When it comes to shopping, many people experience a thrill when they find that special deal, rare item or intriguing store. In York Region, there are many unique shops to peruse, including chocolate confectionaries Fraktal’s or Charlinda’s, doggie treat specialists Poochini’s Barkery and Whatnot’s Craft and Ceramic Studio in Newmarket.

Michelle Clayton-Wood of Whatnot’s describes the studio as fun for the whole family. You can “drop in and pick a mug, plate or whimsical figurine to paint,” and the staff will help you paint them, providing tips and techniques as you need them.

“Beginners are our specialty,” Clayton-Wood boasts, adding that Whatnot’s is open for birthdays, seniors groups, special needs groups and painting parties of all sorts.

During the summer months Whatnot’s is open for drop-ins Monday to Saturday. “And in the fall, winter and spring we’re open Tuesdays to Sundays,” Clayton-Wood says. Whatnot’s always has seasonal items on hand with many holiday items in the winter and fun summer painting projects to help beat the heat when school’s out.

York Region also has many malls including Vaughan Mills, Upper Canada Mall, Hillcrest and Markville. Plus, the Region has nine heritage towns, each with its own historic main street, quaint shops and charming eateries.

Many of York’s towns also host weekly farmers markets, offering the best of Ontario’s locally grown produce, dairy and delicious baked goods. Shopping at the farmer’s markets of York Region is a great way to meet and support local farmers, connect with the community and purchase the freshest food in the Region.

Between Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Whitchurch-Stouffville and Vaughan, there’s plenty to buy in York Region!

For more information on shopping in York Region visit YorkTourism.com.