Vermilion’s Festival Of Crafts Brings Holiday Magic To The Regional Centre

Some Vermilion Dance students with Santa. Photo Sonya Lee

The holiday spirit shone brightly in Vermilion on Sunday, November 9, as The Friends of the Vermilion Regional Centre hosted the 3rd annual Festival of Crafts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Regional Centre buzzed with excitement as families, friends, and visitors from surrounding communities came together to kick off the Christmas season in style.

Throughout the day, guests wandered through rows of local vendors, admiring handcrafted items and supporting small businesses from across the region. The air was filled with festive music, laughter, and the scent of freshly baked treats drifting from the concession area, where guests enjoyed everything from homemade soups and sandwiches to sweet holiday desserts.

Santa made his grand appearance, posing for photos with smiling children and families. Meanwhile, the team from VIBE kept the little ones entertained with free craft activities, allowing kids to create their own take-home holiday treasures. A balloon artist added to the fun, twisting and shaping colorful balloons into imaginative creations that drew cheerful crowds.

Adding an extra touch of magic, beloved Christmas characters roamed the venue throughout the day. Olaf, the Grinch, and Buddy the Elf brought laughter and joy, stopping for photos and playfully interacting with guests of all ages. Kiddie Oasis offered free childcare services, giving parents a chance to browse the market’s many offerings at their own pace.

Admission was free, though silver donations were gratefully accepted to help support future community events at the Vermilion Regional Centre. The Festival featured an impressive variety of artisans and creators, with tables lined with wooden signs, pottery, jewelry, knitted and crocheted items, bath bombs and salts, mugs, home décor, and countless other handcrafted goods. It truly was the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and soak up the festive atmosphere.

By the afternoon, the building was alive with conversation and holiday cheer as shoppers connected with local makers, shared stories, and celebrated the spirit of giving that defines the season. Organizers expressed their gratitude for all who attended, volunteered, or contributed to making the day a success.

The Festival of Crafts once again reminded Vermilion of the joy that comes from gathering as a community, shopping local, supporting one another, and embracing the magic of the holiday season together.