Thank you for your interest in the Museum’s Christmas Market.
The 15th edition of the Christmas Market at the Canadian Museum of History will once again be held in our magnificent Grand Hall, the Haida Gwaii Salon, and the W. E. Taylor Salon. Vendors who prepare food on site for immediate consumption will be located in the Panorama Café at a special rate. Many exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products and unique handmade creations in a beautiful cultural environment, while benefitting from great visibility.
2026 Christmas Market Schedule
Thursday, November 26 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, November 27 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, November 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, November 29 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Criteria
For information regarding the selection criteria and general guidelines, you may refer to the NEW Vendor Guidelines — 2026 Christmas Market (PDF file) and the NEW Code of Conduct — 2026 Christmas Market (PDF file). Please read them carefully before applying, as they have been modified this year.
Evaluation criteria
Please note that participation in last year’s Christmas Market does not guarantee a spot in this year’s event. Each application will be carefully reviewed by a jury, which will assess applications based on the criteria outlined below. To maximize your chances of selection, ensure your application form is complete and includes all required information.
ONLY APPLICANTS ABLE TO PROVIDE FULL BILINGUAL SERVICE DURING THE CHRISTMAS MARKET WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Biography (10%)
- Determines whether the vendor is a small business rather than a franchise or large company.
- Preference is given to independent artisans and small businesses.
Originality of Products (25%)
- Assesses how unique and different the products are.
- If the product is common, is it designed or made in an original way?
Authenticity in Handmade Products (25%)
- Evaluates whether the product is handmade by the artisan, with minimal manufactured components.
- Products should be created by the vendor, not purchased for resale.
Quality of Products (20%)
- Evaluating the overall quality of the products.
- Assessing the quality of materials or ingredients used.
Variety of Products (10%)
- Reviews whether the vendor offers a diverse selection of products to appeal to different buyers.
- Assesses the range and uniqueness of the vendor’s product line.
Price Range (10%)
- Ensures a range of prices to accommodate various budgets.
- Determines whether the pricing structure appeals to a broad audience.
NEW FOR 2026: Dedicated food market
This year, all ready-to-eat food vendors will be featured together in a dedicated and beautifully decorated space in the Museum’s Panorama Café.
Based on visitor feedback and our commitment to enhancing the overall Christmas Market experience, creating a curated culinary destination within the Museum will provide a warm and inviting hub where visitors can pause, gather, enjoy seasonal flavours, and spend more time discovering your offerings.
Bringing our culinary artisans together creates a clear food destination within the Christmas Market, strengthens visibility, and encourages visitors to stay longer.
As we launch this new space, participating vendors will benefit from a preferred introductory rate of $650 for 2026.
Seating areas with festive décor will be provided, along with additional directional signage throughout the Christmas Market to guide visitors to the space.
Application
Thank you for your interest in the Museum’s Christmas Market. The registration period is now over for the 2026 edition.
If you would like to apply for the 2027 Christmas Market, you may apply beginning in April 2027.
To come: List of vendors for the 2026 edition.