Seasons Christmas Show 2014

Seasons Christmas Show, the amazing Toronto holiday show, is in its 10^th year and is to adults what Toys “R” Us is to children.

The show is filled with the sights, sounds and smells of the season from the moment you walk through the doors.  As you enter the show at Hall 5 at the International Centre in Mississauga, two distinct areas stand out immediately. The first is the 25’ Toy Mountain Charity, where guests were urged to drop off an unwrapped toy. The gorgeous Christmas tree was set up amidst an outdoors scene with snow falling and all; it was a magical sight to see.

The second to the left of the entrance as you entered the magical wonderland was the “Acts of Sweetness” team and their restored 1947 Divco sugar delivery truck. The young ladies were handing out Redpath sugar signature sugar cookies to sweeten our day! The truck is one way Redpath Sugar says, “Thank you” to our communities.  The Divco truck is available to take part in many events and festivals throughout southern Ontario. Check out how you can request them to be part of your event, along with many delicious recipes at Redpath Sugar.

Next to the Redpath Sugar truck were young volunteers from St. Jude’s Academy ready to hold your shopping bags while you continued to browse. There was also a second table where you could donate or purchase items that would benefit the Breakfast with Santa Foundation, which provides breakfast for 200-225 children throughout the summer months when school programs are not in place, as well as a wonderful Christmas breakfast each year.

Now onward and upward through the several rows of a few hundred exhibitors featuring everything for holiday decorating, entertaining and gifting, I was enjoying this truly unique Christmas shopping experience. First on my stop was “Krem by Liz” custom created organic skin care. Void of chemicals, preservatives or alcohol, with hydrating and anti-aging formulations, the products contain only the purity of the finest natural ingredients. I picked up Krem by Liz’s hand cream and lip balm and am loving them both every day since.

Another stand out for me was Simply Sweet – baking for friends by Alex Romano. Being an afternoon tea lover this booth was calling my name with a sign reading making Sweet Memories for your Special Occasion J  Everything looked amazing and scrumptious!  Be sure to visit her online.

Speaking of afternoon tea, I had to chat with Logan and Edward from Postal Teas. The company offers an interesting concept: a monthly tea subscription that brings exciting new teas to your door. Their goal was to help us realize the importance of “me time” and to sit, relax and enjoy a cup of comfort while testing a variety of flavours without having to purchase large packages of each. This is a perfect gift to yourself, friends or family.

New this year is Curiosity Box, which has already been recognized by famous designers Steven & Chris. Inspire your child’s curiosity and creativity by ordering fun and conveniently packaged themed craft and activity boxes to arrive right at their door! A great way to grow your child’s imagination and get them away from the television and computer for a few hours of hands on fun!

In between the shopping, there were plenty of scheduled events to attend from How-to Workshops by Kate’s Garden Workshop, to Cheese Seminars by the Dairy Farmers of Canada to Purdy’s Chocolatier taking center stage! Whew so much to do and see and learn, before I knew it, five hours had passed. Thank goodness they had gift wrapping services and Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch also made appearances throughout the day for both the young and young-at-heart.

Although I also enjoy the One-Of-A-Kind Craft show, Seasons Christmas Show is just as good, but on a bit smaller scale, making it a little less overwhelming. Truth be told, I love this show and look forward to next year!

Seasons Christmas Show takes place November 21-23, 2014 at the International Centre, 6900 Airport Road in Mississauga.