Indie craft fairs to visit this summer
This ain’t your grandma’s bazaar — the new makers’ markets highlight the best in local and handmade, from covetable cushions made from upcycled coffee bags to chai-flavoured ice pops. It’s like watching Etsy come to life before your very eyes! They’re popping up across the continent, so check out an event nearyouthissummer.
Calgary: Market Collective Created to build community through arts, the market showcases hundreds of artists and musicians—it’s basically one big arty party. Don’t miss the kitschy photo booth: The theme changes each month — perfect for profile pics.
Winnipeg: Winnipeg Makers & Market It’s like taking all the hippest boutiques and squeezing them under one roof. Browse for everything from tasty pickles to silkscreened pillows, while local bands play in this turn- of-the-century converted sewing factory.
Edmonton: Edmonton Mercer Collective The Mercer Collective’s pop-up sales in Edmonton features a craft table where kids can make owl masks while makers from their teens to their 90s sell works of art and handmade jewellery.
Halifax: The Crafters Society Exquisite hammered-gold jewellery, hip hooked rugs and homemade soda are just a few of the fabulous wares available here. Browse while DJs spin tunes and food trucks line up outside.
Toronto: City of Craft Curated by Toronto’s up-and-coming artisans, this fair is whimsical and fun. You’ll wow friends with your finds — think beautifully bound books, cool ceramics and art galore. Sign up for fab workshops like paper marbling.
USA: Renegade Craft Fair The longstanding godmother of indie design is the incredibly-cool Renegade Craft Fair, a network of markets in cities like Brooklyn, Chicago and Austin that incorporates original art installations in their exhibits.
Online: If you’d rather shop for Canadian designs from the comfort of your own couch, the newly launched One of a Kind Online offers a digital version of the large Toronto craft show.
