Believe it or not, there are some people who do not – gasp – like Christmas shopping. It’s as if a little bit of Ebenezer Scrooge has taken over and all they can say is “Bah humbug! Christmas is too commercialized! I can’t stand the crowds! I can’t find what I’m looking for!” followed by another “Bah humbug,” just in case you didn’t hear it the first time.
Well, put on your boots and coat, pull out your shopping bags, and say good-bye to Mr. Scrooge because these fine Holiday Art and Craft sales are just the place for you to catch the Christmas spirit, enjoy bumping into old friends, and find the perfect gifts for those special people on your list.
There are other great benefits to doing your Christmas shopping un-big-box-store, unAmazon, and unBlack Friday madness. These craft events are often hosted in one location so you don’t have to feel that wintery blast of cold air every time you move from shop to shop, and, most importantly, each purchase is unique, hand crafted with care, and you get one-on-one help from the person who put hours of work into making that special gift for you to give to that special someone. You’re also supporting artisans and crafters who are a vital part of our community, which is always good for our local economy.
Lisa Dampier of Lotsa Dots by Lisa believes the markets are wonderful for so many reasons. “Connecting with other local artists and artisans who are passionate about their talents inspires me to be creative. The way local shoppers encourage and support us is truly humbling,” Lisa says, and then adds, “I’m so grateful that we have a community that appreciates and provides opportunities for small little businesses like mine.”
Janice Sinclair of the Secret Society of Sock Monkeys loves selling her one-of-a-kind gifts at craft fairs. “The reason might be completely selfish but it’s the faces of the children and adults that are transformed from busy, task-oriented shopping, into completely smiling, joyful faces. I love speaking to young and old as they wander and wonder. And I especially love it when they tell me stories of their own experiences with cherished items.”
Many craft events also offer baking and hot and cold beverages so you can treat yourself while attending. It’s a perfect way to sip and nibble as you browse and shop.
For your winter market shopping convenience, we’ve compiled a list of arts and craft sales you can check out. See you there!
November 16
The Royal Canadian Legion Christmas Craft Show
Branch 5, 229 Van Norman St.
10 am – 4 pm
November 16
Craft Sale and Tea
Hilldale Lutheran Church
10 am – 2 pm
November 16 & 17
Celebrating Artists Past and Present Show and Sale
Valhalla Inn Ballroom
Sat. 10 am – 5 pm &
Sun 10 am – 4 pm
November 16 & 17
Creekside’s Holiday Local Artisan Market
Creekside Nursery & Garden Centre
10 am – 4 pm
November 17
Hymers Fair Holiday Market
Delta Hotels by Marriott
10 am – 3 pm
November 23
Urban Abbey Christmas Market
Urban Abbey, 308 Red River Rd.
10 am – 3 pm
November 23
2nd Annual Home for the Holidays Vendor Market
Lakehead University, Faculty Lounge
10 am – 4 pm
November 24
Christmas Craft and Vendor Event
Kaministiqua Community Centre
11 am – 3 pm
November 24
Market at the Moose
1835 Hwy 595, South Gillies
Community Centre
11 am – 2 pm
November 24
Christmas Craft Revival
Various locations at the
Waterfront District
10 am – 4 pm
November 30
Wrap-Up Holiday Market
425 Northern Ave.
8 am – 3 pm
November 30 & December 1
Salute to Christmas Craft Fair
Vanderwees Garden Gallery
9:30 am – 5 pm
December 2 & 3
December Dreams 2024
CLE Grounds,
Sat. 9 am – 5 pm, Sun. 11 am – 4 pm
December 6 & 7
West Thunder Christmas Craft Sale
915 S. Edward St.
Fri. 5 pm – 9 pm &
Sat. 10 am – 3 pm
December 7 & 8
December Dreams 2024
CLE Coliseum
Sat. 9 am – 5 pm &
Sun. 11 am. – 4 pm
December 14
Cookie and Craft Sale
Blake Community Hall, Neebing
1 pm – 3 pm
December 21
Twice as Nice Christmas Markets
CLE Heritage Building and Coliseum
8 am – 2 pm
Every Saturday until December 21
Thunder Bay Farmers Market
954 Huron Ave.
10 am – 2 pm
