Forget Christmas movie marathons on your home theater this coming holiday season. Put down the universal remote control and head out over to downtown Toronto on November 28 for one of the most anticipated Christmas events in the city.
The One of a Kind Christmas Show, which will be held in the Direct Energy Centre this year, has been celebrated annually for 38 years. This Toronto holiday tradition was started by Steven Levy, Martin Rumack and June Bibby, who were looking for a venue to showcase their crafts. Since they couldn’t find one themselves, they decided to make one. The first One of a Kind Show was launched on December 1975 with 80 participants. Since then, it has been visited by over 5 million shoppers.
In 1979, the event expanded to include the One of a Kind Spring Show, another spectacular shopping event held during spring time.
This year, the One of a Kind Christmas Show will feature hand-crafted ceramics, jewelry, clothing and furniture by over 800 artisans for your browsing and shopping pleasure. On top of that, you will be treated to fashion shows, seminars held by celebrity experts, and a whole lot of other fun and artistic holiday activities.
The shopping event also features workshops, where you can learn DIY tips in making your own holiday presents and giveaways. For a fee, admission to each workshop includes a light breakfast, art supplies and your finished project.
The One of a Kind Christmas Show starts on November 28 to December 8. Shopping hours will be from 10 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and 10 AM to 6 PM on Sundays. Late night shopping is available on Thursday, December 5 from 10 AM to 11 PM.
You also don’t have to worry about bringing your young ones with you. The Family Centre provides a complimentary safe haven for your tots and kids ages 2-8 years old for one and a half hour. The centre is staffed by the good people of Network Childcare. For kids ages 9 and above, they can enjoy art-related activities in the One of a Kind Art School.
So join in the holiday fun and shop till you drop in this year’s One of a Kind Christmas Show.