Festivity

A European style Christmas market has been a tradition at Lansdowne Park for several years. In late November, the lighting of the big Christmas tree in front of the Pavilion, along with the opening of the market, drew a big crowd. I took this shot from the arena at one of the gate staircases.

Out on the east side of the building, an ice sculpture was found. These were small- the size one could do in an hour or so- and changed each weekend.

I attended the market several times, and there are still dates after Christmas, before they wrap up entirely on New Year's Eve. The tree is simply decorated, but lit well.

The vendors are a mix of food and gifts, housed in chalets, as is done in European Christmas markets. This event really draws in visitors.

One of the vendors specializes in novelty socks. I have several pairs.

I will likely go at least once more before it's all done. I have a particular appreciation for one vendor that sells both strudel and perogies. 

There is also a vendor here that sells Beavertails- the local pastry that is fried and covered in a variety of toppings. They're really, really good. No, you have to get your own. I'm not sharing.

Here is the east side of the Pavilion. More vendors are found here.

Back I went into the main section of the event.

The vendor at left is Thor's Trinkets. She makes beer mugs, glasses, and other items with a pop culture influence, and I've bought a number of items from her down through the years, either here or at Comiccon. The same applied this year.

Lastly, taken two days ago. I paid a visit to the Canadian Museum of History over in Gatineau. This is their Christmas tree.