If you’re looking for things to do in Toronto, you need to start going to pop-up markets. The customer shopping experience is getting redefined, with the rising popularity of pop-up markets rivalling the average corporate retail spots.
What is a pop-up market?
Pop-up markets, aka “pop-ups”, are exactly what they sound like: temporary retail events that “pop up” in various locations for a limited time. Pop-up markets have been around for ages and you’ve probably been to one without even realizing it: farmers markets, food festivals, trade shows, and booths at annual fairs like the CNE.
But what’s the difference between these classic pop-up markets and the new era of pop-up markets now?
They’re now modernized to adapt to the new wants and needs of shoppers in 2023. People are getting bored of buying the same products with inflated prices, so it’s no wonder that pop-up markets are fulfilling the need for new, unique, and exclusive products
Why attend a pop-up market?
Authentic Shopping Experience: Believe it or not, pop-up markets are not just about buying things and supporting capitalism but having an experience. You get to know the people you’re shopping from, learn their stories, and have your own personal shopping experience with each small business you encounter. Many pop-up markets also enhance the overall shopping atmosphere by providing thoughtfully planned themes, decorations, workshops, live music, and more!
Unique Brands and Products: Pop-up markets bring you unique, locally made, and often limited-edition items that you won't see corporate retail stores, reviving our hope in finding high-quality products. You’ll often find products made from small batches by small business owners, meaning your products are made with care, quality, and value in mind.
Purposely Support Your Community: Yes, liking and sharing photos on Instagram is a way of showing your support, but showing up to pop-up markets will undeniably support the growth your local community.
Pop-up markets present small business owners with the opportunity and confidence to show up for their own brand, and you can help by showing up for them too. You’ll also meet other like-minded individuals as part of the community of enthusiasts that share an interest in the market’s theme (PSST this is how you make friends as an adult in the city).
Exclusivity: Move aside Aritzia Clientele sales, pop-up markets are truly exclusive and don’t just exist for the clout. The limited-time nature of pop-up markets is not without exclusive offerings from small businesses that aren’t available online, such as free loot bags, giveaways, pop-up discounts, one-of-a-kind products, and skipping pre-order wait times for handmade products.
Costco’s Not the Only Place With Samples: Pop-up markets provide hands-on experience to allow you to test or sample products from small businesses before purchasing. This allows you to be confident about your purchase, instead of relying on guesswork and subjective online reviews.
So when and where can I find pop-up markets?
The beauty of pop-up markets is that they just “pop-up” throughout the entire year! Pop-up markets can happen at any time either on a set or random schedule, but most pop-up markets are hosted on weekends between 10AM to 7PM for 2-3 days at a time every 1-4 weeks.
You can usually find pop-up markets being hosted throughout Ontario in public, high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, community centers, storefronts, public parks, and more! Pop-up markets are often advertised on Facebook, Instagram, and other social media. To find upcoming pop-up markets in Toronto, head over to our Popmarket Events Calendar to keep updated.
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