As Toronto shakes off the last remnants of winter, arts and vendor markets blossom in the city, taking over community spaces, empty warehouses, and public parks.
From handmade crochet flowers to curated vintage clothing, local artisans from around the city come together to showcase their best work. Arts markets are the perfect occasion to hang out with friends, go on a first date, and maybe buy something you never knew you needed.
Here are five arts markets to attend this spring in Toronto:
Good Friends Market
- Date: April 25 and 26
- Location: 952 Queen St. W
Good Friends Market is a queer-run vendor market founded by Quintin Ermes that prides itself in providing a space for small and independently run brands to showcase their work. The market sells a variety of handmade and local goods, such as jewellery, candles, art prints, baked goods and more. The spring edition of Good Friends Market will be held at 952 Queen St. W on April 25 and 26.
Mako Sea Side Art Market
- Date: May 9
- Location: 1605 Queen St. W
Mako Sea Side Art Market is for Torontonians who love cute and creative things. Mako is short for “Mahal Ko,” which means “my love” in Tagalog. The market was founded by Geann Gamboa and is a community-driven event for artists and hand-made goods. The Sea Side Market on May 9 at The Parkdale Hall will have cute art, jewellery, keychains, plushies, stickers, and more.
Toronto Artisan Market
- Date: May 10
- Location: 790 Queen St. W
The Toronto Artisan Market is a non-profit organization that supports local artists, artisans and the local community. The market holds several seasonal events throughout the year, with the next event being held on May 10 at Trinity Bellwoods Park. From candles to knitwear to silver jewellery, you’ll certainly find something to brighten your day.
The Welcome Market’s Asian Heritage Month Celebration
- Date: May 9 and 10
- Location: 5100 Yonge St.
To celebrate Asian Heritage Month, The Welcome Market is partnering with the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto to host a vendor market on May 9 and 10 at Mel Lastman Square in North York. Admission is free and Torontonians will be able to shop over 95 local businesses that sell food, vintage goods, handmade crafts, and art. There will also be over 16 live performances across the two days. More information about the event can be found here.
Goth Pride Market
- Date: June 20
- Location: 1279 Queen St. W
On Saturday, June 20, the Toronto Dark Arts Market will be holding its Goth Pride Market at Ground Control to celebrate the city’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The event will have over 35 artists and artisans that make dark, alternative goods. The event is mostly family friendly.
