Portobello Market in Canada: Toronto

I did a double take when I saw on The F-List’s Twitter feed when I saw the words “Portobello market” several weeks ago. Clicking on the link provided, I wound up at a website in the making. Quickly, I dismissed the whole thing and went back to browsing RedFlagDeals and my Google Reader.

Just yesterday, the words “Portobello East” caught my eye in the F-List newsletter. I gave the little link a click and wound up on the website for a Toronto fashion and art market preparing for its first market this Saturday. You’re probably wondering what peaked my interest; well, when I was in London during my winter break, I had a delightful time at the famous Portobello market one Saturday afternoon. Okay, I have to admit: I love looking at antiques, indie jewelers, and unique things.

London's open-air Portobello Market, January 2009

Anyway, Portobello East is, in effect, a Canadian rendition on the idea with accessories, art, clothing, bags, and jewelry. Sounds exciting, but doesn’t seem to have the same ‘market feel’ like the British original. One thing about the market that I loved was that it was an open-air market that took over the streets. Here in Toronto, it will be held at The Fermenting Cellar, a great venue, but just not the same feel. Be reminded that if you do plan on checking Portobello East out this weekend that there will be a $5 CDN admission fee to the public (children 12 and under get in free), which is decent price for these type of things. With all that said, I’m sure it will still be tonnes of fun and will check it out when I’m back in Toronto in mid-August.

As a side note, Portobello East does in fact have counterparts in both Calgary and Vancouver. Wait, when was Toronto ever behind the west?

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