Kensington Market: A Vibrant Toronto Experience
The antics in Bellevue Square Park tell you all you need to know about Kensington Market. While there’s a swing set for the children, it contrasts sharply with the bongo drumming circles, tightrope walking, fire hula-hooping, and occasional boomerang tossing that keep the older crowd entertained. Therefore, anything goes in this eccentric neighborhood, often considered quirky to say the least.
Nestled just north of downtown Toronto, Kensington Market emerged in the early 20th century as ‘The Jewish Market.’ This rich history continues through two heritage synagogues and the vibrant atmosphere shaped by generations. In the market’s early days, families would set up makeshift stands outside their homes, selling goods among themselves.
A Diverse Cultural Landscape
Moreover, the cultural landscape has expanded to incorporate immigrants from the Caribbean, the Middle East, South America, and Asia. Little has changed in terms of the overall vibe; it remains an ever-bustling blend of residential houses, eateries, and traditional shops, including butchers, greengrocers, fishmongers, and cheese merchants. Covered in enough graffiti to make the most bold tattooed artist proud, part of Kensington’s charm is its authenticity and rough-around-the-edges appeal.
According to Bruce Bell, a local tour guide: “Everyone who lives in Toronto, even if they’re 100 years old, knows Kensington Market. I’ve been going there since the ‘70s and physically, it’s pretty much the same.” This continuity is what makes Kensington market an enduring part of Toronto’s identity.
An Unforgettable Fashion Experience
The narrow streets burst with life, especially on weekends, attracting everyone from young hipsters donning snakeskin ankle boots to older hippies sporting Birkenstocks. It’s not unusual to encounter vivid sights such as a woman in a muumuu singing into a carrot, a Rastafarian grooving on the sidewalk, or a pigtailed grandmother riding a low-rider bike.
If you’re intrigued by their outrageous fashion choices, Kensington Avenue proves to be a treasure trove. This strip of vividly painted Victorian houses— in colors like canary yellow, turquoise, and vibrant scarlet—serves as a hub for vintage clothing. Racks of unique fashion from the last seven decades spill out from these houses into their front yards, creating an ongoing garage-sale vibe—albeit with higher price points. Notable shops include Exile (22 Kensington Ave) and Courage My Love (14 Kensington Ave).
After indulging in that hilarious Boy Scout shirt, you might feel hesitant about splurging on a full-fledged meal. Thankfully, Kensington offers a plethora of street eats, including Jamaican patties, empanadas, arepas, and satisfying burgers—all at reasonable prices. From Friday through Sunday, dedicated locals whip up flavorful Mexican dishes at a makeshift cantina located at the back of Perola Supermarket (247 Augusta Ave). These delicious bites are best enjoyed while browsing accessory stalls that entice passers-by to try on stylish fedoras or quirky sunglasses.
If you have concerns about joining the lively atmosphere in the park, another option is to relax in a nearby café. Watching the captivating scene unfold while seated beside a local character is one of the best ways to grasp the unique spirit of Kensington Market. One will find that chain coffee shops have yet to establish their presence in this counter-culture fortress.
Only by exploring Kensington Market can you truly appreciate its eclectic vigor, unique history, and appetizing offerings. It represents the spirit of Toronto—diverse, vibrant, and endlessly fascinating.
