Creative Crafts And Gifts Galore: 27th Annual Craft & Trade Show “Christmas In October” Theme

The 27th year of the Creative Crafts and Gifts Galore Craft & Trade Show was celebrated in style on October 18, with the theme “Christmas in October,” turning Derwent Recreation Centre into a winter wonderland for a day. The event, organized by Debbie Nazarchuk, drew hundreds of visitors pouring through the doors.

The excitement around the event was palpable, with eager shoppers waiting to enter at the 10 a.m. opening time. The Centre was transformed into a bustling marketplace of 52 vendors, offering a wide array of products, from baked goods and preserves to woodworking, needlework, home-based businesses, giftware, jewelry, clothing, décor, and more. Such was the event’s popularity that there was a waiting list of 25 eager vendors to be part of this annual sale; as every year the event draws 100’s of shoppers.

The vendors had an exceptional day of sales, with patrons impressed by the variety and number of vendors, many of whom were not previously seen in the area.

“Everyone who attended had the opportunity to enter their name into three door prizes which were creative craft cash of 1st prize $100, 2nd prize $50 and 3rd prize $25 which can be used at any vendor booth in the 2026 event. Derwent Hotel and Pizza donated two door prizes, and there was a special draw just for the kids that came out,” said Nazarchuk.

Nazarchuk, the event’s founder and sole volunteer organizer for 27 years, reflected on the event’s remarkable growth, saying, “I started the event with only eight vendors at the Derwent Seniors Centre. The vendors each brought a pan of squares in hopes of attracting a small crowd. Now, 27 years later, the recreation centre was filled to capacity both upstairs and downstairs with vendors and patrons. Every year I reach out to unique vendors all over Alberta and even Saskatchewan and invite them to our event, bringing with them new and exciting products, so it’s not the same vendors you see every year,” explained Nazarchuk.

“Every year, I LOVE seeing the empty hall transformed into the gorgeous display of crafts and baking and so many wonderful things. I think this is why I keep doing it. That and what it brings to Derwent. It’s truly incredible that our town of only about 100 people has something that is attended by almost 1,000 people!”

Hunger was certainly not an issue for shoppers as the kitchen was run by the Myrnam graduation class who sold homemade menu items such as soups, sandwiches, pies and desserts. The funds will go towards their upcoming graduation.

The craft sale is sponsored by the Derwent Ag Society, an organization that takes great pride in hosting such an event in their community.

It was truly a day to shop, support, and socialize at the 27th annual event and it was a remarkable celebration of artistry, and community. As the event organizer Nazarchuk looks to the future, it’s clear that this tradition will continue to thrive for years to come. “It’s crazy, heartwarming, and absolutely amazing. Not sure if I’ll keep doing it for another 27 years, but I’m already thinking ahead for next year!”