Sophia Cole: Yes, it’s worth it
The Toronto Christmas Market is a staple trip for any holiday enthusiast.
Not only is it full of amazing treats, cute gifts and Instagram-worthy views, but it is an embodiment of holiday spirit at its finest.
The Toronto Christmas Market brings together everything we love about the holidays in one place to create the ultimate holiday experience.
It is a much-needed light in the (sometimes bitterly) cold, dark winter nights.
It gives people something to look forward to during a time of year that can be stressful, and at times depressing.
Especially when the lack of vitamin D starts to hit you and those winter blues kick in.
Somehow, despite the large crowds and cold weather, you would be hard pressed to find an unhappy guest at the Christmas market.
It’s about taking a break from your often hectic life and taking the time to get into the holiday spirit with the people who you love, sharing laughs and making memories.
Something about the atmosphere just radiates happiness, and it’s more than just the free food and drink samples.
Although that certainly helps, too.
While some may think it’s over-hyped or “basic,” I would argue that those people are missing the point.
It’s not about getting the perfect photo for Instagram.
It’s about taking a break from your often hectic life and taking the time to get into the holiday spirit with the people who you love, sharing laughs and making memories.
There’s a reason why the event is so highly anticipated and widely attended year after year.
It lives up to its hype and always comes through when it comes to delivering magical holiday feels like those you get on Christmas morning.
Kathleen McCullough: Nah, save your money
Every year around this time and into December, my Instagram feed is filled with the lit-up tree or the Gooderham and Worts Limited sign in the distillery district for the Toronto Christmas market.
There are huge crowds every year that are there to specifically capture that picture perfect moment.
All while at least 30 others join to take the exact same photo to share on their social media accounts as well.
I have had the privilege to go to the market and there are many just like it.
There are hundreds of Christmas markets just like the one here in Uptown Waterloo and in the greater Toronto area.
Many of the vendors over price their holiday gifts and the food in the surrounding restaurants can easily rake up a bit of a tab.
These other markets are just as special and can bring the same holiday spirit into your life.
The Toronto Christmas market is difficult to do when you’re on a student budget.
Of course, there are some free samples, including hot chocolate.
But many of the vendors over price their holiday gifts and the food in the surrounding restaurants can easily rake up a bit of a tab.
Not to mention the market comes with a price to get in on weekends.
Although, depending on your schedule, you can make a trip on weekdays when it is free.
No hate to anyone that goes, as we all just want to enjoy some holiday spirit with our loved ones during this time of year.
It just isn’t my favourite place to be this time of year.
