Shop Local: Craft Fairs in and around Moncton for the Holidays

Time to Read: 4-5 min

It’s a surprise every year in Moncton: snow on the ground, everyone talking about how cold it is, our kids excitedly writing their wish lists, and the Halloween decorations quickly being swapped with holiday cheer in stores. They’re all signs that it’s November already.

I do have one confession: I am a last-minute holiday shopper (December 21 to be specific). I find myself rushing around Champlain Place in search of the hottest toys, clothing, food, cards, and electronics for my family. Can you relate?

This year will be different. 

There are so many great craft fairs in and around Moncton to enjoy for the holidays. Local artisans, crafts, clothing, décor, toys, warm cider, friendly faces, music…it’s a magical experience.

Here are a few upcoming craft fairs to put on your list to help you get ready for the 2018 holiday season:

1. 20^th Annual Christmas Craft Fair

Where: Crandall University, 333 Gorge Road, Moncton, NB

When: Saturday, November 10 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Cost: $3 per person (kids 12 and under are free)

Details: profits support Crandall University’s Single Parent Scholarship Fund. There’s a large variety of vendors selling food, clothing, and crafts

2. 6th Annual Wintergreen Craft and Gift Fair 2018

Where: Moncton Lions Club, 55 Mark Avenue, Moncton, NB

When: Saturday, November 17 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $2 per person (kids 12 and under are free)

Details: supports The Nature Trust of NB. There will be live music, yoga from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., and over 60 vendors

3. Magnetic Hill Christmas Tea and Craft Fair 2018

Where: Magnetic Hill School, 3346 Rte 126 Hwy, Westmorland County, NB

When: Saturday, November 17 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cost: $2 per person (kids 12 and under are free). To include lunch: $7 per person, $4 for students, and free for children two and under

Details: fully booked tables full of crafts, products, and baked goods. Students will also be serving lunch and tea or coffee. There may even be a visit from Santa!

4. 5th Annual Mistletoe Market

Where: Northrop Frye School, 1392 Ryan Street, Moncton, NB

When: Saturday, November 17 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cost: $2 per person (kids 12 and under are free)

Details: choir performances, canteen of goodies, and over 45 vendors to browse. Proceeds go towards classroom improvement

5. Turner’s Christmas at the Coliseum

Where: Moncton Coliseum, 377 Killam Drive, Moncton, NB

When: Three dates!

• Friday, November 23 from 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Saturday, November 24 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Sunday, November 25 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: general admission is $6.50 per person, student admission is $5.50 per person

Details: over 300 vendors that feature woodworking, jewellery, toys, clothing, crafts, food, and more. Tickets can be bought online here or by calling 1-888-720-5600

6. Christmas Craft Fair

Where: Irishtown Community Centre, 2603 Route 115, Irishtown, NB

When: Saturday, December 1 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE admission

Details: over 60 vendors! Local artisans will be showcasing homemade products, gift baskets, crafts, and more

7. 2^nd Annual Friends of the Trojans Holiday Fair

Where: 80 Echo Drive, Moncton, NB

When: Sunday, December 2 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $2 per person

Details: a variety of vendors will be selling crafts, beauty products, food, and much more. Join this non-profit organization that helps improve student life for their second holiday fair!

8. Holiday Hoopla Bazaar

Where: 145 Lakeside Drive, Riverview, NB (Riverview Community Hall)

When: Sunday, December 9 from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: FREE admission!

Details: browse through over 40 vendors of local products and crafts

9. Last Minute Holiday Shop Chocolate River Farmers Market

Where: 145A Lakeside Drive, Riverview, NB

When: Wednesday, December 19 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Cost: FREE admission

Details: variety of different foods, jewellery, crafts, home décor, and more!

Now that you have your holiday shopping schedule, you should prepare before you go. Craft fairs and markets are BUSY and can be overwhelming.

Before you go:

• Bring your own reusable shopping bag to carry your haul
• Arrive EARLY to avoid larger crowds and get the best, freshest selections (better parking too!)
• Budget before you go – plan your max budget to avoid overspending
• Most stalls are cash only, so have cash on hand to make purchases and avoid ATM fees
• Dress warm – but not too warm (you’ll feel hot quickly)
• Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated
• Make your way through the exhibition area TWICE

You can find comfort in buying local – you get unique products and gifts you cannot buy elsewhere while supporting your local community. There’s something special about giving a handmade gift too!

We hope you enjoy spending time at these local craft fairs with your family and friends, grabbing a treat or two, and surrounding yourself with the magic of the holiday season.

Are you planning to visit one of these local craft fairs? Share with us below – we would love to hear about your favorite products or what you’re hoping to find this year!

Photo Credit (in order of appearance): Wee College, Turner’s Christmas, Wee College