Entertainment in Markham
Although it is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Canada, the town of Markham is but a blip compared to mighty Toronto, located just next door. Many people see it as nothing but a suburb, a place to sleep at night, where there’s nothing to do or see. Nothing could be farther than the truth. There are plenty of entertainment options right here in Markham. There’s no need to go far from home to do or see something fun. If you’re considering Markham as a likely location for your new home and you are wondering what there is to do, we can tell you how to fill your evenings and weekends.
Most suburbs have almost no history - they just sprung up as a place for people to build their houses - but Markham became a suburb by accident when Toronto swelled to epic proportions. It actually has a charming history as a farming town that you can explore through several area museums and attractions. You can start at the Markham Museum, which is part historical district and part museum and features over thirty historic structures from the town’s Mennonite past. The historic Heintzman House is also open to visitors, as are several modern and historic farms that kids love, where you can go on pony rides and pat the animals.
If you’re more of an arts affictionato than a sports buff, we recommend a visit to the Frederick Horsman Varley Art Gallery, which is named after and features work from the famed Canadian painters known as the Group of Seven. There are also local performing arts groups that offer music and theater lovers the chance to see a live show without traveling into downtown Toronto. Shows might be put on by the Unionville Theater Company, the Kindred Sprits Orchestra, or even the Markham Concert Band. Most events are held at the Markham Theater for the Performing Arts.
Once you’ve settled down in Markham, you’ll find pretty full schedule of annual events and festivals to entertain you regardless of what your interests are. Some of the festivals that occur every year in Markham include two music festivals: the Village Music Festival and the Jazz Festival, as well as several that appeal to children, such as the Milikin Mills Children’s Festival, Markham Youth Week, and of course the Santa Claus Parade. Those people who like to try specialty foods eagerly await the Taste of Asia Festival and the annual Ribfest, while pretty much everyone in town gets involved in the annual Fair somehow.
As for the more everyday entertainments, Markham can meet your needs when it comes to two activities that are very popular in Canada: shopping and sports. There are clubs and teams for a wide variety of sports, from the ever-popular hockey to the more obscure cricket, that present an opportunity for anyone who likes to play or watch. You can get a historic shopping experience after the game on the main streets of Markham or Thornhill, attend the weekly farmers market for some fresh produce, or check out some of the large malls in the area, one of which contains a fascinating array of Chinese shops.
