Toronto is getting a free Winter Village at Evergreen Brickworks

The Evergreen Winter Village debuts on Saturday, December 10th this year making the scenic and snowy setting in the Don Valley a destination for pre- and post-holiday fun.

Here are five very good reasons to bundle up and get outside this winter at the Evergreen Brick Works.

Skating

A photo posted by Rumble In The Congrete Jungle (@rumbleth) on Feb 27, 2016 at 7:00pm PST

The open-air skating rink at the Evergreen Brick Works weaves and winds through snow-capped gardens inside old, ceilingless brick factory buildings.

Not only is public skating free throughout the week, but skating lessons are available for all levels and ages. There’s even an adult drop-in for those who want to perfect the ultra-Canadian pass time with the help of experienced instructors.

Shopping at the Holiday Makers Market

This outdoor holiday crafts market, presented in partnership with Etsy Canada, is an excellent spot to shop locally-crafted gifts. Expected new vendors daily in advance of the holidays, plus an end-of-season sale on between December 26 and January 8.

Fat Bike Rides

Offered weekends in the winter months (Christmas and New Year’s weekends are the exception), this guided two-hour ride ($10) departs from Sweet Pete’s at 1 pm.

The bicycles are outfitted with super-wide, knobby tires that can handle all sorts of terrain, including snowy, icy trails and are available for rent for $35.

Street Foods

The Street Food Market at the Winter Village boasts more than 15 vendors hawking delicious eats ranging from arepas and bao to burgers, seafood, BBQ and more.

The line-up of participating vendors changes daily but may include, The Arepa Republic, Bao is Life, Burgatory, Canto Sando, Chorizos La Abuela, Delight Bite, Eva’s Original Chimneys, The Grand Electric, Heirloom, Hogtown Smoke, Indian Street Food Co. Inc., Jamie Kennedy Kitchen, Little Fin, Los Vietnamita, Magic Oven, Pasta Tucci, Raclette, Rebozos, TC Momo, The Hopper Couple, The Spicy Ethiopian, Wafel Bar.

Once you’ve got your order in hand, cozy up by the campfire or snag a picnic table to dine.

Weekend Farmers’ Market

While most Toronto farmers’ markets go on hiatus in the colder months, the Brick Works is on year-round. Expect to find one of the largest selections of local and seasonal foods in the city.

See also

• 7 must-see holiday festivals in small towns near Toronto
• Toronto's gayest Christmas market is back
• 19 photos of the Toronto Christmas Market that will make you want to go ASAP

Evergreen Winter Village

When: December 10 to 23, weekdays 3 pm to 7 pm, weekends 11 am to 7 pm; December 26 to January 8, week-round 11 am to 6 pm; January 9 to February 28, weekends 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Avenue, Toronto
Price: Admission is free