While it may feel early to be talking about the holidays right now, I think 2020 is going to be different in how we approach everything, Christmas shopping included.
Because of concerns with postal delays, I think we will be having to ship our gifts across the country earlier than usual. Plus, we don’t want to be watching a tracking ID constantly if that one special gift is delayed, so I think we will see even more reliance on local shopping. Luckily, that’s a fave of mine so I’m happy about that.
I have been book marking upcoming markets and sales for makers and small businesses that I wanted to share with you. (I will also share anything especially neat I find in my upcoming gift guides!)
When I participated in the Spring Time Cheerfully Made sale, I loved browsing and shopping with multiple vendors and only paying one shipping fee to have it all delivered. Where you are scoring delivery or local pick up, mark your calendars to check out, attend and shop at one (or many) of these local markets.
Something I LOVE about buying gifts from markets is that every item is so unique. So I have no worry about someone already owning the item or it being picked up at a big box store by others. These are special gifts!
TIP: There’s no rule that says you have to shop these markets for gifts only. There is nothing wrong with treating yourself too!!
Save the dates on these upcoming local virtual markets. Shop from the comfort of your home. Shop early to ensure they get shipped on time. And shop knowing you are supporting local businesses! YAY! THAT puts me in the holiday spirit.
ps: While I am featuring markets that have gone virtual and are Ottawa based, many will ship across the country!
pps: I have included the Facebook pages for the events so you can click ‘going’ and get notified with updates!
Virtual (Local) Holiday/Craft Markets
Pride, Not Prejudice Online Craft and Community Fair
When: November 5-8
Not every market has to be holiday focused to be the perfect place to shop and find gifts.
Here’s a brief exert for the upcoming Pride, Not Prejudice Fair: “A chance for “social justice warriors,” feminists, queers, and other progressive folks to come together, support makers and artists within that community, and share resources.”
Also, it’s organized by Ifs, Ands or Buttons, a shop that I love. I’ve already started browsing!
A portion of the vendor fees and sales are being donated to Families of Sisters in Spirit and The Odawa Native Friendship Centre
Find out more on their Facebook page
Oh What Fun Happy Holiday Shopping Event with Cheerfully Made
When: November 5-8
I attended the spring Cheerfully Made market online and bought a lot of amazing items. They have a single shipping rate even if you buy from multiple vendors which I love.
Cheerfully Made has a shop in Almonte and you may have been to their holiday markets in the past so it’s so nice to see them going virtual this year.
Browse their online shop and you are guaranteed to find something to help you cross someone off your to-buy-for list.
More information can be found here.
HoliYAY Holiday Craft Market
When: November 26- December 24
Hosted by Freewheeling Craft, this event is happening over an extended period of time (November 26 – December 24) so even if you are a last minute shopper they have you covered.
I love that HoliYAY will plan for local pick ups and deliveries so you know you’ll be able to get your items in time for your special celebrations!
Find out more information on their Facebook page.
Happy Holidays Virtual Market by Ottawa Artisans
When: November 12-15
Over 200 vendors are coming together for the Ottawa Artisans Happy Holidays virtual market.
This market will offer a flat rate shipping fee across Canada, a local Ottawa deliver fee and FREE local pick up. This makes it super convenient to shop and ship!
PS: They currently have a series of giveaways happening on social media!
