Spruce Meadows sees record-breaking attendance at annual Christmas market
Spruce Meadows saw a record number of people attend its annual International Christmas Market this year.
On Tuesday, officials announced that nearly 100,000 people went to the event over the three weekends it was held – more than ever before.
"We were blown away by the incredible turnout at the Christmas markets," said spokesperson Krista Poffenroth in a news release.
"Having this many people make the effort to attend the market when it has been so cold is a real testament to the quality of our offerings."
The timing of the market could also have helped encourage shoppers to attend, as it started the first day Canada Post workers were on strike.
Calgary business owner Jess Capeling, who runs Jess Paper Co., said at the time that her company relies heavily on Canada Post to deliver her products, and encouraged shoppers to support local businesses by visiting the market.
Spruce Meadows says more than 330 vendors had items for sale.
Calgary company Thistle and Clover used social media to express appreciation for the people in attendance.
"A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support local businesses at this year’s Spruce Meadows Invitational Christmas Market," said a Monday Instagram post.
"Your presence and kind words have truly filled our hearts with joy and gratitude."
Officials at Spruce Meadows are now turning their attention to the venue's 50th anniversary year in 2025.
If you missed the market, you can still view the Christmas light display at Spruce Meadows on weekends from Dec. 6 to 29, in addition to Monday, Dec. 23 and Tuesday, Dec. 24.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Mark Carney tells Jon Stewart the Liberal party has 'a chance' after Trudeau's resignation
Days ahead of his expected Liberal leadership campaign launch, former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to step down boosts the party's chance in the next general election.
Harm reduction advocates hope high court will 'clarify' Canada's 'Good Samaritan' law
Canada's Good Samaritan law, which is meant to shield people from arrest after they seek help for someone in medical distress, is under spotlight in the Supreme Court of Canada.
'We can live our lives again without worrying': Ontario man relieved after insurance company agrees to pay $620,000 hospital bill
An Ontario man who received a $620,000 medical bill from a Florida hospital is now relieved that his insurance company has reversed its decision and decided to pay the bill.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford to speak in Toronto
Premier Doug Ford is set to speak in Toronto on Tuesday morning, after addressing early Ontario election rumours a day earlier.
Queen Elizabeth II wasn't told about Soviet spy in her palace, declassified MI5 files show
Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t told details of her long-time art adviser's double life as a Soviet spy because palace officials didn’t want to add to her worries, newly declassified documents reveal.
Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages, officials say
Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages, two officials involved in the talks said Tuesday. Mediator Qatar said the negotiations were at the “closest point” yet to sealing a deal.
Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, visits hospital where she had cancer treatment
Kate, Princess of Wales, visited a London hospital on Tuesday where she underwent cancer treatment last year to personally thank medics there for their care and support, her office said.
Strong winds forecast for Los Angeles threaten area's fight against fires
Additional water tankers and scores of firefighters have arrived at the Los Angeles area ahead of fierce winds that were forecast to return and threaten the progress made so far on two massive infernos that have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people.
Icelandic discount carrier Play Airlines pulls out of Canada, leaving customers in dark
Play Airlines is pulling out of Canada less than two years after entering the market.