7 Christmas markets happening across Greater Victoria this weekend

The Halloween decorations are coming down, the Christmas lights are going up and the holiday shopping season is officially getting underway across Greater Victoria!

With November now here, some of the region’s most popular Christmas markets and craft fairs are making their return, bringing together talented local artisans, handmade treasures and plenty of festive cheer.

Whether you’re hoping to get an early start on your Christmas shopping, find a one-of-a-kind gift or simply spend an afternoon browsing with a warm drink in hand, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit.

And while Christmas might still be a ways away, there’s something special about wandering through a holiday market filled with handcrafted decorations, delicious seasonal treats and locally made gifts.

Several markets are kicking things off this weekend, from Sidney to Metchosin, with hundreds of vendors expected to showcase their creations.

Here are some Christmas markets and craft fairs happening across Greater Victoria this weekend, November 6th to 8th:

47th Annual Creative Craft Fair

One of Vancouver Island’s longest-running craft fairs is returning for its 47th year, bringing more than 125 exhibitors to Saanich for three days of holiday shopping.

Visitors can browse everything from handmade jewellery and fine art to gourmet foods, clothing, photography, glasswork and Christmas gifts. There will also be music, door prizes and plenty of opportunities to discover something special from local makers.

• Where: G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Road
• When: 
  • Friday, November 6th – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  •  Saturday, November 7th – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
  • Sunday, November 8th – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission: $7 or $8 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 are free with an adult.

First Chance Christmas Craft Fair

Christmas shopping is arriving early in Sidney as the popular First Chance Christmas Craft Fair returns to the Mary Winspear Centre.

Featuring more than 80 artists, artisans and designers, this long-standing holiday tradition is a great opportunity to meet the people behind the products and discover beautiful handmade gifts.

From unique artwork to locally crafted treasures, there’s plenty to explore across the two-day event.

• Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue West, Sidney
• When: 
  • Saturday, November 7th – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
  • Sunday, November 8th – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission: $5 for adults. Children under 12 are free with an adult

Nomad Holiday Market

The Nomad Holiday Market is back, bringing local creativity and holiday cheer to the Songhees Wellness Centre.

Featuring more than 70 vendors, shoppers can expect a colourful collection of handmade gifts, pottery, artwork, clothing and locally produced goods.

Beyond the shopping, the event will feature live music, delicious food, door prizes and a colouring contest for kids, making it a fun outing for the whole family.

• Where: Songhees Wellness Centre, 1100 Admirals Road
• When: 
  • Saturday, November 7th –10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
  • Sunday, November 8th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission: $5

Yuletide Market at Bilston Creek Farm

If your idea of Christmas shopping includes a scenic farm setting and plenty of cozy holiday atmosphere, Bilston Creek Farm has you covered.

The popular Yuletide Market is returning to Metchosin for seven weeks of festive shopping, beginning this weekend.

Visitors can explore locally made products, seasonal gifts and farm offerings while enjoying the beautiful property. Organizers are also planning additional activities throughout the season, including live music, workshops, holiday crafts and food and drink features.

It’s the perfect excuse to escape the city for a little Christmas magic.

• Where: Bilston Creek Farm, 4185 Metchosin Road
• When: Friday, November 6th to Sunday, November 8th – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The market continues on select dates through December 20th.
• Admission: $5, redeemable toward an eligible purchase. Ages 16 and under are free

Spectrum Music Program 8th Annual Christmas Market

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping while supporting young musicians at Spectrum Community School!

Returning for its eighth year, this festive market will feature more than 75 local vendors, along with a bake sale, food truck, raffle and door prizes.

With plenty of handmade goodies and gift ideas to explore, it’s a chance to check some names off your Christmas list while helping support the school’s music program.

• Where: Spectrum Community School, 957 Burnside Road West
• When: Saturday, November 7th and Sunday, November 8th –10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
• Admission: $3 for adults. Children aged 12 and under are free

Christmas at the Lake

The Christmas spirit is heading to Prospect Lake for a community craft fair that offers a more intimate holiday shopping experience.

Hosted at the Prospect Lake Community Hall, Christmas at the Lake is another opportunity to browse for gifts, support local makers and enjoy a festive outing away from the larger shopping centres.

• Where: Prospect Lake Community Hall, 5358 Sparton Road
• When: Saturday, November 7th –10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission: $2 for adults. Children aged 12 and under are free

Silver Swans Winter Craft Sale

For those who love a handmade Christmas, the Silver Swans Winter Craft Sale is returning to Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary.

The Silver Swans are a dedicated group of fabric artists, quilters and crafters who have been gathering weekly since 2011 to create beautiful handmade items in support of the sanctuary.

Shoppers can discover quilts, festive table decorations, Christmas stockings, tree ornaments and other lovingly crafted gifts.

Best of all, purchases help support the nature sanctuary.

• Where: Swan Lake Nature House, 3873 Swan Lake Road
• When: 
  • Saturday, November 7th – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Sunday, November 8th –12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission: Free or by donation