It's already that time of year again! The Halloween decorations have barely been removed from the shelves of your local Dollarama and now it's time to dig the Christmas lights out of your basement (or maybe they're still up from last year) and deck the halls. If you're looking for ways to shop local this year or just want to get into the spirit of the holiday season, check out some of these exciting markets, fairs and festivals taking place in the GTA!

1. Taste of Iceland

WHEN: November 1st - 5th, 2018

WHERE: Pong Bar, Lẽna, The Hideout, The Royal Cinema

ADMISSION: Varies by Event

This festival takes place at various locations around the city; you can enjoy a screening of the Iceland Premier Film “Shortfish”, taste some traditional dishes prepared by Icelandic Chefs and Mixologists, attend a social business mixer on Bay Street, or check out some Icelandic musicians!

2. Royal Winter Agricultural Fair

WHEN: November 2nd - 11th, 2018

WHERE: Exhibition Place

ADMISSION: $27.50 (Regular Adult)

Celebrate local Canadian Agriculture this holiday season with a visit to the Royal Winter Agricultural Fair! This event offers lots of local art, outdoor wear, jams, drinks and more. Shop around and then take in a horse show (additional admission fees apply), dog show or pet some alpacas :)

3. Toronto Christmas Market

WHEN: November 15th - December 23rd, 2018

WHERE: Distillery District

ADMISSION: FREE Weekdays, $6.00 Friday after 5 pm & Weekends

Whimsical Christmas lights, outdoor vendors selling unique merchandise, midway rides, a plethora of street food and beverages. When you’re ready to escape the chilly winter weather, enjoy the shops and pubs of the distillery or grab a hot chocolate at Soma!

4. Santa Claus Parade

WHEN: November 18, 2018

WHERE: Downtown Toronto

ADMISSION: FREE

In addition to getting a glimpse of Santa himself, you can also take part in the Holly Jolly Fun Run, a 5K run that follows the parade route and encourages holiday spirit in the city of Toronto. This run takes place 45 minutes before the parade itself, and ends in Maple Leaf Square.

5. One of a Kind Show & Sale

WHEN: November 22nd - December 2nd, 2018

WHERE: Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place

ADMISSION: $15.00 (Adult)

This is a great place to do your Christmas shopping AND support small/local businesses! If you’re looking for unique products and handmade gifts this season you won’t want to miss this one.

6. Cavalcade of Lights

WHEN: November 24th, 2018

WHERE: Nathan Phillips Square

ADMISSION: FREE

Celebrate the holidays with live music, the grand lighting of the Christmas tree and a display of fireworks. Don’t forget your skates!

7. Toronto Chanukah Market

WHEN: November 25th, 2018

WHERE: The Warehouse at Downsview Park, North York

ADMISSION: $10.00

Enjoy traditional Jewish cuisine, food preparation demonstrations and shop from local vendors for Holiday gifts!

8. Aurora Winter Festival

WHEN: November 29th -December 30th , 2018

WHERE: Ontario Place (East Island)

ADMISSION: $19.99

Prepare to be transported to the North Pole! This New-To-Toronto winter festival promises to enchant visitors with a dazzling northern lights LED display, rides, food trucks and holiday market vendors.

9. Nathan Phillips “Fair in the Square”

WHEN: December 1st - 23rd, 2018

WHERE: Nathan Phillips Square

ADMISSION: FREE

You can shop at the Artisan Village, try some tasty food from vendors, skate in the rink, enjoy the midway or have a drink at Polar Point.