Go for gold, shop handmade!

Local markets offer Games visitors a break from the Olympic sponsors

Not all the action will be taking place in Olympic venues this month. Locals and out of towners, welcome to Vancouver’s handmade community! A range of markets and craft events are on tap for February, offering a feast of local art, handmade baubles, jewellery and design.

Let these five events guide you on an adventure of sustainability, creativity and handmade delights.

 

Blim ‘Olympic Edition’

www.blim.ca

Sunday, February 21, 2010

11–4 p.m.

Heritage Hall, 3102 Main St

Features more than 30 local vendors encompassing nearly all facets of city life from food to records, including live music and hot food.

 

Art of Craft

www.museumofvancouver.ca

January 14 through April 11, 2010

Museum of Vancouver, 1100 Chestnut St

As part of the Cultural Olympiad, Art of Craft showcases 173 spectacular fine craft works from Canada and the Republic of Korea.

 

Scraps Vancouver

www.scrapsvancouver.com

February 10 through March 3, 2010

10–6 p.m.

4770 Main St

Scraps Vancouver is a pop-up shop consisting of vendors that make items out of salvaged or pre-used materials that offer authentic sustainable alternatives to conventional products and services.

 

Canamade

www.canamade.com

February 11–28, 2010 [Update: More dates added, March 12–21, 2010]

11–8 p.m.

151 West Cordova St

Canamade is a handmade market featuring a diverse range of vendors that will appeal to everyone on your list including live DJ’s and a licensed lounge.

 

Qortezan Market

www.qortezan.com/Artisan-Market

February 12–28, 2010

10–7 p.m.

1035 Mainland St

A bohemian artisan market located in Yaletown boasting a range of local vendors, including jewellery makers, clothing designers, painters and more.