Post by Krista Leben, co-founder of Urban Craft.
When it comes to craft shows, the holiday season may be king, but summer is a close second. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best craft shows to hit up around town this spring and summer!
Handmade Harvest
May 3 & 4, 2014
9am-4pm both days
Almonte Agricultural Hall
195 Water Street, Almonte
This gem of a show out in Almonte, known for its great selection of vendors and swag bags for shoppers in the morning, has expanded to become a full weekend show. Pop by and shop from over 55 different vendors each day.
Admission: $2, kids under 16 are free
Glamour in the Glebe
May 9 & 10, 2014
Friday: 6:30-9:30pm, Saturday: 10am-4pm
Glebe Community Centre
175 Third Avenue
Glamour in the Glebe has become a popular place for mothers and daughters to shop together on Mother’s Day weekend each year. In previous years the show has featured an all-jewelry lineup, but this year the organizers have expanded the show to include everything to pamper your mom: from designer scarves to gourmet chocolates. Pop by the show on Friday night for a complimentary glass of wine and hors’ d’oeuvres with your admission fee.
Admission: $10 on Friday, free on Saturday
Ravenswing Arts and Music Fair
May 25, 2014
11am-5pm
Minto Park
Elgin Street at Gilmour Street
The Ravenswing Arts and Music Fair is an annual outdoor event that supports and showcases Centretown Ottawa’s creative community. The philosophy of Ravenswing Ottawa is DIY: make your own art, make your own music, make your own approach to the world. To support this idea, the fair not only showcases handmade crafts and goods, it offers a day-long schedule of performances by local independent musicians and of skill-sharing workshops for the public—all free.
Admission: Free
Left: Becca Wallace Photography. Right: Meeka’s Creations.
ArtsPark
May 31, 2014
10am-4pm
Parkdale Market
Parkdale Avenue at Armstrong Street
Shop from artists and crafters alike at this fun outdoor show in Hintonburg. ArtsPark is an annual locally-inspired urban arts event that’s low-key, family-friendly, and free! The show features a dedicated children’s program, including art, music, and a bike parade.
Admission: Free
The New Art Festival
June 21 & 22, 2014
10am-5pm
Central Park
Bank Street at Patterson Avenue
The New Art Festival is Ottawa’s largest outdoor art festival. Featuring over 200 artists and entertainers from a full spectrum of disciplines, this annual event draws thousands of visitors and participants from across Canada and around the world. This festival is a great opportunity to buy a unique piece of art directly from the artist, and has become a must-visit for art and craft collectors alike in Ottawa.
Admission: Free
Urban Craft
June 28, 2014
10am-3pm
Glebe Community Centre
175 Third Avenue
Urban Craft, a quartlerly show which features hip, modern and handmade makers is hosting its summer edition in June. Featuring 50 indie & gourmet makers from Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal & beyond, Urban Craft is a place to discover new designers and makers from across Eastern Canada. Check out Urban Craft’s Mash Up Project, which brings together two talented vendors to create a unique new product which will debut at the show.
Admission: Free
Capital Pop Up
July 12, 2014
10am-3pm
Bronson Centre
211 Bronson Avenue
Capital Pop Up! is a brand new to the craft show scene this year, and it comes with a twist: hosting a variety of the most stylin’, talented and creative people in the city. Every artisan at the show will be supporting a local charity of their choice. Proceeds from the show’s organizers will go directly to Gabriella’s Groupies & Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. From vegan, gluten-free goodies to beautiful handmade jewelry & independently designed clothing and baby apparel, there is something for everyone.
Art in Strathcona Park
August 9, 2014
10am-5pm
Strathcona Park
Laurier Avenue East at Range Road
Art in Strathcona Park features over 130 exhibitors, drawn from many fine professional associations. The event features a silent auction, performers, refreshments, and food. Proceeds from the event benefit the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario.
Admission: Free
