Where to Shop in Vancouver: 2013 Holiday Craft Fairs

Does the mere thought of the holiday mall scene make your blood run cold? Would you prefer to give one-of-a-kind, thoughtfully chosen gifts this year? Do you love the idea of a handmade holiday, but lack the necessary crafting skills? Do you like to get out and connect with the people in your community? If you answered yes to any or all of those questions, then holiday craft fairs are where to shop in Vancouver this season for you.

One-of-a-Kind Gifts

If the phrase craft fair makes you think of grannies crocheting doilies, think again. Vancouver has a robust and thriving maker community. Local craft fairs boast one-of-a-kind jewellery, hand-dyed silk scarves, amazing pottery, slouchy toques, posh baby gear, high-fashion clothing, amazing food and a whole lot more. From stocking stuffers like candy, soap, candles and jewellery all the way up to handcrafted furniture, you’ll find really high-quality items. Many of them are eco-friendly choices as well. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet the person who actually made it. What’s not to love about that?

Where to Shop in Vancouver: 2013 Holiday Craft Fairs

There are lots of holiday craft fairs to choose from when you’re deciding where to shop in Vancouver. Here are just a few of our favourites:

Christmas Boutique

Where: Where: Place des Arts, 1120 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam
When: Daily until December 20, 2013
Link: placedesarts.ca/gallery/christmas-boutique.aspx

Christmas at Hycroft

Where: 1489 McRae Avenue
When: November 21-24, 2013
Link: christmasathycroft.com

Vancouver Christmas Market

Where: 650 Hamilton Street
When: November 22-December 24, 2013
Link: www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com

Vancouver Waldorf School Christmas Fair

Where: Vancouver Waldorf School, 2725 St. Christophers Road, North Vancouver
When: November 23, 2013
Link: www.vws.ca/christmasfair

Make It!

Where: The PNE Forum, 2901 E Hastings Street
When: November 28-December 1, 2013
Link: makeitproductions.com/vancouver/welcome-to-make-it

Great Canadian Craft: Christmas Edition

Where: Cloverdale Agriplex, 17798 62 Avenue, Surrey
When: November 29-December 1, 2013
Link: www.greatcanadiancraft.com

Dunbar Holiday Craft Fair

Where: Dunbar Community Centre, 4747 Dunbar Street
When: November 30, 2013
Link: dunbarcentre.org/dunbar/programs/specialevents/holiday-craft-fair

Strathcona Winter Craft Fair

Where: Strathcona Community Centre, 601 Keefer Street
When: November 30, 2013
Link: facebook.com/pages/Strathcona-Winter-Craft-Fair/201234196674834