10 dog-friendly Christmas markets to visit in 2023
Published November 23, 2023.
Mondou Team
Pet well-being specialist
This year, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by exploring Quebec's Christmas markets with your dog! These places transform into bustling villages, filled with an array of unique artisan crafts. To make sure your visit goes smoothly, keep the following in mind:
- Make sure your dog feels at ease in a crowd. These events often attract a lot of people, and space might be tight.
- Music can be loud and flashing lights can disturb sensitive dogs. Pay attention to your dog's comfort level.
- Don't forget to protect its paws from the cold. As you go around the stands, you'll alternate between periods of walking and standing still. Keep a close eye on its paws to make sure they don't freeze!
Charlevoix
Baie-Saint-Paul Christmas Market
With family or friends, come and stock up on gifts and local products in a convivial atmosphere filled with holiday magic! Visit the Exhibitors' Village in a traditional Charlevoix atmosphere, or head to the Indoor Village to discover local merchants in a family-style setting. Music, dance and tale-telling will enhance your experience at the Baie-Saint-Paul Christmas Market!
- Date: From December 1st to December 10th, 2023
- Location: Outdoor village: in the church parking lot | Indoor village: Carrefour Culturel Paul-Médéric
- Additional information: Baie-Saint-Paul Christmas Market [French only]
Lanaudière
Joliette Christmas Market
A not-to-be-missed winter event that brings together Lanaudière's agri-food industry, traditional music and culture, the Joliette Christmas Market will be lighting up the city centre throughout December. What's more, it's the only Christmas Market where your dog can meet Santa Claus. On Saturday 9 December, between noon and 4.30 pm, head to Santa's house with your pooch!
- Date: From November 30th to December 23rd, 2023
- Location: Joliette town centre, Place Bourget
- Additional information: Joliette Christmas Market [French only]
L’Assomption Christmas Market
A European-inspired winter event, the L'Assomption Christmas Market is a must during the holiday season, committed to promoting local shopping and community spirit. Please note that dogs are only allowed in outdoor areas and must be kept on a leash.
- Date: From November 30th to December 23rd, 2023
- Location: along Ange-Gardien Boulevard
- Additional information: L’Assomption Christmas Market
Laurentides
Mirabel Christmas Market
This unforgettable winter event is sure to enchant you. You'll be able to experience the magic of Christmas as you stroll around the wooden stands while enjoying the hustle and bustle inside the cultural centre. Please note that dogs are welcome outdoors only.
- Date: From November 25th to December 17th, 2023
- Location: at the Centre Culturel du Domaine-Vert Nord
- Additional information: Mirabel Christmas Market [French only]
Laval
Laval Christmas Market
Discover the talents of local artisans and make some great finds during your holiday shopping. You can also enjoy a wide range of free activities during your visit.
- Date: From December 1st to 3rd and from December 8th to 10th, 2023
- Location: at the Centre de la nature
- Additional information: Laval Christmas Market [French only]
Montérégie
Saint-Hyacinthe Christmas Market
Each weekend is unique and well worth a visit! There are 3 different themes to choose from, in a cosy, magical atmosphere.
- Date: From December 1st to 3rd, from December 8th to 10th, and from December 15th to 17th, 2023
- Location: at 1555 Marché public
- Additional information: Saint-Hyacinthe Christmas Market [French only]
Montreal
The Great Christmas Market
Take part in the cultural, festive and culinary activities taking place in Montreal during the holiday season and celebrate the delightful Nordicity of the city. The public can be enchanted by one of the 30 chalets of local or regional artisans, by the musical and theatrical programming or by the sweet smell of mulled wine, among other delicacies.
- Date: From November 25th to December 30th, 2023
- Location: at the Quartier des spectacles
- Additional information: The Great Christmas Market
Outaouais
Christmas in Old-Aylmer
Organized for several years, the parade and the Christmas market in the Aylmer sector draws crowds from the entire area! More than 55 vendors on site over the 2 weekends offering amazing creations or delicious treats. Dogs must be kept on a leash.
- Date: From November 24th to December 3rd, 2023
- Location: at the Memorial Park, at the corner of Principale st and Park st.
- Additional information: Christmas in Old-Aylmer
Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Saguenay's European Christmas Market
The Saguenay European Christmas Market is a magnificent little village of 32 typical wooden huts, set in an enchanting illuminated decor inspired by the great European markets. Everything is set up for a unique and magical experience: illuminated Christmas trees, wood-burning fireplaces, choirs, Santa Claus, and inviting stands run by local craftspeople and producers offering hundreds of gift ideas.
- Date: From November 30th to December 3rd, and from December 7th to 10th, 2023
- Location: at Place du Citoyen in downtown Chicoutimi
- Additional information: Saguenay's European Christmas Market [French only]
Québec
Québec City German Christmas Market
With its colorful lights, traditional wooden kiosks and free activities for the whole family, the Québec City German Christmas Market offers its visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Colorful and spontaneous performances, original gift ideas, tasting of German and local products, free activities for children, Christmas music and choirs; everything is here to immerse you in the magic of the holidays!
- Date: From November 23rd to December 17th, 2023
- Location: 5 sites in in the heart of Old Québec
- Additional information: Québec City German Christmas Market