1832 - The Early Years

The Gooderham & Worts Distillery was founded in 1832 by brothers-in-law William Gooderham and James Worts. By the 1860s, it had grown into the largest distillery in the world, producing over two million gallons of whisky per year and helping to shape Toronto’s industrial heritage. The company played a major role in the city’s growth, employing thousands and exporting spirits around the globe.

Fast Facts

Economic Impact

• $250 million contributed to Toronto’s economy by visitors from outside the city (Ontario Ministry of Tourism TREIM model, 2023)
• Total contribution to tax revenue for Ontario: $50+ million (2023)

Business & Retail Impact

• The Distillery Winter Village is critical to the success of the 85+ year-round businesses in The Distillery District
• The event contributes 40–50% of their annual revenue

Visitor Growth & Reach

• Expected to welcome over one million visitors this year
• Generates over 2 billion media impressions worldwide annually
• Consistently ranked among the top Christmas/holiday festivals in the world:
  • CNN Travel (2022 - 2024) – “The Best Christmas Markets Around the World”
  • Stern Magazine  (2024) – “12 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets Outside Germany”

Community & Employment

• Employs 600+ seasonal workers, many youth and from underrepresented groups
• Provides daily meals to staff
• Raises $45,000 annually for local charity partners
• Revenue helps fund cultural programming and local artists in the Distillery District year-round

Cultural Footprint

• Began in 2010 as Toronto’s first European-style Christmas Market
• Now in its 16th year (and sixth as The Distillery Winter Village)
• Has become a global holiday destination attracting visitors from dozens of countries around the world. 
  

Ugly Sweater Patio Bar

located on the Cluny Bistro patio this outdoor bar invites you to show us your best (worst) Ugly Christmas Sweater. Look for the 8’ ball of yarn that will draw in onlookers to a festive celebration of the holidays.

Late 20th Century

After ceasing operations in the 1990s, the 13-acre site fell into disuse. In 1988, the area was officially designated a National Historic Site of Canada, recognized for its collection of more than 40 preserved Victorian-era industrial buildings - the largest surviving example of its kind in North America.

Before its redevelopment, The Distillery’s weathered architecture and cobblestone streets made it a popular filming location. Over the years, it has served as the backdrop for more than 1,700 films and television productions, from Hollywood blockbusters to Canadian classics - earning it the nickname “Hollywood North’s backlot.”

2001 – A New Vision

When the Cityscape Group purchased the site in 2001, it launched the largest heritage restoration project in Canada at the time. In just 18 months, the long-underused national historic site was transformed into a cultural destination.

“In 2001 when we won the bid to purchase the venue, we made a promise to the City of Toronto that it would be a community hub for arts, culture and entertainment. That it would be a place that fosters small, local businesses and acts as an incubator for artists and entrepreneurs. That we would be committed to building community over profit. And now, 20 years later, we are so very proud to say that promise has been kept!”

2003 – The Distillery Historic District Opens

The Distillery Historic District officially opened to the public on May 22, 2003. Today, it is one of Toronto’s most distinctive neighbourhoods, blending the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America with striking 21st-century design. The area is home to condominiums, cobblestone streets, shops, galleries, theatres, artisanal cafés and chocolatiers, and award-winning restaurants.

A Place for Community and Culture

The Distillery District has helped redefine Toronto’s downtown east side, becoming a hub for cultural life and economic activity. It welcomes more than two million visitors each year, hosting international festivals, free community programming year-round, and private events.

2010 – Toronto’s First Christmas Market

The first European-style Christmas Market launched in 2010 as a 10-day festival, instantly becoming a Toronto holiday favourite.

2020 – The Distillery Winter Village

In 2020, the event evolved into The Distillery Winter Village, expanding beyond a market into a full winter wonderland experience. While Christmas remains at its heart - with a towering Christmas tree, Santa, Elves, carollers, and traditional holiday treats - The Distillery Winter Village now runs from November 13, 2025 - January 4, 2026, offering shopping, entertainment, seasonal attractions, and dozens of food vendors.Fund local charities…

Today – A Global Holiday Destination

Now in its 16th year (and sixth as The Distillery Winter Village), the event welcomes over one million visitors annually. It has been recognized globally as one of the best holiday markets in the world, and continues to be a vital driver of tourism, culture, and community in Toronto.

Pepperment Patio

Located on the Madrina patio, this outdoor area starting at the massive 10’ Candy Cane Wreath will follow the path to the Peppermint patio, adorned with red and white striped columns, arches and festive decor. This patio will showcase holiday styled beverages that are sure to add to your yuletide fun.