2024 Christmas Craft Fairs – Mid Island

Once Upon a Craft Fair

Location: Beban Park Social Centre – 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo

• Friday, November 1 – 12:00 – 7:00 pm
• Saturday, November 2 – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 3 – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

This event is Nanaimo's earliest Christmas craft fair. This year, Nanaimo Professional and Once Upon a Craft Fair are joining forces to bring you a spectacular craft fair for 2024. You will also have a chance to win hourly door prizes, and there will be fun activities for the kids.

For more information, including which vendors to expect, visit the Once Upon a Craft Fair website.

The Mom Market

Location: Comox Community Centre – 1855 Noel Ave, Comox

Dates: November 2 & 3 – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Not just for Moms, this 2-day market offers a chance to shop locally and early for those special Christmas gifts.

Enjoy free admission.

South Wellington Country Christmas Craft Sale

Location: South Wellington Cranberry Fire Hall Gym – 1555 Morden Road

When: Sunday, November 3, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Head to south Nanaimo (approximately 1 km south of the Duke Point ferry exit) for a day of shopping and to support local crafters! This country craft fair is the perfect spot to find that unique gift for your loved ones.

A country lunch and concession are also available

Qualicum Beach Cafe Mom Market

Location: Qualicum Beach Cafe – 2690 Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach

Date: Friday, November 8, from 6:00 – 9:00 pm

Shop local while you enjoy delicious food and drinks at the evening market.

Mistletoe Market

Location: The Harbour Quay – 7-5440 Argyle Street, Port Alberni

Dates: Every Tuesday to Saturday from November 6 to December 21 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Artists and artisans from across the Alberni Valley participate in this market. You can find amazing stocking stuffers and gifts, all while supporting locals.

Christmas in the Valley

Location: Alberni Athletic Hall – 3727 Roger Street, Port Alberni

• Friday, November 8, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm
• Saturday, November 9, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 10, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

The Alberni Valley Craft Fair Association is hosting its 52nd annual Christmas Craft Fair this November.

This is the oldest and largest fair hosted in Port Alberni.

Free admission and wheelchair accessible.

For up-to-date info, please visit the Alberni Craft Fair on Facebook.

Knox “Perfect Gift” Christmas Craft Fair

Location: Knox United Church – 345 Pym Street, Parksville

When: Saturday, November 9, from 9:30 – 3:30

For many, this fair has become a highly anticipated event in Oceanside and is a sign that Christmas festivities are underway. Get an early start on your Christmas shopping as you browse through four rooms filled with 75 talented local crafters and entrepreneurs. You're bound to find that “Perfect Gift” for the holiday season.

The fair also offers Festive Music, a BBQ lunch, and home baking.

Free Admission

Please be aware that there are various parking restrictions in the church neighbourhood. At past events, cars have been ticketed when parked too close to residents' driveways, in the No Parking zones, on bicycle routes, by fire hydrants, and at bus stops.

Please bring your shopping bags when possible. Knox also strives to present a scent-free facility. Your cooperation is most appreciated for the comfort of all.

Christmas Chaos Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Cowichan Community Centre – 2687 James St, Duncan

• Thursday, November 14, from 12:00  – 7:00 pm
• Friday, November 15, from 12:00 – 8:00 pm
• Saturday, November 16, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 17. from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Celebrating 44 years of bringing exciting Christmas arts and crafts fairs to the Cowichan Valley. With many vendors, Santa’s Workshop, food, entertainment, and raffles, there’s sure to be something for everyone. This year promises another great event with familiar favourites and several new vendors.

Shoppers will find a wide range of unique products. This includes home décor, specialty foods, baked goods, pottery and art, fabric and fibre designs, clothing, jewelry, beauty and body care products, local wine and spirits, and holiday decorations.

This event is wheelchair accessible and has free admission.

A Handmade Christmas Market

Location: Beban Park Social Centre – 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo

• Friday, November 15 – 2:00 to 8:00 pm
• Saturday, November 16 – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 17 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

This 100% Canadian handmade market combines holiday magic and shoppers' surprises. It is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the Canadian spirit where one-of-kind gifts, hourly prize draws, daily door prizes and other delightful surprises await you. This includes visits with Santa, so make sure to bring your camera!

Visit A Handmade Christmas for more information.

Carols Crafters Fair

Location: North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Road, Nanaimo

Dates: Friday, November 15 to Sunday, November 17, open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm each day.

Over 40 vendors will showcase their hand-crafted, locally-made Artisan Crafts.

Coffee and tea will be available, and tasty hot food will be fresh from the kitchen. The location is wheelchair friendly. Admission is free.

For more information, please visit their website.

Winterfest

Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre – 747 Jones Street, Qualicum Beach

• Friday, November 15, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Saturday, November 16, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 17, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Qualicum's Winterfest Craft Fair is a Celtic-themed event full of live entertainment and a local artist showcase.

This fair offers artisans who produce a wide range of high-quality products, from clothing and jewelry to art, clay and metal works, home decor, toys, children's fashion, gourmet delicacies, and gifts. The organizers have added a dining area in front of the stage, so you can re-fuel to local musical entertainment without leaving the venue.

A portion of your entrance fee goes to local community groups.

Cost: Tickets are $4.00, and you'll receive a free shortbread cookie. Visit the Winterfest website for more information.

Lighthouse Christmas Market

Location: Lighthouse Community Centre – 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay

Date: Saturday, November 16 – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Enjoy 40+ vendors, free draws for gift baskets, and Rizalina's Food Truck.

Campbell River Christmas Market

Location: St. Peter Anglican Church – 228 S. Dogwood Street

• Saturday, November 16, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Make this Christmas Market your destination for the finest in local art and unique, heartfelt gifts. Your presence will support local artists and fill your holiday season with joy, meaning, and community spirit.

This is more than just a market; it's an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of Campbell River. Join them in celebrating the artistry and creativity that make this town special.

Cumberland Winterfaire

Location: Check-in at the Cumberland Museum & Archives, 2680 Dunsmuir Street.

When: November 16 & 17, from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Support local artisans and gifted makers at the Cumberland Museum & Archives Winterfaire. This event celebrates the tradition of handmade goods, homemade food, and festival music for over two days at two locations in the heart of downtown Cumberland.

Winterfaire provides an excellent opportunity to buy one-of-a-kind holiday gifts directly from local artists and makers while supporting a charitable organization.

Admission is by donation, with a suggested price of $5, and all funds raised support the work of the Cumberland Museum & Archives.

Check-in at the Museum on the day of the event.  You will be given a weekend wristband to enter both locations (so keep it on and you won’t be asked to donate again), plus entry ballots for fun and unique door prizes!

Christmas Market at Crown Isle

Where: Crown Isle Golf Course (399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay)

When: Sunday, November 17, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Get your holiday shopping done with local artisans and vendors at the Crown Isle Christmas Market! The many vendors are spread out through the Silver and Copper rooms upstairs and the Ballroom on the main level.

Holly Jolly Handmade Market

Location: Pacific Shores Resort & Spa – 1600 Stroulger Road, Nanoose Bay

Date: Sunday, November 17, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Check out this handmade market at Pacific Shores Resort & Spa brought to you by Mid-Island Artisan Collective. There will be 20 members from the Collective on hand with all sorts of unique items to sell.

As always, this event has free admission and free parking.

Please bring a food item donation to contribute to the local food bank.

Moonlight Madness

Location: Qualicum Beach (downtown)

When: Thursday, November 21, from 4:00 – 9:00 pm

Tis the Season at Moonlight Madness in Qualicum Beach. Enjoy live music throughout town as you shop at participating stores. Santa Claus always appears, and carolers are singing festive tunes.

Yellow Point Country Christmas Tour

Location: Various locations around Cedar and Yellow Point

• Thursday, November 21 – Sunday, November 24, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Thursday, November 28 – Sunday, December 1, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Saturday, December 14 – 10:00 am- 5:00 pm

A variety of amazing artisans and farms will be waiting to help you celebrate the Christmas season on this self-guided tour. As you drive around the area, look for the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan tour logo. Please visit the Cedar Yellow Point Artisans website for more information and a downloadable map and brochure.

This is a self-guided tour, so there is no admission.

Christmas Bucket List Market

Location: 40 Knots Vineyard and Estate Winery (2400 Anderton Road, Comox)

When: Friday, Nov 22, from 2:00 – 10:00 pm; and Saturday, Nov 23, from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

This unique market brings you experiences rather than things and showcases vendors who offer these experiences. Admission is free, with amazing giveaways of up to $2,000!

Free Admission

Cash bar (19+ with valid ID) in the Aurora Vineyard Terrace and the Tasting Room.

Comox Winter Market & Tree Lighting

Location: Downtown Comox: The event occurs at Town Circle and on Comox Ave between Port Augusta St and Nordin St.

When: Friday, November 22, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm

Coinciding with the annual Mayor Tree Lighting evening of events, don't miss this winter market!

• Local Merchants are open until 7:00 pm
• Shop from vendors
• Photos with Santa
• The mayor lights the Christmas Tree at 5:15 pm.
• Entertainment

Mom Market at Averill Creek Vineyard

Location: Averill Creek Vineyard – 6552 N RD, DUNCAN

Date: Friday, November 22, from 5:00 to 9:00 pm

At this Sip and Shop Market, enjoy wine and snacks for purchase while you shop for local goods. Free admission. This event is not just for Moms.

DCS Christmas Market

Location: Duncan Christian School High School Gym – 495 Beech Avenue, Duncan

Date: Friday, November 22, from 2:00 – 7:00 pm

Check out this bigger Christmas Market, which has replaced the original school bazaar. There are lots of fun activities for the kids: a fun fair, cake walk, face painting, and more.

For the adults, there are plenty of vendors, a Christmas photo booth, a concession, and door prizes (featuring the well-loved Dutch stamppot).

Free admission and wheelchair accessible. 

Christmas Market at Dover Bay

Location: Dover Bay Secondary School – 6135 McGirr Rd, Nanaimo

• Friday, November 22, 6:00 – 9:00 pm 
• Saturday, November 23, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 

Volunteers run this event, and all funds go back to the students and supplies at Randerson Ridge Elementary. There are 90+ vendors, raffle baskets and food trucks to enjoy.

Admission is $2.00, and kids under 12 are free.

Deck the Hall Christmas Market

Location: Cowichan Exhibition Centre – 7380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

• Friday, November 22, from noon – 6:00 pm
• Saturday, November 23, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Sunday, November 24, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

The annual “Deck the Hall” Christmas Market welcomes over 120 artisans from all over Vancouver Island and is the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas shopping done while supporting local businesses. From jewelry, textiles and accessories to hand-crafted wooden signs, pottery and food items, there is something for everyone on your list, even your pet. 

Admission to Deck the Hall is free, and a concession is on-site. Be sure to enjoy some tunes by local musicians to get you into the holiday spirit, and don't forget to enter the draw for a door prize. It's an event you won't want to miss!

Nanaimo Christmas Village

Location: Cavallotti Lodge – 2164 E Wellington Rd, Nanaimo

• Friday, November 22: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Saturday, November 23: 10:00 am–5:00 pm
• Sunday, November 24: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Join the Nanaimo Christmas Village to ring in the Christmas season and cross the first things off your shopping list.

• New location this year
• Free parking & free entry (optional donation to The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive)
• More vendors making Christmas shopping extra fun
• Traditional German food to indulge in while you shop

Geeky Christmas Market

Location: Florence Filberg Centre – 411 Anderton Ave, Courtenay

When: Saturday, November 23, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

If you are looking for something special for your favourite Geek, look no further than the Christmas Geek Market. The Comox Valley Geek Society has assembled this unique market with vendors related to some form of Geek. It’s a flea market with all things geeky, including board games, clothing, vintage geek items, Dungeons & Dragons items, homemade toys, apparel, and more.

You can even get a picture with a Darth Vader with a Santa hat by donation.

The Mom Market at Nanoose Bay Cafe

Location: 3521 Dolphin Dr, Nanoose Bay

Date: Saturday, November 23, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Returning to this beautiful location in Nanoose Bay is another great opportunity to shop locally. Hosted by The Mom Market, this event will surely be a great one. And, as it's located in the Nanoose Bay Cafe, you can indulge in some incredible food and drinks, too!

Nanaimo Yacht Club Christmas Craft Fair

Location: 400 Newcastle Avenue, Nanaimo

Date: Saturday, November 23 – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Head to this annual craft fair at the Nanaimo Yacht Club. There are door prizes, free parking, and a full vendor list of options to shop from.

Holiday Market and Winter Wonderland

Location: Superior Farms – 7995 Superior Rd Lantzville

Date: Saturday, November 23, from 1:00 to 6:00 pm

Head to the farm for a seasonal brass concert, ice skating, and a charming winter market. With twinkling lights, festive music, and holiday shopping, it’s the perfect way to start your winter celebrations.

This event also marks the beginning of a season filled with skating nights, winter-themed workshops, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Grinchmas Winter Wonderland Market

Location: 132 Jensen Avenue, Parksville

Date: Saturday, November 23, from 3:00 to 8:00 pm

Looking for festive cheer? Head to the Whoville Winter Wonderland! Grinch fans will enjoy this Dr. Seuss-themed market, where delectable bites and more than 50 vendors await.

Christmas Bazaar & Bake Sale

Location: Parksville Community Centre – 223 Mills St, Parksville

Date: Saturday, November 23, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Check out the incredible vendors at this Christmas Bazaar. There will be Christmas baked goods, chocolate products, cards, soaps, candles, clothing, and many more incredible gift ideas. While there, get a selfie with Santa or a caricature sketch done.

Deck the Halls Indoor Market

Location: Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel – 4277 Stamp Avenue, Port Alberni

Date: Saturday, November 23, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

The holiday event of the Season! Featuring one-of-a-kind and first-time vendors in the market scene. Bakers, canning, crochet, woodwork, beading and much more. The market is set up in the Ballroom. Once you've shopped, grab a bite to eat or drink in the onsite restaurant.

Fanny Bay Christmas Market

Location: Fanny Bay Community Hall – 7793 Island Highway South

• Saturday, November 23, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Sunday, November 24, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

A long-standing tradition, this annual Christmas market features over 30 makers, from edibles to eclectic art, and a large quilt display and sale.

Admission is free, and there's a concession with the tastiest scones ever!

Other markets in the area on the same weekend are at Union Bay and Qualicum Bay, so you can easily make a day of it!

Christmas Craft Fair & Luncheon

Location: Union Bay Community Club, 5401 South Island Highway, Union Bay

Date: Sunday, November 24, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Christmas is just around the corner! Load up on baked goodies, homemade crafts, and so much more.

Ladysmith Christmas Craft Fair

Location: Aggie Hall (1110 First Ave)

When: Thursday, November 28, starting @ 3:00 pm and ending right after the fireworks (approximately 9:00 pm)

Coinciding with the famous Ladysmith Festival of Lights, the Christmas Craft Fair is not to be missed! It's a full afternoon/evening of everything Christmas!

• 3 pm: Christmas Craft Fair @ Aggie Hall opens
• 4 pm: Street entertainment and concessions
• 4:30 to 6:15 pm: Stage Entertainment
• 6:30 pm: Santa arrives – lights are turned on!
• 6:45 pm: Light Up parade starts from 1st Avenue to Aggie Hall
• 9:00 pm (approximate) – Fireworks

Parksville Metaphysical Fair

Location: Knox United Church – 345 Pym Street, Parksville

When: Saturday, November 30,  from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Healers, Readers, Crystals, gifts and much more. Lots of great gift ideas for that special person.

Free Admission.  Free draw for door prizes.

Youbou Christmas Craft Fair

Location: Youbou Community Hall (8550 Hemlock Street)

When: Saturday, November 30, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

For handmade gifts and festive treats, head to Youbou! Wrap up your Christmas shopping at their annual craft fair. Lots of handmade goods, as well as home party show items.

The YCA is serving breakfast, lunch, and beverages to stoke your browsing energy.

The Mom Market

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre – 101 GORDON ST, NANAIMO

Date: Saturday, November 30, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

There is a great line-up of local vendors to shop from at this Nanaimo market.

Black Creek Winter Market

Location: Black Creek Community Centre – 2001 Black Creek Road

When: Saturday, November 30, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Join the Black Creek community this holiday season for your holiday shopping. The rustic country setting provides a cozy and relaxed atmosphere as you hunt for the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

St. Mark's Christmas Bazaar

Location: Church Hall – 138 Hoylake Rd. W, Qualicum Beach (please use upper and lower parking lots and enter off Hoylake).

Dates: Saturday, November 30, from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Don't miss St. Mark Anglican's Christmas Bazaar! Pick up delicious Christmas baking and preserves to impress your friends. Check out the handcrafted gifts, books, curios and treasures, gift bags and those ever-so-mysterious mystery bottles.

Refreshments will be served, so bring your friends and enjoy a muffin and cup of tea. 

A Very Merry Christmas Market

Where: Qualicum Beach Community Hall (Curling Rink) – 676 Memorial Drive

Date: Sunday, December 1, from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm

The annual Very Merry Artisan Christmas Market is an all-local mid-island artisan market.  You can find jewellery, home decor, wine, soaps, locally-made food, and much more. Admission proceeds go towards the Oceanside Hospice Society.

Coombs Country Christmas Market

Location: Bradley Centre – 975 Shearme Road, Coombs

Date: Saturday, December 7, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Decorated with abundant greenery and twinkling lights, guests are invited to embrace the holiday spirit at Coombs Christmas Market. Peruse the abundant vendor booths, grab a bite to eat, and stop at the photo booth for a festive keepsake.

St. Anne & St. Edmunds Christmas Bazaar

Location: St. Edmunds Church Hall – 407 Wembley Road, Parksville

Date: Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

The decorations are up, the baking is ready, and the vendors are set!

Find treasures and goodies for everyone on your list, and be sure to stop and get one of their famous Christmas Cakes, which will be back this year.

There will be baking, Christmas Cakes, and crafts, plus 14 local vendors on site ready to sell you unique gifts for friends, family, neighbours, and more!

Christmas at the Market

Location: 5440 Argyle Street, Port Alberni

Date: Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Get your local treats, snacks, gifts, meats, honey, and other handmade/grown items at the Spirit Square Farmers Market!

River City Christmas Market

Location: Campbell River Community Centre – 401 11th Ave

Dates: December 7 & 8, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Head to the Campbell River Community Center for two days of holiday shopping. There will be two halls of vendors, and a concession stand will be open.

The Holiday Bazaar

Location: Cedar Community Hall – 2388 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo

Dates: December 7 & 8

Discover the magic of the season at the Holiday Bazaar! Explore a curated collection of unique, locally crafted art and gifts that will delight and inspire from 50 local vendors.

• Original artwork
• One-of-a-kind artisan pieces
• Handmade crafts and home goods
• SANTA CLAUS on Dec. 7th from 12-3 pm
• The Steel Pan Food Truck on Dec. 7th
• Ukrainian Delights Food Truck on Dec. 8th
• Yummies & Gyros Greek food catering & Tub of Treats Dessert Truck on both days

Whether you're searching for the perfect holiday decoration, a thoughtful hostess gift, or a unique piece to brighten your own home, the Holiday Bazaar has something to delight everyone on your list. Immerse yourself in the joy of supporting local creators and bringing home gifts that celebrate the best of your community.

The Mom Market

Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre – 747 Jones Street, Qualicum Beach

Dates: December 7 & 8, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

This two-day market is not just for moms; it offers a chance to shop for those special Christmas gifts while supporting local artisans.

The Holiday Market

Where: Nanaimo North Town Centre – 4750 Rutherford Rd, Nanaimo, BC

Dates: December 7, 8, 14 & 15

Hours: Mall Hours

The Mom Market Vancouver Island is hosting a Christmas vendor market inside Nanaimo North Town Centre. Join them for a winter wonderland each weekend for a fantastic shopping opportunity. Free admission ~ Grand Prizes ~ Music ~ Christmas cocktails/ Mocktails ~ and so much more! And remember, this market isn't just for Moms!

Christmas Market & Walk of Lights

Location: Arbutus Meadows – 1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay

Dates: December 7, 14 & 21, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm

Head to Arbutus Meadows each Saturday in December for a magical Christmas event. Talented local vendors will be inside the festive indoor venue, and there will be live music and delicious food.

While there, visit the Lavender Shop for:

• Handmade from the farm lavender products
• Espresso and specialty drinks
• Festive baked goods
• Home décor and more

Outside enjoy

• Festival of Lights Walk
• Bethlehem Village
• Live Nativity Scene
• Farm Animals
• Hay Wagon Rides
• Bonfires and Smores
• Lego Winter Village Display
• Christmas Music

Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market

Location: Aggie Hall – 1110 1st Ave, Ladysmith

Dates: December 14 & 15

Discover the magic of the season at the Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market, a local community event in Ladysmith that is a one-stop shop for all your holiday gift needs. Featuring over 40 local vendors.

• Unique handcrafted items from talented local artisans
• Wide selection of festive decor ornaments and stocking stuffers
• Beautiful art and a cozy atmosphere to get you in the holiday spirit
• SANTA CLAUS on Dec. 14th from 12-3 pm

​Treat yourself or a loved one to a truly special gift this year. The Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market is the perfect place to find that unique, heartfelt present that will make anyone's holiday extra merry and bright. Experience the joy of supporting local creators and celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.