Derwent Craft Fair Continues To Draw Crowds After 28 Years

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For 28 years, the small community of Derwent has proven that you don’t need to be a big town to host a big event.

The Annual Creative Crafts and Gifts Galore Craft and Trade Show returned to the Derwent Recreation Centre on Saturday, October 17, continuing a longstanding fall tradition that brings shoppers, artisans and small businesses together from across the region.

Hosted by the Derwent Agricultural Society, the popular event has earned a reputation as a destination for those searching for unique handmade creations, specialty gifts and a chance to get a head start on their Christmas shopping.

From homemade baking and preserves to woodworking, needlework, jewelry, clothing, home décor and specialty giftware, the annual show has become known for offering a wide variety of products not always found in traditional retail stores.

The event’s continued success is particularly impressive considering Derwent is a small hamlet with a population of approximately 100 residents.

What began as a modest craft show featuring just eight vendors at the Derwent Seniors Centre has grown into one of the community’s most anticipated annual events, attracting shoppers from throughout the surrounding area and beyond.

Last year’s show featured 52 vendors and this year’s show had a full house of vendors, with another 20 or more that was on a waiting list, demonstrating just how popular the event has become among both shoppers and those hoping to showcase their products.

Much of that success can be attributed to longtime organizer Debbie Nazarchuk, who founded the event and has remained dedicated to its growth for nearly three decades.

Over the years, Nazarchuk has worked to bring together a diverse selection of vendors from across Alberta and Saskatchewan, helping ensure the show continues to offer something different for returning visitors.

“It was another successful year in our little town of Derwent. We had vendors from all over the area and Alberta. Each year I always try to get new and different vendors so our shoppers do not have the same options year after year.

This is why I keep doing it year after year,” said organizer Debbie Nazarchuk.

While shopping remains the main attraction, the annual event is also about bringing people together. For many visitors, it has become a yearly tradition and an opportunity to reconnect with friends and neighbours while browsing the many vendor displays.

Those attending could also enjoy a hotdog lunch and desserts made by the Girl Guides; a part of the event that offers shoppers a chance to sit down, enjoy a meal and visit before continuing their shopping.

Door prizes added to the day’s activities, giving visitors another reason to take part in the annual celebration. Door prizes consisted of craft show dollars of $100, $50, and $25 which the winner can use towards purchases in 2027. Beyond providing an opportunity to find unique gifts, the craft and trade show plays an important role in supporting home-based businesses, independent artisans and small entrepreneurs who rely on events like this to introduce their products to new customers.

For the Derwent Agricultural Society and the many people who contribute to the event’s success, the show is also an example of what can be accomplished through community dedication and years of hard work.

After nearly three decades, Creative Crafts and Gifts Galore continues to demonstrate that even the smallest communities can create traditions with a reach far beyond their borders.