Photo credit: Pip & Pin cowls, available at Make It!

‘Tis the season for crafts.

Over the next two months, Vancouver will be blessed with nearly a half-dozen holiday craft markets, from heavy hitter Circle Craft to more intimate indie affairs. In fact, with so many talented artisans from across the country and around the world converging on the city, you might be able to avoid holiday mall madness altogether this year.   Wares on offer range from one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing and home accessories to bath and body products, artwork, ceramics and even holiday foods.

Here’s a quick preview of what’s in store:

Circle Craft Christmas Market, Nov. 7-11: The grandaddy of Vancouver holiday markets is back for its 39th year.  More than 300 artisans will pack the Vancouver Convention Centre with jewelry, fashions, home decor, bath products and even seasonal foods.  This year, Circle Craft will also host their inaugural fashion show featuring eco-friendly garments from 50 designers.  Check out Taraneh’s blog post for more details. 

Make It!, Nov. 8-11: The runaway favourite among hipster shoppers, Make It! combines arts and crafts with a uniquely club vibe.  To get everyone into the holiday spirit, local musicians – including Alas, the Ocean and Elisa Thorn – serenade shoppers with live tunes, and alcohol is available for purchase.  The market is held in the Croatian Cultural Centre on Commercial Drive and is apparently “25 percent more awesome” this year owing to an expanded roster of vendors.   Continue reading:
Vancouver Holiday Craft Market Preview