‘Tis the season for markets and fairs

No matter where you go, November and early December mark the time of year when the Christmas craft markets start popping up. And while fairs and markets aren’t exactly exclusive to the Valley, our active, artsy community ensures they’re a step above in terms of quantity and quality.

It’s not hard to find plenty of options for the coming weekends, but here are a few unique ones to choose from.

Fiesta World Craft Bazaar

Make sure to check out this Valley favourite! Held annually at Courtenay’s Filberg Centre, this year’s market takes place November 17th & 18th. For just a $2 admission, you can support more than 50 local and global organizations and businesses that are selling fair-trade products. These vendors work directly with the artisans in Africa, Asia and Central and South America. There truly is something for everyone – from Christmas ornaments to Tibetan carpets, books and posters, games and toys, clothing and jewellery. Not to mention the chance to enjoy some delicious ethnic food cooked by local immigrants. It’s a lot of fun!

Stagnhare

And while you’re in town on November 18^th, head over to the Native Sons Hall and take in this favourite. It runs from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and is $5 at the door, but kids 12 and under are free. Word has it that Santa will be making an appearance – I guess he likes to shop local, too!

Gnarly Little Christmas Craft Fair

Speaking of fun, this market gets more popular every year. Lewis Centre will be the place to be on December 1 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Featuring youth crafters aged 9-19, over 30 vendors will be showcasing wares that include baking, crafts, woodwork, jewellery, stocking stuffers and more. You can even time your market visit with Courtenay Rec’s Children’s Christmas Party (ages 9 years & under) that starts at 2:00 pm and features Captain Thunderpants and, of course, Santa! 

Elevate Winter Bazaar

The seventh annual fair is being held at the Courtenay Legion Hall on December 7th & 8th. Looking for something different, such as quirky broaches and buttons, Indigenous designed and screen-printed clothing, succulents art, wood carvings and Day of the Dead glass-beaded bracelets? This is the place. Forty carefully selected local makers, artists and artisans will be there from 4:30 to 9:00 pm on Friday and 10:00 am - 4:30 pm on Saturday.

Merville Hall Christmas Craft Fair

This year the annual Merville Craft Fair will be held on December 1 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Big Yellow Hall. Chocked full of delightful crafts for everyone’s shopping pleasure, just head up the old Island Highway and take in a nice selection of Christmas chattels.

Denman Island Christmas Craft Fair

This classic market happens December 1 and 2 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Hop on the ferry and make a day of it. Two halls, more than 80 vendors and a shuttle service make this one a worthwhile endeavor.

  

And, as always, the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market happens on Saturday mornings right up to Christmas.

Wherever you go, you’ll be sure to get in the spirit, so get out there and have fun!

For more information about all aspects of living in the Comox Valley, visit my website or my Facebook page. And for specific real estate questions, please feel free to get in touch!