Some claim the most festive Christmas markets exist in wintry Finland. It would be appropriate, as the Finnish town of Rovaniemi, deep in Lapland, proudly declares itself the official home of Santa Claus.

Thankfully, there is no need to go international to experience an authentic Scandinavian holiday market. A slice of yuletide Finland exists at Niemi Family Farm in Mount Albert, an hour north of Toronto.

From late November through December, Niemi Family Farm is wrapped in holiday cheer as it hosts its annual Christmas Market (Fridays and Saturdays, starting Nov. 13).

The Christmas Market is divided into two zones, one free and the other with an entrance fee.

Christmas Market

The free experience is the market itself – both outdoor in traditional wooden stalls draped in greenery, and indoors out of the elements – where you can browse the offerings of over 60 local vendors, all selling unique artisanal items, perfect for gift giving. Ward off the chill with hot chocolate, apple cider, or glögi, a delightful warmed Finnish drink that is like mulled wine but non-alcoholic.
Follow your nose to the bakery and its assortment of cookies, gingersnaps, and other sweets. You must try pulla, a Finnish braided holiday sweet bread. It smells as heavenly as it tastes.

There are yet more shopping experiences. Those with a sweet tooth will want to visit CandyLand with its shelves lined by specialty sweets and chocolates from both Europe and North America. The Scandinavian Store is filled with tastes of Finland, and the Gnome Shop is overflowing with Christmas tree ornaments, décor, gift items, maple syrup, and local honey.

Gnome Ville

For an even more festive experience, purchase a ticket and follow a beautifully lit trail to Gnome Ville, the second market experience.
Admission is $29.99 for adults, $19.99 for children (2-12) and seniors, infants enter free. A family pass (two adults, two children) is $79.99

Admission grants access to a wide range of family-friendly activities. Ride the farm’s Christmas Train, which takes you around the farm while playing the Christmas Story; explore a secret forest where gnomes (tontuu in Finnish folklore) reside; take photos at a number of festive vignettes; head over to the workshop to enjoy a visit with merry Santa Claus; decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus; roast s’mores; and visit with barnyard animals like sheep, goats, and bunnies.

Don’t leave Niemi’s without selecting the perfect Christmas tree upon which to hang sparkling lights and dazzling ornaments. The farm has a huge selection of pre-cut trees to choose from.

Hitch up the team and point your sleigh for Niemi’s Family Farm to find your Christmas spirit.

Just the Facts

Niemi Family Farm
Location: 18443 Highway 48, Mount Albert
niemifamilyfarm.ca