Three Winter Markets You Don’t Want to Miss
Written by: Tuleen Tayeh, 5th Year Health Science Specialization and Psychology Major
Photo by: Syda Productions on Adobe
Winter has officially arrived at Western, and this year campus is buzzing with more festive energy than ever. Whether you're trying to find the perfect gift, indulge in a treat that feels like a warm hug, or simply escape studying before your brain turns into a snow globe, these markets are ready to sleigh your expectations. Each one has its own vibe, its own community, and its own reason to stop by, so here’s your friendly guide to everything happening this December.
Western Winter Market at the SEI Building
Kick off the winter season with the Western Winter Market, happening Tuesday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Ronald D. Schmeichel Building for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. This market is your one-stop shop for cozy treats, unique gifts, and a festive dose of campus cheer. Whether you’re grabbing a last-minute present or just treating yourself after a long day of classes, this market brings a little magic to your winter week.
Expect a lively atmosphere with 25+ Western-run and Western-founded businesses showcasing handcrafted goods, tasty snacks, and seasonal delights. Special guests from the Faculty of Music, Radio Western, and United Way will be joining, adding extra energy and community connection throughout the day. And yes, there will be hot chocolate and goodies!
Admission is free, so bring your friends, your holiday cheer, and maybe a reusable bag or two for all your finds. It’s a fantastic way to support the Western community, explore creative offerings, and soak in the holiday spirit, all without leaving campus.
For all the details, check out the official Winter Market event page.
Indigenous Winter Market at the Wampum Learning Lodge
Photo Source: Douglas Tulett (Office of Indigenous Initiatives)
A few days later, Western hosts another meaningful tradition: the Indigenous Winter Market, offering a completely different, intentional experience. This market is perfect if you’re looking for gifts that are personal, cultural, handcrafted, and rooted in stories. Every vendor brings something unique, and every purchase supports Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs whose work reflects teachings, practices, and traditions passed down across generations.
Join us on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a celebration of Indigenous artistry, creativity, and entrepreneurship at the Wampum Learning Lodge (1137 Western Road, London). With free admission and parking, everyone is welcome to explore and support 20 incredible Indigenous creators, artisans, and businesses this holiday season.
Shopping at this market isn’t just about buying something, it’s about engaging with Indigenous culture, supporting makers in our own community, and learning about the craftsmanship behind each piece. Many items are sustainable, natural, and handmade, which makes them thoughtful gifts (or honestly, gifts for yourself).
Some featured vendors include:
- Antler River Leather – handmade wallets, keychains, bracelets, and cases
- Guided By Our Gifts – ribbon skirts, beaded earrings, and sewn accessories
- Veronica Fare – book sleeves, notebook covers, ornaments, and other literary-themed items
- Handcrafted by Nangoohns Kwe – beautiful birchbark beaded art
- Our Medicines – resin jewellery made with sage, cedar, tobacco, and sweetgrass
Lauren from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives summarized the spirit of this event perfectly: “The Indigenous Winter Market at the Wampum Learning Lodge is more than a shopping experience – it’s an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous cultures, support local Indigenous artisans, and find meaningful gifts that tell a unique story.”
This market is warm, welcoming, and filled with community - it’s a perfect way to shop consciously while celebrating Indigenous culture. For full details, check out the official Indigenous Winter Market event page.
Western’s First-Ever Holiday Market
Have you ever wanted a little extra holiday cheer right on campus? Well, you’re in luck. Western is hosting its first-ever Holiday Market on December 9–10, 2025, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the top of UC Hill. This brand new campus tradition is set to bring warmth community and celebration to the heart of Western, perfectly timed for the last days of classes when we could all use a breather before finals officially begin.
As you walk up UC Hill, the whole area transforms into a holiday village filled with festive huts, warm snacks, and twinkling lights. Think Sweet Treats, Snack Shack goodies, Cozy Corner comforts, and Santa’s Shed surprises. IGAB is even being decorated to look like Santa’s workshop, which feels like the most wholesome plot twist of exam season. I know I’ll be heading straight for the giant snow globe and a cup of hot chocolate. After a long semester it feels like exactly the kind of creature comforts we all need.
There’s so much going on: live carolers, marching band pop-ups, Beavertails, holiday drinks, and a Silent Night Disco if you’re brave enough to dance in your winter jacket. A giant snow globe is there for photos, patio heaters are set up to warm freezing hands, and photographers will be capturing everything. It’s inspired by classic European Christmas markets - but with a very Western twist.
This event is open to Western students, staff, and faculty, and it’s a great chance to unwind before finals hit. Grab a free hot chocolate, snap some festive photos with friends, and enjoy the cozy setup. It’s meant to be a feel-good space for the whole Western community.
For all the details, including a map of market huts and additional event information, check out the official Western University Holiday Market page. Admission is free and attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to support local food banks. Be sure to arrive early to explore everything, enjoy live performances, and fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
Your December at Western, Wrapped Up
No matter which market you visit, or if you make it to all three, you’re in for a season full of cozy treats, unique gifts, and good vibes. From the festive flurry of the Schmeichel Winter Market, to the meaningful artistry of the Indigenous Winter Market, and the sparkling magic of Western’s first-ever Holiday Market, there’s something for everyone. So grab your friends, your holiday cheer, and maybe a hot chocolate (or two), and make the most of Western’s festive December. Happy shopping and happy holidays!
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