As I watch ByWard Market businesses shutter and the Market’s vibrancy fade in winter, I can’t help but wonder what could have been. And still might be.

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In 2014, I moved back to Canada from the medieval city of York, settling in Ottawa. With the birth of my first daughter, I took paternity leave to savour those precious early years, a rare gift. It also gave me time to explore my new city.

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Having spent years in Europe, I had been captivated by the stunning Christmas markets. These gatherings, rich with history and atmosphere, transformed city squares into places of warmth and connection, alive with the scents of mulled wine, along with artisan crafts. As winter approached in Ottawa, I hoped to find that same festive energy. But aside from the twinkling lights in