There’s a big Christmas market and fair happening all weekend at Nathan Phillips Square, where you can do a number on your Christmas shopping list by picking up goods from local artisans. Also going on this weekend is an incredible human rights film festival featuring inspirational documentaries and live talks with filmmakers, a performance by Juno Award-winning A Tribe Called Red, and a pop-up shop with a good cause. All part of the fun happening this weekend in Toronto, December 9-11.
Holiday Fair in Nathan Phillips Square
If Toronto’s Christmas events so far haven’t gotten you into the Christmas spirit, this one will. It’s a European-style Christmas market including a winter carnival. There are tons of vendors on hand, drinks, food, holiday music and decorations, an ice bar in the evening and skating.
When to go: Today through December 23, 11:30 am-9 pm (opens at 10 am on weekends)
Where at? Nathan Phillips Square
Tickets: Free
5th Annual Human Rights Film Festival
Celebrating some of the most incredible human rights stories on the planet, this event in its fifth year includes talks with notable filmmakers and other guests, and screens some truly inspiring documentaries about human rights across the world.
When to go: Friday, 6 pm; Saturday 3 and 6 pm; Sunday 3 and 6 pm
Where at? Hot Docs Ted Roger Cinema, 506 Bloor W
Tickets: $12 and up, festival passes are $30
A Tribe Called Red
Ever heard of an electric pow wow? A Tribe Called Red is a First Nations group that’s played Coachella, Bonnaroo, Osheaga, AfroPunk and other huge festivals, plus earned Group of the Year at the Junos in 2014. Their sound blends hip hop, electronic music and traditional pow wow drumming.
When to go: Friday, 8 pm
Where at? Rebel, 11 Polson
Tickets: $26.50 and up
Costume House 1st Annual Holiday Pop-Up
See the works from more than 20 local designers, artists and craftspeople while supporting Nellies Women’s Shelter. Pick up some cool threads, skin care, a cup of coffee, eats, and more while giving to a charitable cause.
When to go: Saturday and Sunday, 11 am-7 pm
Where at? 165 Geary
Tickets: Free