On Friday, November 7 and Saturday, November 8, the St. Lawrence Market will be throwing a monumental affair celebrating its 205th anniversary with activities and entertainment for the whole family.
The St. Lawrence Market is one of two major markets in the city, formerly being Toronto’s first official city hall until 1899 and now home to the Farmer’s Market, a staple of city culture and living.
Along with Toronto’s 175th birthday, the site will be feting its original construction in 1803, when it began as rather primitive and made of wood, later being replaced with bricks. The newer building burned down amid a massive fire in 1849 that consumed many city blocks, but was rebuilt soon after, along with St. Lawrence Hall. Following the reconstruction, they were named the St. Lawrence Buildings in honour of both the ward where it was located and Canada’a patron saint. This construction was completed in 1850, and St. Lawrence Hall has since been restored during 1967 during Canada’s centennial celebration.
The festivities begin on Friday evening where visitors can witness the launch of a new lighting initiative in the market to show off the city’s pride in its older and more historic buildings.
The bash continues all day Saturday, where bands, buskers and even Toronto’s own Batman will show up to entertain adults and children alike while they take in theatre performances, history exhibits and cooking demonstrations.
For a fee of either $1.75 or $11.75, merchants and artisans will also be on hand provide a sampling of their fares in recognition of the city of Toronto’s own anniversary.
At 7 p.m. on both nights guests are invited to the 1812 Great Canadian Victory Party and Banquet, calling attention to Canada’s role in the war of 1812 celebrating actions of the past that have shaped the present featuring many Canadian historical icons, including Laura Secord and Tecumseh. Dramatic performances and authentic time period foods crafted by students enrolled in the Canadian Food History course at George Brown Chef School.
For the last 75 years, farmers of all kinds have been selling their meats, produce and cheeses each Saturday at the North Market, while the South Market has held the Market Gallery since 1979, displaying the original Council Chamber as well as documents and artifacts illustrating the social and economic development of the city of Toronto. When not showcasing select events, the 10,000 square-foot space is available for rent for exhibitions, flea markets or other functions, as well as housing several boutiques year-round.
