This weekend marks one month until Christmas and the official kickoff of the holiday shopping season. We want the hundreds of dollars we spend each year to count for more, so we’re shopping local and avoiding the risk of Canada Post delays by visiting local craft shows, and Burlington MADE this Saturday is one of our favourites.
Though only in its second year, the Burlington MADE Holiday Craft Market attracts some of the best makers in the area, pulling in some 200 applications from Toronto to Niagara to fill its 56 spots. That means no hunting is required—there’s a great variety of items and everything is modern, tasteful, and well-made. They’ve also taken the stress out of holiday shopping by curating 14 handmade gift guides for everyone on your list, from The New Mama to The Urban Gentleman.
While you’re shopping, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, featuring live music from Cambridge artist Eric Bolton and local talent Sarah Campbell Mills. Kids can enjoy making a holiday card and contributing to a community mural in the cafe with charity partner Girls Inc. of Halton. And when you need a pick-me-up, they’ll have everything from fresh-roasted coffee and gooey butter tarts to a gourmet taco truck to keep you fuelled.
Founder Stephanie Finn of Stephanie Street Events hails from New York City via Toronto, and was a crafter herself. She says, “I’ve been a part of some incredible events, both as a vendor and an organizer and marketing professional. And when we moved here three years ago, I definitely saw a need for something upbeat and exciting that not only celebrated the incredible makers in the area but also built a place for them to connect with shoppers and each other. We do our best to make shopping local fun and memorable.”
So if you’re looking to find one-of-a-kind presents and support independent makers with your holiday shopping this year, Burlington MADE is a great place to start!
The Burlington MADE Holiday Craft Market runs from 10am-4pm on Saturday, November 24th, at the Ron Joyce Centre, 4350 South Service Road, Burlington. Entry is $5, free for children 12 and under. Parking is free and the building is wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.burlingtonmade.com/holiday.
