The 26th annual Fiesta World Craft Bazaar, Nov. 17 and 18 at the Filberg Centre, is a giant global shopping extravaganza.
As you wind your way amongst 50 vendors and 120 tables, you will travel the world, learning about the artisans and delighting in the handmade products they have created.
You will be amazed at the variety. There is something for everyone on your list, including yourself, from Tibetan carpets to shea butter face creams, and children’s toys to stylish clothing.
Local vendors, international causes
You may be surprised to know that half of the organizations and businesses involved in Fiesta are based in the Valley.
Five vendors will be coming from Vancouver, and 20 from Victoria and the Island. Each are passionate about the country and the people they are supporting through their sales. Many are volunteers. All profits support projects in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America.
Mosqoy will be bringing high-end shawls and scarves from the Peruvian Andes. Nica Ceramica has eye-catching vases from Nicaragua. Amanda is bringing exquisite jewelry from West Africa. Jackee Kasandy of Kenya will dazzle you with her selection of purses and leather bags. Simzi Crafts specializes in high-end baskets, including colorful telephone wire baskets from South Africa. Be it a silk scarf from Cambodia, a yak shawl from Tibet, a brightly designed pillow cover from Zimbabwe or an apron from Uganda, your global experience will be a win-win. You and the artisan you have supported will both be happy.
You can make a difference locally by buying pet treats from the Beaufort Association, delicious soups and classy candles from L’Arche, and unique and handmade Christmas cards from the Art Cards program at the CRA. The Wachiay Studio and One Tribe will be featuring screen printing and T-shirts.
Patrons can donate to a variety of grassroots projects. All money goes to those who need it. Two local refugee committees will be selling shortbread cookies, scarves and cards. Lunch at the Fiesta Restaurant will feature Mintra’s Thai Salad Rolls, and Janette and Lorena will make their delicious El Salvadorian pupusas and butternut curry soup. Child Haven will raise money for their orphanages in India by selling samosas and pakoras. Sit and savour the friendly atmosphere of inclusion and co-operation and fairness and fun as you meet old friends.
Both days run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are fewer shoppers on Sunday.
We will again be drawing 25 door prizes donated by vendors.
Volunteers still needed
It takes many volunteers to make Fiesta the success it has become. Would you please consider volunteering a few hours of your time? Please contact co-ordinator Dave Talbot by email at kye_bay@shaw.ca or at 250 339-4975 and be part of the feel good fun of
FMI: fiestafairtradefair.ca or the Fiesta World Craft Bazaar Facebook page.