The Distillery District, located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, carved out of century-old former distillery buildings, is the site of one of North America’s biggest and most popular Christmas markets. However, you’re likely to find wearable, edible and covetable finds year-round in this dynamic neighborhood lying a 10-minute walk from the landmark St. Lawrence Market. This treasure trove of independently owned boutiques, art galleries and eateries showcases numerous delights designed, made in and, in many cases, available only in Canada. A few standouts:

© Elyse Glickman

Red Canoe
When is a logo tee, sweatshirt or messenger bag more than a souvenir? When it starts a conversation about where you’ve been. The flagship store for this brand not only emblazons its items with Canadian pride but also does it with solid workmanship, tailoring and artistry through eye-catching graphics and patches. The bulk of the stock references the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), CP Railway and other Canadian institutions along with iconic entities from the United States and Britain. While the shop concentrates on casual menswear, it also offers several fun items for women and children.

Liberty Clothing

This eco-friendly clothing line’s website covers a small collection of sustainably crafted sweats, tees and loungewear for men, women and children. However, the inviting and airy boutique reveals a much larger collection and ventures in a more fashion-forward direction. Standout pieces include upcycled jeans, denim jackets and blazers with interesting textile insets and artfully dyed garments.

Maxime Zeaberg © Elyse Glickman

Maxime Zeaberg

This kiosk bursts at the seams with organic cotton dresses, skirts and tops using hand block-print techniques developed in Jaipur and other textile centers of India. There’s a democratic range of sizes as well as beautiful color combinations achieved through inks and dyes naturally sourced and easy on the skin. Bonus: Each purchase is packaged in a block-printed cotton bag that will also draw compliments.

© Elyse Glickman

Corktown Designs

Corktown Designs showcases jewelry and accessories from 75 international artists and designers, but Toronto-based and Canadian artisans stand front and center. Styles run from fine, delicate, everyday pieces to bold statement-making items.

© Elyse Glickman

Food & Drink
The original spirit of this enclave lives on through its craft distilleries, cocktail bars (Spirit of York Distillery, Spirithouse and El Catrin Destileria) and global array of eateries including Pure Spirits Oyster House, Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie, and Madrina Bar y Tapas.