Queen West's favourite community market is leaning into the season. The Welcome Market, which operates out of a two-storey space at Queen and Shaw, is throwing its annual Halloween-themed "Shop Spooky" event on Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry is free, and the timing is double sweet: the market marks its sixth anniversary that same weekend.
Expect the usual bustling line-up of local vendors with a ghoulish twist. Think spooky candles, DIY costume pieces sourced from independent vintage sellers, handmade art and jewellery, and snacks from local food entrepreneurs. Confirmed vendors include Cherry Bomb Vintage, Kaju Matcha, Artket Goods and Big Bag Of Vintage, plus around 15 more, with more than 35 sellers on site at any given time. It's a good spot to pick up a one-of-a-kind costume without resorting to a big-box party store.
The market was founded by Cindy Chau with a deliberate mission: centre representation and community. Its rotating calendar includes Asian-owned vendor markets and artist pop-ups, and the Queen and Shaw space has built a reputation for high energy and a distinctly Toronto feel. Even if Halloween isn't your thing, it's an easy, free way to spend a couple of hours in one of the city's best neighbourhoods for indie shopping.
For visitors, the location is a bonus. 938 Queen St W sits right on the 501 Queen streetcar line, surrounded by cafes, murals and vintage shops, so you can fold the market into a longer day exploring Queen West. Arrive early on Saturday if you want first pick of the candles and vintage rails — popular vendors tend to sell down their stock by Sunday afternoon.
If you're in Toronto that weekend, this is a low-cost, high-character way to get into the Halloween spirit, support small businesses, and maybe walk away with a matcha and a costume piece you didn't plan on buying. Just bring a tote bag; you'll likely need it.
Story via Curiocity.
