Guest Author - Ann Carroll Burgess

Ready to do some serious Christmas market shopping? Then head to mid Vancouver Island, to find a wide range of fairs, markets and artisans selling their ware.

November really kicks off the fair season. Craft fairs continue all month long, but if you want to shop till you drop then get ready for the explosive talent of these creative artists & crafters. The fun kicks off with “Moonlight Madness” November 20th in Qualicum Beach. The streets adorned with lights, garland and wreaths welcome everyone to shop by the light of the moon. The shops are open late and the savings are hot. Then get ready for the “Explosive Weekend of November 27 - 30 when an avalanche of craft fairs welcome visitors into the Christmas Spirit of giving. Last year over 10,000 people enjoyed this weekend wonderland and this year will undoubtedly be even busier with the Kris Kringle Craft Market open 4 days Thursday to Sunday.

The 15th Annual Kris Kringle Craft Market will get you into the Spirit of Christmas as this exceptional one of a kind juried art and craft show features over 120 high quality crafters in a beautifully decorated show. This is a festive feast for the senses – the textures are rich, the aromas sweet, come to the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre for an amazing Christmas treat. Doors open Thursday Nov. 27, 12-9pm, Friday 10am-9pm, Sat. 10am-6pm, Sun. 10am-5pm, admission is $4 day or $5 for all 4 days plus a food donation for the SOS. Loads of door prizes and entertainment all weekend long!
www.kriskringle.ca 250-758-9750

The fun continues Nov. 28-30 with The “Original” and longest running 28th Annual Village Christmas Craft Faire located in the Qualicum Beach Community Hall. Here you will find outstanding exhibits by local award winning artisans. Chose from hand-blown glass and pottery to quilting, jewelry, and everything in between. Friday 11am-8pm, Sat. 10am – 6pm & Sun 10am-4pm. Admission is free. 250-752-9332

The Arrowsmith Potters Guild hosts their Annual Christmas sale Nov. 29th at the Parksville Community & Conference Centre. Find those one of a kind treasures created by the hands of talented artists & potters. 250-954-1872

And check out the Qualicum Weavers & Spinners Christmas Sale Friday and Saturday, November 28 & 29 at Rotary House in Qualicum Beach. You will find a wonderful selection of one of a kind woven crafts and unique selections of wearable art. Come early as they are one of a kind creations. 10am – 4pm Free admission 250-951-2399

Then why not complete the weekend with Music on Sundays at the Old School House Gallery in Qualicum Beach. Always performing beautiful concerts for everyone to enjoy. www.theoldschoolhouse.org 250-752-6133.

Milner Christmas Magic December 5-7, 12-14, 18-21 from 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm.
The Gardens will be lit up with thousands of Christmas lights. Musicians will entertain in the Milner House, decorated in old fashioned Christmas splendour. Guess the number of teddy bears in the gardener's cottage to win a prize or bid on silent auction items.
Gift shops and the lovely tea room will be open. All donations support the garden. Although the Gardens are lit it’s recommended you bring a flashlight.
Golf cart shuttles available for those with mobility issues.
2179 West Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach.
www.milnergardens.org 250-752-6153

The Parksville Fellowship Baptist Church is excited to present their Christmas tradition of the "Bethlehem Walk" December 13-16.
What a beautiful Christmas experience for the whole family!
Come wander the streets of Bethlehem with over 250 people in costume, live animals in a working village atmosphere, awesome decorations, Christmas carols, hot chocolate a truly magical experience! Watch out for the Roman Guards, you could wind up in jail! Shuttle bus service from Wembley Mall at the old TD Bank location. From Dec. 13th until the 16th, 6:00-8:30PM, Parksville Fellowship Baptist Church, 550 Pym St. A special time for pre-schools, special needs, care home residents and care givers is available on Monday morning at 9:30-11:00AM. Come enjoy our Christmas gift to you!
www.parksvillebaptist.org 250-248-6322

Everyone is invited to Parksville and Qualicum Beach Vancouver Island’s Oceanside Region to enjoy the upcoming weekends in wonderland! www.ParksvilleQualicumBeach.com