
🎄 From 700 Sq. Ft. to 11,000: How Our Little Leslieville Market Became a Holiday Tradition
It’s hard to believe that when the Leslieville Christmas Pop-Up Market began back in 2014, it all fit inside a cozy 700 sq. ft. space with just 11 vendors — local makers, bakers, and dreamers who believed that Leslieville needed a holiday market of its own.
That first weekend was magic. There were twinkly lights, the scent of fresh pine and cinnamon, and enough festive spirit to fill the whole east end. People came bundled in scarves, sipping hot chocolate, chatting with vendors, and humming along to Christmas music. It was small — but it had heart.
Fast forward to today, and that heart has grown tenfold. The market now spans an incredible 11,000 sq. ft., featuring over 60 vendors, 50 community volunteers, and thousands of cheerful shoppers who make this event a true east end holiday tradition.
Every year, we’ve expanded — not just in size, but in soul. From handmade ornaments and artisanal jams to gourmet hot chocolate and winter florals, every booth tells a story. The best part? Many of our vendors started small right here in Leslieville and have grown their businesses alongside us.

Hosting this event has always been about more than shopping. It’s about community, connection, and Christmas spirit— all wrapped up in one cozy, bustling market weekend.
So whether you’ve been coming since that very first market or you’re new to the magic, we can’t wait to welcome you back this year. Bring your friends, your family, and your festive energy — because Leslieville knows how to do Christmas right.
✨ Hosted by Eastside Events — proud to be part of Leslieville’s holiday story since 2014.
Leave A Comment
Related Posts
Let’s be honest: “Shop local” has become the pumpkin spice latte of community slogans — warm, comforting, and everywhere this time of year. We post it, we say it, we nod enthusiastically at markets with tote bags that literally say it. But do we actually do it?
There’s something about a holiday market that just fits in a place like Leslieville. Maybe it’s the charm of heritage brick buildings, the entrepreneurial energy that fills every corner, or
It’s mid-October in Toronto, the leaves are barely orange, and yet—somewhere—a friend has already posted a photo of their peppermint latte captioned “tis the season!”

