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December 07, 2015 - 9:00 PM
THOMPSON-OKANAGAN - If you’re hoping to go a less commercial route this holiday season, look no further than the Thompson-Okanagan, a region that boasts numerous handcrafted gifts.
From ceramics to sweet treats, there’s surely a gift to be found for every boy and girl — one that keeps you out of box-store lineups to boot.
Local craft fairs and farmer’s markets are a good first stop if you’re looking for something handmade to fill the stockings this year. Visit the indoor Vernon Farmers Market at Kal Tire Place Dec. 11 and 18 to stock up on goodies. For all things art, the Vernon Community Arts Centre has you covered with the Artsolutely Christmas Show & Sale, on until Christmas Eve.
An array of handmade items will be available at the final winter market in Penticton, at the Shatford Centre Dec. 19.
Peruse the booths of more than 150 vendors at Craft Culture at Prospera Place in Kelowna Dec. 12 and 13.
Or visit one of the last minute craft fairs at A.E. Perry or Juniper Ridge Elementary schools in Kamloops on Dec. 12, or at David Thompson school on Dec. 13.
But if you miss this year’s line-up of craft fairs and winter farmers markets, do not despair. There are many local crafters selling their wares on Etsy, a popular online marketplace for crafters and artisans. From crochet and jewelry out of the Okanagan to clothes and decor from Kamloops, there is something for almost everyone on your list out of the region.
We’ve also rounded up a few other ideas for you from around the region, everything from foods and treats to soaps and glassware. Heck, you might even be surprised at all the region has to offer.
We admit, our list doesn’t have every baker and candlestick maker. We invite you to share your favourite local Christmas gift picks with us. Is there a special something that’s part of your Christmas tradition?
To contact a reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infonews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2015