Enjoying Christmas craft markets

Fort Rouge

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/12/2024 (337 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Are you the type of person who could listen to Christmas music year-round? Do you set up your Christmas tree Nov. 1 and leave it up well into January? Do you love making Christmas crafts? If you answered yes to any of these, then this column dedicated to Christmas craft shows is definitely for you.

Markets, especially Christmas markets, are popular events in small towns and in the big city.

If you’re simply looking to browse Christmas craft shows here are a few that are coming your way in December (although there were many in November, including the big ones at Red River Exhibition place and RBC Convention Centre, but don’t fret:

• The South Osborne Holiday Market will take place on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Lord Roberts Community Centre, 725 Kylemore Ave. You can browse a selection of delectable local food products (including meats, vegetables, breads, and specialty items) and handmade goods from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• The Pitâw Mīno Muskîki Indigenous Handmade Winter Market will take place Dec. 13 to 15 at the Via Rail Union Station, 123 Main St. With over 90 Indigenous makers showcasing their talent, this market will feature handmade creations from unique holiday gifts and festive baking to cultural crafts and artistic wonders. There will also be Indigenous music for all to enjoy.

• The Luckygirl Holiday Pop Up Eve runs at Centennial Concert Hall, 555 Main St., on Sunday, Dec. 15. Admission for adults is $8, kids 12 and under are free and you will be able to browse 150 unique vendors of a variety of holiday gifts. This is a very large market and I’m sure you’ll find something for everyone on your list.

If you’re a crafty person and you would like to take your passion to the next level and become a producer and vendor of Christmas crafts, your first question for yourself should be – what will you be selling? All kinds of interesting and charming crafts are available at these shows, but what will you be able to make? If you’re just starting out, my suggestion is to keep things simple – make your own ornaments, or maybe some holiday baking, which is always popular.

There are many great places to sell your items if you wish to participate and prices for renting a table vary, from $10 to $20 and more, depending on the location of the market.

Markets are fun to participate in. Whether buying or selling, you will interesting people, get new ideas and you can purchase unique craft items either for yourself or as a gift for someone else.

Apart from the markets listed here, you will find a more complete list of craft sales and markets online at travelmanitoba.com

Happy holidays, everyone!