One of the largest markets in Toronto, the St Lawrence Market is sure to tantalize your senses as this place is filled with the sight and aroma of mouth watering food of all types. Over the years, the market has grown considerably and has begun to sell non food items as well. The St Lawrence Market began in the year of 1803 when the governor of that time, Peter Hunter, declared the area of Jarvis, Front and Church Streets to be the ‘Market Block’. Today, this unique market is made up of 3 buildings in total.
The section titled the South Market sells both food and non food items. There are over 50 vendors specializing in the sale of a certain product and have gained a reputation among people for the fresh quality of food items sold. Products like vegetables, fruits, grains, fish, meats, baked goods and dairy produce can easily be purchased at the lower levels of this market. The second level of the South Market is known as the Market Gallery which is home to Toronto’s authorized exhibition place for the City of Toronto Archives. Visitors can view artifacts, paintings, maps, photos and important documents amid other stuff from the city’s archives.
The North Market at the St Lawrence Market mainly holds what is known as the Saturday Farmers’ Market. Since the year 1803, farmers from South Ontario bring in fresh quality produce to be sold on this day at the market. You will be able to pick up fruits, vegetables and beautiful flowers from here. Every Sunday, the North Market also comes alive with antique sales as dealers display their interesting offerings. Additionally, there is a 10,000 square feet space available for rent. If you are lucky, upon visiting the North Market, you will be able to enjoy the likes of a flea market, an exhibition or a social gathering taking place at this spot.
Visitors tired after walking around can have a drink or snack at the North Market’s St Lawrence Snack Bar, whilst there is also a pub called Paddington Pump towards the front of the market. As the market tends to get packed with shoppers especially on Saturdays, a Children’s Activity Center is open for parents to make use of on this particular day.
The St Lawrence Market has also been the site of many annual festivals and celebrations. Events like Woofstock which is a festival for dogs and the Strawberry Social Festival has been held here for many years.
Travellers vacationing in Toronto should stop over and experience the vibrancy and tantalizing feel of the St Lawrence Market. If you are looking for a
Toronto luxury hotel to stay in, the
Shangri-La Hotel, Toronto, is the perfect choice for both business and leisure travellers. This well placed hotel provides a contemporary and relaxing base to enjoy a memorable vacation.