Your Guide to Vancouver Island Craft Fairs 2026
Start making that list and checking it twice. The beginning of November correlates with the start of many local Christmas Craft Fairs. You'll have plenty of opportunities to shop locally in November and December. Read below for a comprehensive list of holiday fairs and markets found in the Mid-Vancouver Island area.
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Early November Christmas Craft Fairs
Once Upon a Craft Fair
Location: Beban Park Social Centre – 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo
- Friday, November 6 – 12:00 – 7:00 pm
- Saturday, November 7 – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 8 – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
This event is Nanaimo's earliest Christmas craft fair, and it's a great one. Along with over 110 makers, you will also have a chance to win hourly door prizes. The event also includes fun activities for kids, with guaranteed prizes.
For more information, including details on the vendors to expect, visit the Once Upon a Craft Fair website.
Christmas in the Valley
Location: Alberni Athletic Hall – 3727 Roger Street, Port Alberni
- Friday, November 6, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm
- Saturday, November 7, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 8, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Alberni Valley Craft Fair Association has been running since the 1970s, and it's the largest annual fair in Port Alberni.
Free admission and wheelchair accessible. There's a gift basket draw each day.
Jingle Bell Market
Location: Alberni District Secondary School, 4000 Roger Street, Port Alberni
- Saturday, November 7, 2026: 10 am–5 pm
- Sunday, November 8, 2026: 10 am–4 pm
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Jingle Bell Market in Port Alberni! Explore two floors of artisan displays at Alberni District Secondary School, featuring more than 55 artisans from across Vancouver Island.
Browse handcrafted gifts while local musicians provide the soundtrack to your shopping. Grab something sweet or savoury from the “What the Funnel” food truck, and enjoy three gift basket giveaways featuring items donated by participating artisans.
Knox “Perfect Gift” Christmas Craft Fair
Location: Knox United Church – 345 Pym Street, Parksville
When: Saturday, November 7, 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.
Saltair Winter Market
Location: Saltair Community Centre Hall (3850 South Oyster School Road)
Date: Saturday, November 7, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Head to this market for a festive celebration that blends the best of a Christmas market, farmers market, and artisan fair—all in one!
Mid-November Christmas Craft Fairs on Vancouver Island
Christmas Chaos Arts & Crafts Market
Location: Cowichan Community Centre – 2687 James St, Duncan
- Thursday, November 12, from 12:00 – 7:00 pm
- Friday, November 13, from 12:00 – 8:00 pm
- Saturday, November 14, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 15, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Christmas Chaos celebrates 46 years of handmade holiday shopping with more than 120 vendors, familiar favourites, and plenty of new artisans to discover. Browse pottery, artwork, home décor, clothing, jewellery, and fibre creations, along with specialty foods, baked treats, local wine and spirits, and festive decorations.
With Santa’s Workshop, food trucks, entertainment, and raffles adding to the fun, it’s a cheerful way to kick off the holiday season—and find a few thoughtful gifts along the way.
Admission is free, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. For more information, call 250-748-7529 or visit the Christmas Chaos website.
Campbell River Christmas Market
Location: St. Peter Anglican Church – 228 S. Dogwood Street
- Saturday, November 14, 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 supports local artists and fills 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.
Hop into Winter Christmas Market
Location: Parksville Community Centre (223 Mills Street)
Date: Saturday, November 14, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Presented by VI Fluffle, this free winter market features 40 vendors. Shop for Christmas while supporting your local rabbit rescue and local artisans! You will find something for the WHOLE family!
Glenwood Hall Christmas Market
Location: 4480 Vimmy Street, Port Alberni
- Saturday, November 14, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 15, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Along with the many vendors, there are lots of fun special events happening, including live music both days (1:00-3:00), face painting (Sunday only), door prizes and more.
Moonlight Madness
Location: Qualicum Beach (downtown)
When: Thursday, November 19, from 3:00 – 9:00 pm
Kick off the holiday season at Moonlight Madness! Enjoy shopping, live music, family entertainment, street performers and special promotions. Santa will also make an appearance. Businesses stay open late and decorate for the holidays.
Yellow Point Country Christmas Tour
Location: Various locations around Cedar and Yellow Point
- Thursday, November 19 – Sunday, November 22
- Thursday, November 26 – Sunday, November 29
- All locations open 10 am – 5 pm
BONUS! The vendors will be open an extra weekend on Dec. 12 & 13!
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.
Lighthouse Christmas Market
Location: Lighthouse Community Centre – 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay
- Saturday, November 21, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Sunday, November 22 – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Enjoy 40+ vendors, free draws for gift baskets, and Rizalina's Food Truck.
Moonlight & Magic
Location: Downtown Courtenay
When: Friday, November 20, from 5:00 – 8:30 pm
Moonlight & Magic takes over Downtown Courtenay for an evening of delight, wonder, shopping and winter fun. The festivities begin with the Official Tree Light-Up, kicking off the festive season and inviting everyone to explore the streets, discover something new, and get a head start on holiday shopping.
This year's theme is ‘Elf Yourself'. So, expect elves around every corner! Look for pointy hats, playful surprises, live music, interactive art, roving performers, food trucks, and plenty of family-friendly fun that will keep young and old smiling as the night sparkles on.
Winterfest
Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre – 747 Jones Street, Qualicum Beach
- Friday, November 20, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday, November 21, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 22, 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 features artisans producing a wide range of high-quality products, from clothing and
A portion of your $5 entrance fee goes to local community groups.
Visit the Winterfest website for more information.
A Handmade Christmas Market
Location: Beban Park Social Centre – 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo
- Friday, November 20 – 2:00 to 8:00 pm
- Saturday, November 21 – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Sunday, November 22 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
This 100% Canadian, handmade market blends holiday magic with shopper surprises. It celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the Canadian spirit, with one-of-a-kind gifts, hourly prize draws, daily door prizes, and other delightful surprises. This includes visits with Santa, so bring your camera!
Visit A Handmade Christmas for more information.
Christmas at Filberg Market
Location: Filberg Park, Comox
When: Saturday, November 21, from 3:00–7:00 pm
The Kick-Off evening features Santa’s visit, artisan vendors at the Outdoor Winter Market, warm food and drinks for purchase, kids’ crafts, live entertainment, and the Filberg Gift Shop open for holiday shopping. You can take free photos with Santa (using your own phone) or professional photos for $10 (cash only).
Entry is by donation, with proceeds supporting the ongoing restoration and maintenance of Filberg Lodge and Park.
After the Kick-Off, the Park will remain open nightly until December 31 to enjoy the beautiful Christmas light displays — free of charge!
Winter Vendor Market
Location: Superior Farms – 7995 Superior Rd, Lantzville
Date: Saturday, November 21 & Sunday, November 22, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Kick off the holiday season at the Winter Vendor Market, a festive weekend filled with local shopping, holiday magic, and farmyard fun! Browse unique goods from Vancouver Island “Makers” while enjoying food from Taco Papi and Jack’s Grilled Cheese. Warm up at the bar with hot chocolate, coffee, and other hot beverages.
The petting farm, retail shop, and the twinkling Winter Wonderland Greenhouse are open all weekend, making it the perfect place to find gifts, enjoy holiday treats, and make lasting memories.
Christmas Market at Crown Isle
Where: Crown Isle Golf Course (399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay)
When: Sunday, November 22, 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 across the Silver and Copper rooms upstairs and the Ballroom on the main level.
Late November Christmas Craft Fairs & Markets
Ladysmith Christmas Craft Fair
Location: Aggie Hall (1110 First Ave)
When: Thursday, November 26, 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 a must-see! 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
Nanaimo Christmas Village
Location: Wellington Hall (3922 Corunna Ave, Nanaimo) – New location this year!
- Friday, November 27: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday, November 28: 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Join the Nanaimo Christmas Village to ring in the Christmas season and check off the first items on your shopping list. Enjoy 30 Island makers, plus traditional German food to indulge in while you shop.
Free parking & entry by donation.
Deck the Hall Christmas Market
Location: Cowichan Exhibition Centre – 7380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan
- Friday, November 27, from noon to 8:00 pm
- Saturday, November 28, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday, November 29, 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!
Ho Ho Ho Handmade Market
Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre (747 Jones St).
When: Saturday, November 28, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Make your holiday shopping merry and memorable at this holiday wonderland featuring more than 60 local vendors. Discover intricately crafted jewelry, cozy winter apparel, sweet treats, personalized home décor, and more.
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 28, from 9:00 am – 12:00 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 a cup of tea.
Youbou Christmas Craft Fair
Location: Youbou Community Hall (8550 Hemlock Street)
When: Saturday, November 28, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
For handmade gifts and festive treats, head to Youbou! Wrap up your Christmas shopping at their annual craft fair. Find lots of handmade goods, plus home and party show items.
The YCA is serving breakfast, lunch, and beverages to stoke your browsing energy.
Black Creek Winter Market
Location: Black Creek Community Centre – 2001 Black Creek Road
When: Saturday, November 28, from 9:00 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.
Fanny Bay Christmas Market
Location: Fanny Bay Community Hall – 7793 Island Highway South
- Saturday, November 28, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Sunday, November 29, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
A long-standing tradition, this annual Christmas market features over 30 makers, crafters, artisans, plus a large quilt display and sale.
Admission is free, and there's a concession stand with the tastiest baked goods!
Cumberland Winterfaire
Location: Check-in at the Cumberland Museum & Archives, 2680 Dunsmuir Street.
When: November 28 & 29, from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Support local artisans and gifted makers at the Cumberland Museum & Archives Winterfaire. This event celebrates handmade goods, homemade food, and festival music over two days at two downtown Cumberland locations.
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 Toy & Craft Fair
Location: Campbell River Sportsplex – 1800 South Alder Street
Dates: November 28 & 29, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on both days
Explore one of Vancouver Island's largest and longest-running craft fairs! Featuring over 70 island-wide and local crafters. Visitors can browse unique booths and purchase a wide variety of items.
Christmas Craft Fair & Luncheon
Location: Union Bay Community Club, 5401 South Island Highway, Union Bay
Date: Sunday, November 29, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Load up on baked goodies, homemade crafts, and so much more.
Christmas Artisan Market
Location: Bradley Centre (975 Sherme Road, Coombs)
Date: Sunday, November 29, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Support Coombs' community centre by shopping at their Christmas Artisan Market. Take your time browsing their selection of local vendors offering heartfelt, homemade goods, and grab a concession to enjoy while you shop.
Geeky Christmas Market
Location: Florence Filberg Centre – 411 Anderton Ave, Courtenay
When: Sunday, November 29, 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.
There's even an ugly-Christmas-sweater contest! Plus, you can get a picture with Vader Santa.

December Christmas Craft Fairs and Markets
Christmas Night Market
Location: Qualicum Beach Community Hall (644 Memorial Avenue) and down Veterans Way
Date: Friday, December 4, from 3:00 to 7:30 pm
Qualicum Beach Farmers Market hosts a magical Christmas Night Market under twinkling lights. Browse unique handmade treasures from over 100 local Vancouver Island vendors, snack on gingerbread, Christmas cookies, and hot chocolate, meet Santa, and listen to festive holiday music while you shop for gifts.
South Wellington Country Christmas Craft Sale
Location: South Wellington Cranberry Fire Hall Gym – 1555 Morden Road
When: Saturday, December 5, 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.
Gnarly Little Christmas Craft Fair
Location: Florence Filberg Conference Hall (411 Anderton Avenue, Courtenay)
Date: Saturday, December 5, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Celebrate young talent at this 18th annual craft fair. The craft fair showcases handmade goods made and sold by local youth ages 9 to 19, giving young makers a chance to share their creativity with the community. Visitors can expect a variety of unique, locally made items and plenty of holiday gift ideas.
Mid Island Artisans Markets
Hosted by Mid Island Artisans, the Christmas Artisan Markets feature artists' pieces, including paintings, pottery, decor, and home goods. Find unique goods for even your trickiest gift recipients on your holiday shopping list.
Dates | Times | Location
- Saturday, Dec. 5 | 9:00 am to 2:00 pm | Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones St, Qualicum Beach
- Saturday, Dec. 12 | 9:00 am to 2:00 pm | Nanoose Place Community Centre, 2925 NW Bay Rd, Nanoose Bay
- Saturday, Dec. 19 | 9:00 am to 2:00 pm | Jensen Centre, 132 Jensen Ave E, Parksville
Coombs Country Christmas Market
Location: Bradley Centre – 975 Shearme Road, Coombs
Date: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Decorated with abundant greenery and twinkling lights, guests are invited to embrace the holiday spirit at Coombs Christmas Market. Explore the many vendor booths, grab a bite, and stop by the photo booth for a festive keepsake.
Nanoose Bay Christmas Crawl
Location: Various spots
Date: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Brought to you by Nanoose Bay Studio Tour, this Christmas Crawl lets you step inside local artists' studios, galleries, and businesses to immerse yourself in art and creativity while shopping for well-crafted goods. A unique twist on traditional craft fairs, the Christmas Crawl invites you to experience the artist's world before browsing their handmade pieces.
A Very, Merry Christmas Market
Location: Qualicum Beach Community Hall (644 Memorial Avenue) and down Veterans Way
Date: Sunday, December 6, from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm
Back for its 8th year, this market helps raise funds for the Oceanside Hospice Society. Shop local artisans, get your tarot cards read and enjoy delicious food from Extreme Eatery. The Qualicum Beach Ukulele Band will also be playing throughout the day.
Christmas Market & Walk of Lights
Location: Arbutus Meadows – 1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay
Dates: December 5, 12 & 19, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm
Head to Arbutus Meadows each Saturday in December for a magical Christmas event. Talented local vendors will fill the festive indoor venue, along with live music and delicious food.
While there, visit the Lavender Shop for:
- Handmade from the farm's 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 S'mores
- Christmas Music
Mistletoe and Magic Handmade Market
Location: Beban Park Social Centre, Nanaimo
- Friday, Dec. 11, from 2 – 8 pm
- Saturday, Dec 12, from 10 am – 5 pm
- Sunday, Dec 13, from 10 am – 4 pm
This 100% Canadian, handmade market brings holiday magic and shopper surprises together. It celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the Canadian spirit, with one-of-a-kind gifts, hourly prize draws, visits with Santa, and other delightful surprises.
Visit their website for more information.
A Fair Christmas Market
Location: 4090 Hollywood Street, Port Alberni
Date: Saturday, December 12, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Brought to you by Alberni District Fall Fair, this annual market hosts many local vendors, artisans and makers.
Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market
Location: Aggie Hall – 1110 1st Ave, Ladysmith
Dates: Saturday, Dec 12 & Sunday, Dec 13, from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Discover the magic of the season at the Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market, a local community event in Ladysmith, your one-stop shop for all your holiday gift needs.
- Unique handcrafted items from talented local artisans
- Over 60 Local Vendors, plus food truck outside!
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.
Have I missed any other Vancouver Island Christmas Markets in the Mid-Island area?
I will update this article with additional events if I come across any.
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This was exactly what I was looking for! Thank you!
These are great places to find presents.
Thank you for a lovely comprehensive review of the island Christmas markets.
You are so welcome!
Great list!
Yes, we are pretty spoiled to have such a great line-up of fairs and markets.