Indigenous Markets Spring Up Across the City Ahead of the Holiday Season

As Christmas approaches and the hunt for meaningful gifts ramps up, Indigenous Christmas markets across the city provide an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artists and programs.

These markets feature a wide array of handmade goods, including jewelry, printed art, and apparel, offering something special for everyone on your list.

Shkoday Arts and Crafts Market

On Saturday, Shkoday will host an arts and crafts market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1610 John St. Road.

Eugema Ings, program director for Shkoday, explained that the market not only showcases local artisans but also raises funds for Shkoday’s community programs.

“It’s kind of neat to have that aspect there too. Everybody’s unique in how they craft,” Ings said.

The event will also include bannock and soup for sale, a door prize for a Christmas tree donated by Kiwanis Tree Lot, and an auction table featuring gift baskets and other items.

Annual Indigenous Christmas Market

On December 14 and 15, the annual Indigenous Christmas Market will take place at the CLE Colosseum Building, open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

John Ferris, coordinator for the Aboriginal Artworks Group of Northern Ontario, said this year’s event will feature around 200 artisans from across northern and southern Ontario.

“It’s a great time to meet and greet, and it’s truly a joyful season,” Ferris shared. “Our show has grown to include all kinds of traditional artworks, which will be on display and available for purchase.

Additional Market Highlights

• November 28 & 29: The Outpost at Lakehead University will host an Indigenous Winter Artist Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., showcasing crafts, clothing, and carvings by local Indigenous artists.
• November 25: The Anemki Art Collective will hold an Indigenous Artist Market at Goods and Co. Market, also from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

These markets provide a chance to not only find unique gifts but also support Indigenous artisans and their communities during the holiday season.