Have a holly jolly Christmas, it’s the best time of the year! We know there won’t be (much) snow, but have some market cheer!
The holiday season has officially begun, Victoria. News of Christmas markets, craft nights, gift ideas, holiday drinks, and more have hit social media and we’re more than excited to get in on the fun.
If you weren’t already aware, there are plenty of markets in and around Victoria that sell artisanal goods, homemade goodies, art, and much more.
We also know that it can be overwhelming to try and remember them all! Where was that one again? How much does entrance admission cost?
No worries! We’ve got you covered and have compiled a comprehensive market list for your convenience. And whether you celebrate Christmas or not, there’s plenty to found and lots of fun to be had at a good holiday market.
So, get out your Christmas sweaters and here’s 31 holiday markets in and around Victoria:
Strawberry Vale Christmas Craft Fair
This lovely beloved craft fair kicked off their 38th year on Friday, November 3rd and runs up until Sunday, November 5th—so, you have plenty of time to check out their treasures.
Their wide variety of handmade items include Christmas decorations, body care products, original artwork, knitting, pet products, clothing, honey, jams, and much more!
There’s even a chance for attendees to win door prizes, including a basket filled with items from the artisans and free cash to spend at the show!
For the full list of vendor goods, visit their website.
- Where: 11 High Street at the Corner of High Street and Burnside Road West in Victoria,
- When:
- Friday, November 3rd from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Saturday, November 4th and Sunday, November 5th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mini CREAM Holiday Bazaar
CREAM Bazaar wants everyone to have a stress-free shopping season and invites everyone to begin their shopping early at their Mini CREAM Holiday Bazaar market!
They will have 15 local vendors selling their beautiful wares, tarot readings, and more. There will be a photo op where you can get a fun friend, family or solo portrait taken too!
In honour of the giving season, they will be collecting non-perishable food items for Community Fridge Victoria, so bring what you can.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CyWoN86yT0u/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Where: CREAM Bazaar, 1923 Fernwood Road
- When: Saturday, November 4th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Holiday Handmade at Mayfair Centre
Want a true head start on holiday shopping?
Sift through stunning locally created goodies from over 40 different handmade artisans at Mayfair Centre on Saturday, November 4th and Sunday, November 5th!
100% unique gift ideas all in one place and waiting for you—shop for your parents, your siblings, your partner, and maybe get something extra for you.
- Where: Mayfair Centre, 3147 Douglas Street
- When:
- Saturday, November 4th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, November 5th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
First Chance Christmas Craft Fair
Come and be one of the first to take a peak at JLee Creations’ First Chance Christmas Craft Fair at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney!
You and your fellow attendees will get a sneak peak at what’s being offered—including loads of stunning jewelry, art, cards, candles, and so much more.
All of the artisans present have put their heart and soul into each piece, so it’s a guaranteed special gift for your special someone!
- Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
- When:
- Saturday, November 4th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, November 5th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Westshore Craft Crawl
Holiday shopping AND an interactive experience?—sign us up!
Freckled throughout the West Shore area in Langford, you’ll find over 50 different vendors spread out between 10 convenient locations.
Their interactive map makes it simple and fun!
If you wish to take a peak at the full list of available vendors, you can view their handy-dandy spreadsheet.
- Where: All over West Shore in Langford!
- When: Sunday, November 4th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Yuletide Christmas Market Series
This is a market you won’t want to miss!
With over 90 local businesses over 7 different market days, you’re bound to find something you like at the Yuletide Market Series—whether it’s a gift or a treat for yourself!
The first market will open on Friday, November 10th and will run on select days until Thursday, December 21st. For the full schedule, check out their page.
November 10th’s market will feature vendors such as Beeautiful Planet, Bits of Bliss Confectionary, Bussard Grove Pottery, Caitlyn Chapman Studio, Crowfoot Collective, and dot.Naturals.
Each will bring a new rotation of vendors, so it’s fresh and unique every time you visit.
Entry is $5 per person.
- Where: Bliston Creek Farm, 4185 Metchosin Road
- When: First market is Friday, November 10th and will run on select days until Thursday, December 21st—10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Nomad Holiday Market
Vancouver Island is full of talented nomads, which is why the Nomad Holiday Market was created especially to showcase their wonderfully one-of-a-kind items!
Always creative and always pushing boundaries, you’re invited to browse through some of BC’s finest artists from Friday, November 10th to Sunday, November 12th.
Whether it’s for someone on your holiday shopping list or just you, they promise items that will surely ‘wow’ you!
Admission is $5 at the door for a single day, or you can pay $8 for a weekend pass.
- Where: Songhees Wellness Centre, 1100 Admirals Road
- When:
- Friday, November 10th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, November 11th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, November 12th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Creative Craft Fairs
It’s a community favourite for a reason—don’t miss out!
Every year, Creative Craft Fairs offers a true extravaganza of outstanding arts, crafts, and demonstrations with their three day event at Victoria’s Pearkes Rec Centre.
Home to thousands of visitors each year, the fair offers over 125 exhibitors presenting crafts, gourmet food, fine art, photography, clothing, glass art, jewelry, bath and beauty products, woodwork, high-quality imports and much more.
Check out exhibitors like Lochside Pottery, Planet Mushrooms, and even Mystic Moth Apothecary, who will be doing on-site psychic readings!
Plus, Greek On the Street will be providing food, and hourly draw prizes will be given away.
- Where: G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Road
- When:
- Friday, November 10th from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, November 11th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, November 12th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Calico Christmas Market
Calico Christmas is thrilled to invite everyone out for their 36th annual Christmas market at the Spectrum Community School!
The market will take place over the course of two days, both Saturday, November 11th and Sunday, November 12th.
They’ve chosen 100 local vendors to shine at this year’s event—browse through a rich selection of gourmet food, bath and body care products, ceramics, gardening decor, and much more!
There will also be a couple of food trucks with hot food and drinks to warm your bellies while you look around.
As the event falls on Remembrance Day, all activity will be halted at 11 a.m. to participate in the two minutes of silence.
Weekend admission costs $5 cash and it includes an entry ticket into a prize draw for Vancouver Canucks tickets and hotel package!
Kids 12 and under get in for free.
- Where: Spectrum Community School, 957 Burnside Road West
- When: Saturday, November 11th and Sunday, November 12th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Metchosin Hall Arts & Crafts Fair
Join the Metchosin Hall Society for the Metchosin Hall Arts & Crafts Fair—a vibrant event celebrating local creativity and talent!
Plenty of marvelous crafted art pieces and creations from talented local artists and artisans that are sure to brighten up anyone’s home.
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you browse through the diverse collection of artistic treasures and socialize with fellow attendees and booth holders!
Admission is free and there will be refreshments up for grabs.
- Where: Metchosin Hall, 4401 William Head Road
- When: Saturday, November 18th and Sunday, November 19th from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Owl Designer Fair
Free craft workshops AND an artisan market with over 40 vendors? Yes, please!
Everything that you’ll find at the market has been handmade or upcycled by local artists and designers.
Gather round with your family and friends and listen to their provided live music as well!
Entrance admission is $4 for adults and free for kids.
- Where: Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Avenue
- When:
- Saturday, November 18th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, November 19th from from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Magic of Christmas Artisan Market
Back for their 9th annual market and ready for action!
Head on over to the Eagle Ridge Centre on Saturday, November 18th and Sunday, November 19th for some holiday cheer, goodies, and exceptionally created items from local artists.
As described, this year you’ll get to browse over 130 handmade artisans vendors—the perfect place to shop for Christmas gifts!
Admission is $3 and kids 12 and younger get in for free.
- Where: Eagle Ridge Centre, 1089 Langford Parkway, Langford
- When:
- Saturday, November 18th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, November 19th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Christmas Vintage, Retro & Collectible Show/Sale
Classic red and green colours, lots of sparkles, tons of vintage collectables—it’s all here at the Christmas Vintage, Retro & Collectible Show/Sale at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney.
They’ll be jam-packed with 50 vendors all offering the coolest of the Christmas oldies, such as holiday decorations, jewelry, toys, books, furniture, and so much more!
Entrance admission is $5 cash at the door, but if you’re dying to get in early, you can pay the early bird fee of $20 and have first dibs at these incredible finds.
Children 12 and under get in for free if they’re accompanied by an adult!
- Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue
- When: Sunday, November 19th from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (early birds is 8:30 a.m.)
Holiday Market at Cedar Hill Recreation Centre
Not only will they have a great selection of over 30 local vendors, they’ll also have snacks and beverages provided by Second Chance Café!
Bring the family, enjoy a treat, and shop ’till ya drop.
This event is free to attend!
- Where: Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, 3220 Cedar Hill Road
- When: Sunday, November 19th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Indigenous Pop up Shop YYJ Winter Artists Market
Support local Indigenous artists and check out the unbelievable talent featured between 45 different creators on three different dates throughout the season!
The first one will be Sunday, November 19th, followed by their next dates on Sunday, December 3rd and Sunday, December 10th.
Anything from custom printed t-shirts with Indigenous art to beaded jewelry can be found and purchased!
- Where: 1110 Hillside Avenue
- When: Hours for each date are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Sunday, November 19th
- Sunday, December 3rd
- Sunday, December 10th
Out of Hand Modern Market
The 34th annual Out of Hand Modern Market is upon us!
Every year they offer a highly curated selection of beautiful goods made by hand by over 120 of Western Canada’s most accomplished and talented artists and makers.
This year, they’ll be running from Friday, November 24th to Sunday, November 26th at the Crystal Gardens in downtown Victoria.
Buy directly from the creators of stunning jewellery, pottery, bodycare, fashions, food, wine and spirits, décor and more!
There will also be live music, an onsite coffee bar and a Sip and Sit Lounge to make your holiday shopping experience the best it can be.
General admission is $10 for anyone 13 or older and you can use it at any point during the three day event—however, it’s only good for one entry, but you can upgrade to a weekend pass for an extra charge as you depart the event.
VIP ticket packages are also being offered, which gives you front-of-the-line entrance during the event.
- Where: Crystal Gardens, 713 Douglas Street
- When: Runs from Friday, November 24th to Sunday, November 26th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Oaklands West Coast Winter Market
The Oaklands West Coast Winter Market is beloved by the community and is back for another incredible year of craft goods.
As always, you will wander the exceptionally curated vendors with fresh produce, prepared foods, art, crafts, services and more!
Bring the family and your friends for some great food, music, and good vibes.
Entry is by donation with a minimum donation requirement of $5 for adults.
- Where: Oaklands Community Centre, #1-2827 Belmont Avenue
- When: Saturday, November 25th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winter Market in Vic West
The perfect holiday stop for you and your family!
The Winter Market is hosted by the Victoria West Community Association and will feature goods from local artisans and offers the perfect opportunity for you to pick out Christmas gifts for your loved ones!
There is no admission fee to come into the market.
- Where: 521 Craigflower Road
- When: Saturday, November 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
VIDEA’s Winter Fair
Support the incredibly talented Indigenous community and join fellow VIDEA Winter Fair fans at the Fernwood Community Centre for a look at all of the unique creations!
Fantastic finds include Fair Trade and Indigenous goods, food from The International Women’s Catering Co-op, tea and coffee, crafts, and more.
Admission is by donation and you can RSVP here to let them know you’re coming!
- Where: Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Avenue
- When: Saturday, November 25th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Handmade Village Craft Market
Hosted at the North Douglas Church, this market will feature 50 stellar local vendors!
Included amongst the goodies will be art, clothing, baked goods, jewelry, candles, bath and body skincare, upcycled items, wood art, kids and baby apparel, and much more.
There will be a food truck and a coffee truck on site!
Admission is free but they will be accepting either cash donations or canned food items for the Mustard Seed Food Bank.
- Where: North Douglas Church, 675 Jolly Place
- When: Saturday, November 25th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Holiday Market and Silent Auction
The Cook Street Village Activity Centre is putting together a special holiday market and silent auction on Saturday, November 5th for your enjoyment!
Over 30 different vendors in three different rooms and plenty of amazing auction items for you to get your hands on.
Winners of the items will be announced the Monday following the event.
To reserve your table, call 250-384-6542.
- Where: Cook Street Village Activity Centre, 380 Cook Street
- When: Saturday, November 25th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
EFM Annual Holiday Market
The Esquimalt Farmers Market is legendary and so is their annual holiday market!
Bring your family and friends and browse their collection of local gifts and stocking stuffers that will be sure to make any recipient smile.
There will also be some of your favourite food trucks and live music throughout the day!
- Where: 527 Fraser Street, Esquimalt
- When: Sunday, November 26th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Touch of Salt Spring Christmas Show
This years Christmas Show edition of the Touch of Salt Spring Craft & Art Show is going to host 200 vendors at the Saanich Fairgrounds and will run for three whole days!
Peruse from Friday, December 1st to Sunday, December 3rd and find a thoughtful gift for a loved one. Naturally, you can treat yourself too (we don’t tell!).
Admission is $5 and will give you access to all three days.
- Where: Saanich Fairgrounds, 528 Stellys Cross Road
- When:
- Friday, December 1st from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, December 2nd from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, December 3rd from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nerdy Days of Christmas
This is for all of the lovely nerds out there—ourselves included!
Get ready for the 10th annual Nerdy Days of Christmas market and find a gift or treat that truly speaks to your inner geek.
This galacticly fantastic craft market is held in Market Square on both Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entry is by donation and all of the proceeds go to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation!
- Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street
- When: Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sooke Winter Market
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, the Winter Market returns to Sooke Region Museum!
They’re thrilled to present pre-dominantly Sooke-based vendors and creatives—both new and returning community favourites.
Additionally, their Moss Cottage will be decorated for the holidays and open for tours as will their Triangle Island Light House, which has been closed for repairs!
- Where: Sooke Region Museum, 2070 Phillips Road
- When: Saturday, December 2nd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dickens Fair
This fair is described as one of the oldest and most beloved in Victoria!
This year the Dickens Fair by the James Bay Market Society is celebrating their 42nd years of bringing holiday joy.
There will be over 50 vendors selling handmade and affordable goods for a wonderful Christmas shopping experience!
Shop around and chat with the artisans and creatives at the booths—they’d love to talk to you about what they do, their inspirations, and why each item is unique.
Admission is $3 for adults and free for kids under 12 if they’re accompanied by an adult.
- Where: James Bay Community Centre, 140 Oswego Street
- When: Saturday, December 2nd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WinterFest at the Royal BC Museum
Grab your winter jackets, this outdoor market is one you won’t want to miss!
The Royal BC Museum invites you to experience their celebration of culture, arts, and community with a mix of warm drinks, local vendors, performances, and more.
The event will occur over two days, from Saturday, December 2nd to Sunday, December 3rd.
Find the perfect gift for someone or stop by for a warm drink and a show—either way, you’ll have a wonderfully festive time!
This event is free to attend.
- Where: Royal BC Museum, 680 Douglas Street
- When: Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair
The second installment in the JLee Creations’ Christmas Craft Fair at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney and it runs for three days!
Between Friday, December 8th and Sunday, December 10th, you and your fellow attendees will get a final look at what’s being offered this year—including loads of stunning jewelry, art, cards, candles, and so much more.
All of the artisans present have put their heart and soul into each piece, so it’s a guaranteed special gift for your special someone!
- Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue
- When:
- Friday, December 8th from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, December 9th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, December 10th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Holiday Market at The Hub
Up for a quick holiday road trip?
The Hub at Cowichan Station in Duncan is hosting a holiday market!
There will be loads of vendors, food, and perhaps a visit from one very jolly individual.
- Where: The Hub at Cowichan Station, 2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan
- When: Sunday, December 10th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Crew Holiday Craft Fair
Get ready for some wicked finds for a good cause!
It’s great to shop, but it’s even better when it’s going towards something that will help others.
Admission is $2 and all proceeds go towards youth initiative CREW pre-Employment and Lifeskills Program!
- Where: Quadra Village Community Centre, 901 Kings Road
- When: Sunday, December 10th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Punk Holiday Market
After a successful first year, the Punk Holiday Market is back for their second year, and they’re expanding!
There will be over 40 different vendors and a rocking band to rattle the floors starting at 8 p.m. Invited back to the stage are the Angry Snowmans with openers SHE, Sandinista, and Adicted.
Come and mingle with your friends before the holidays, rock out, and shop from a fabulous group of makers to round out your holiday gift giving!
General admission is $5 at the door and kids 12 and under get in for free. A portion of market admission will be donated to the Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association!
Tickets for the bands have yet to be released, but stay tuned to the event page for full details.
- Where: Da Vinci Event Centre, 195 Bay Street
- When: Saturday, December 16th from 11 a.m. to 11:55 p.m.
Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments or email tips@victoriabuzz.com!
