Old Montreal's Christmas Market Alley Is Now Open & It's The Most Magical Spot In The City

A little alleyway in Old Montreal might just be the most festive spot in the city. The Maison Pepin Christmas market, a perennial destination for holiday shopping and photos, is back for the 2020 season.

Owner Lysanne Pepin confirmed to MTL Blog that it's all set up and ready to welcome guests.

Pepin, who has been showcasing local artists and artisans for over 20 years, said that the idea for the alleyway setup came from visits to European markets with her husband, who is from Switzerland.

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Those who set foot in this secret winter garden will escape and fall under the spell of the romantic atmosphere of the place.

Chantal Royer

This year, shoppers can expect to find Maison Pepin's house blend teas and cup gift sets, scented holiday candles, ornaments, wreaths, health and beauty gift baskets from local artisans, and even a hot chocolate stand alongside the store's famous olive trees, symbols of peace and abundance, two things Pepin said "we especially need in this moment."

The enchantment of the alleyway market is the work of Montreal designer and artist Chantal Royer.

"I try to express myself through botany, in order to reconnect man with nature," Royer told MTL Blog.

"My inspiration always starts from the fluid movement of organic matter."

This year at Maison Pepin, Royer and her team aimed to create an especially "magic and elegant" experience.

"We wanted to highlight the architectural beauty of the courtyard by accentuating its arches. For us, this courtyard is a tribute to our heritage and the history of Old Montreal," she said.

"As we are all living in difficult times with the pandemic, being able to create such a magical place is essential to us."

Maison Pepin is located at 378 rue St-Paul O.