Edmonton and the surrounding communities have long maintained a culture of supporting local artists and entrepreneurs. Now, with all the news stories swirling about supply chain issues and shipping delays, shopping local this holiday season has never been more appealing or important. We thought we’d gather a quick guide to some of the holiday markets and local shopping options available to our community this year. Here you can find high quality and unique gifts for your loved ones while supporting the ambitions and dreams of our local artists and businesses. Be sure to follow all COVID safety protocols while shopping and have a wonderful holiday season!
A Very Indigenous Holiday Market
Dates: December 10-12
Location: Alberta Aviation Museum
More Information: facebook.com/I.A.M.MarketCollective/
This local market will feature authentic, all Indigenous entrepreneurs and performers. Admission is free, but donations of winter clothing, toiletries, and cash will be collected. Door prizes will also be given away throughout the three-day event. Full vaccination or a negative COVID test with 72 hours is required.
Unite by TMK
Dates: Open 7 days a week
Location: Kingsway Garden Mall
More Information: unitebytmk.com
While not a traditional holiday market as it operates in Kingsway Garden Mall, Unite by TMK is an option for shoppers looking to support local entrepreneurs. It operates as both a multipurpose space and market with “mini shops” to reduce various start up costs for entrepreneurs. Over forty vendors can be found in this space.
Royal Bison Art & Craft Fair
Dates: Online November 26-December 12 & In Person December 3-5 & December 10-12
Location: 8426 Gateway Blvd
More Information: royalbison.ca
If you are not yet comfortable with being in a crowd, the Royal Bison Art & Craft Fair is offering a hybrid online and in person market for the 2021 holiday season. This curated market offers unique arts and crafts from over 100 makers across the prairies. Full vaccination is required to attend in person.
Edmonton Christmas Market
Dates: November 26-28, December 3-5, December 8-12
Location: Army & Navy Whyte Ave November 26-28, December 3-5 & Fort Edmonton Park December 8-12
More Information: publicxmasmarket.com
This year the annual Edmonton Christmas Market is expanding to Fort Edmonton Park as well as operating in its previous Army & Navy location. General admission for the market starts at $5 and it features dozens of market and food vendors, pop-ups, and DJs. Full vaccination or a negative COVID test with 72 hours is required.
Signatures Butterdome Craft Sale
Dates: December 2-5
Location: University of Alberta Butterdome
More Information: signatures.ca/butterdome
One of Edmonton’s longest running holiday markets, the Signatures Butterdome Craft Sale is back for the 2021 season. If you are looking for variety, this market features the work of over 200 Canadian vendors. General admission is $8 and safety protocols are in place, including full vaccination requirements.
Holiday Market at the River Cree Resort & Casino
Dates: December 3-5
Location: River Cree Resort & Casino
More Information: rivercreeresort.com/event/holiday-market
Operating from 12 – 8 daily, this new indoor market at the River Cree Resort & Casino offers live music, local First Nations, Métis, and Inuit vendors, Indigenous cuisine, and free photos with Santa. Admission is free!
Wholly Handmade
Dates: December 11-12, December 18-19
Location: 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park
More Information: instagram.com/whollyhandmade
Featuring over 100 vendors on each weekend of the event, Wholly Handmade is a great option for shoppers in Sherwood Park. Admission is free and a vaccine mandate is in place to attend.