PHOTOS AND STORY BY BROOKLYN FELL
Santa Claus came to town last night, and welcoming him was the fifth annual Downtown Brampton Christmas Market. Located at the Garden Square, in front of the Rose Theatre, were various activities, vendors and live entertainment. The festive activities included gift-wrapping, Christmas cookie decorating, carousel and carriage rides as well as photos with Santa. Admission is free.
“It’s a magical time of the year to see downtown Brampton all lit up with beautiful decorations and window displays,“ says Suzy Godefroy of the Downtown Brampton BIA.
The market is running until Dec. 4, which is two weeks longer than previous years. “We have some really unique one of a kind vendors for the front area of the downtown core,” says Godefroy.
Downtown Brampton has been in the midst of revamping its downtown area for the past couple years. With the creation of the Garden Square, located at the intersection of Main St. and Queen St., downtown Brampton has been a hub for entertainment.
“The Christmas market is a great place for me to bring my family, I think it’s getting everyone into the holiday spirit,” says 32-year-old Brampton resident Harpreet Singh.
Vendors for the event ranged from knickknacks and fashionable items including jewellery and fur wear, and also included various food vendors in the Food Alley. “Between the Christmas market, Santa Claus parade and the annual tree lighting ceremony it seems like downtown Brampton is the place to be,” says Singh.
Many have drawn comparisons to the Toronto Christmas market in the Distillery District, but the Brampton BIA has made the its Christmas market distinctly its own, with unique charm.
“It’s a real tradition for the residents of Brampton, and a great opportunity for the BIA to showcase our downtown core and bring everyone together,” says Godefroy.
If you’re unable to walk or take transit there is ample parking at City Hall, Nelson Square, John St., and Rose Theatre. Parking is free at these garages after 7 p.m.
For more information including schedules and full list of vendors visit Downtown Brampton BIA.
