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Bashaw Humbug Bazaar brings holiday cheer to shoppers

The artisan and crafters bizaar began on Nov. 28 and runs until Dec. 19

The annual three-week long Christmas shopping experience, the Humbug Bazaar, is in full swing.

The bazaar opened as planned, with restrictions in place, on Nov. 28 to an enthusiastic response from shoppers.

“It’s a group of local artisans and crafters that have come together to create a unique shopping experience for the community,” said Moira Gates, one of the organizers.

“There is so much great local talent in this community that it’s a shame to not see it and be aware of it.”

On that first day, Gates says people were lined up waiting to come inside, as only five shoppers and two workers are allowed in at a time.

This year, the popular bazaar has been even busier, and since it began, the number of artisans involved has nearly doubled, says Gates.

“Three years ago, three crafters came together and wanted a place to display their items and that’s how it was born,” said Gates of the bazaar starting up.

The name was chosen simply because it’s Christmas-related.

Gates herself provides some crocheting and sewing for the bazaar.

There is a variety of homemade goods on offer, from paintings, knitting, quilting and wood crafts to jewellery, wreaths, crocheting and Christmas cards.

Gates says there is a mix of holiday-themed and seasonal items with everyday, practical items.

Participating artisans and crafters pay a commission to the bazaar to have their goods displayed, and after expenses, all of the proceeds are donated to a local charity or non-profit agency.

“It’s mostly for the community to have the opportunity to go shopping for something different other than groceries or hardware in a small town,” said Gates.

There is also a donation box for the food bank at the bazaar, so don’t forget to bring your non-perishable foods items. Donations will continue to be collected and delivered to the food bank until the end of the bazaar.

Located at the Meeting Place Coffee Roasters at 4813 50 St., the bazaar is open Sunday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Dec. 19. All COVID-19 health measures continue to be in place.



Emily Jaycox

About the Author: Emily Jaycox

I’m Emily Jaycox, the editor of Ponoka News and the Bashaw Star. I’ve lived in Ponoka since 2015 and have over seven years of experience working as a journalist in central Alberta communities.
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