your home this January with a timeless, elegant Winter Vase Arrangement. An unforgettable centerpiece for entertaining guests in your beautiful home or send a stunning gift to a loved one. A memory to cherish over the Winter season and for many months to come.

Imagine walking in a snowy forest, inhaling the crisp air and looking around to see the magic that nature brings. This arrangement will bring the outside in!

Featuring seasonal Winter blooms and greenery which may include; lilies, hypericum berries, curly willow, white and pink roses, white football Chrysanthemums, hydrangea, green button chrysanthemums, cymbidium orchids, magnolia leaves, dusty Millar and eucalyptus.

Do you have a favourite seasonal flower that you would like to include? All our vase arrangements are made to order and we love to customise!

Priced at $129.99, we also take pre-orders and deliver within Toronto.

Happy Holidays from the team at Ginkgo Floral Design!!

Ginkgo Floral Design
222 The Esplanade, 416-640-1209
www.ginkgofloraldesign.com
Instagram: @ginkgofloraldesign


Want More?
Discover more local businesses in our Business Directory by clicking here. Everything from sushi to pet care, fitness gyms and tranquil massages… we have it all!


Submissions:
Are you an owner/manager/staff member of a local business located in a commercial property within the boundaries of Old Town Toronto / St Lawrence Market Neighbourhood Business Improvement Area? If you are not receiving an invitation to submit to this monthly blog post, please email stephenm@stlawrencemarketbia.ca and ask to be added to our contacts list. You will need to provide the name of your business, email, and address. Click here to check if you are within our boundaries.


What is a Business Improvement Area?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is made up of commercial and industrial property owners and their non-residential tenants who join together under a volunteer Board of Management (BIA Board) to carry out improvements and promote economic development within their designated area…(click here to continue reading.)

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