by Jo Barnes –
Christmas is just around the corner and this year you’ve promised yourself not to leave your shopping until the last minute.
You could go online and shop from your computer, but everything seems so expensive. You could visit the big box stores and save some money, but nothing is really unique and special. If only you could find some place which had unique, one-of-a-kind gifts that were reasonably priced and where the service and craftsmanship reflects the way it was years ago.
From December 2 to 4, the annual craft show A Touch of Saltspring will be held once again at the Panorama Recreation Centre located at 1885 Forest Park Drive in North Saanich. What’s more, the entry fee is the same as in 1991: $5 for three days. The creative craft extravaganza draws large crowds every year.
“It’s the largest craft show on Vancouver Island,” says Ed Price, Event General Manager. This year there will be 240 artisans from all over B.C. and as far away as Alberta. “The Gulf Islands are still the backbone of the show, but we have vendors all the way up to Sointula, Northern B.C. and the mainland too,” says Ed.
Returning this year are artisans like Saltspring Soap, David Wood’s cheeses, and Tony Marcano silverworks. One newcomer is Karen Jones, who will be showcasing her very unique cowboy boot bird houses (pictured).
With so many participants, it’s a massive undertaking to organize this show, but that wasn’t always the case. A Touch of Saltspring began in 1991 with just Ed and a few fellow artisans from Saltspring. They noticed a hole in the craft show calendar.
“December was a dead month for craft shows, so we started this show on the Peninsula,” says Ed.
The creative group brainstormed ideas, rented a space, opened the doors to the public, and the rest is history.
“We have a lot of people (vendors) who have been with us for over 20 years. It’s their best show. Some have children who are now involved,” says Ed.
All the action kicks off on Friday, December 2. Doors open daily at 10 a.m. with the show wrapping up at 8 p.m. on Friday and 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Overflow parking is available at the Field of Dreams baseball diamond parking lot and a free shuttle bus service will run between there and the Rec Centre. The event is wheelchair accessible.
While the show has grown over the years, its mission remains the same: connecting those who create with those seeking special gift items. Don’t miss this show; you’ll not only cross items off your Christmas list, but those items will be unique and you’ll be supporting local artisans who are making timeless creations.
