The Best Christmas Craft Fairs in Southern Vancouver Island

There's something truly magical about the holiday season on the southern coast of British Columbia. The crisp ocean air, twinkling lights and cozy coastal vibes make this region a perfect place to get into the festive spirit.

If you love handmade goods, local folk artwork, and unique gifts, you will find everything you are looking for at the Christmas craft sales. These fairs appear each winter on the Southern Gulf Islands and Southern Vancouver Island, featuring large displays of talented island artisans all in one location. On the islands, the venues are usually community halls that are fully decked out for the holidays as well as being steeped in island history.

From artisan soaps to unique coffee mugs, Coast Salish artwork, hand-knit scarves and homemade preserves, these markets have it all. They are sure to bring cheer to your holiday shopping experience, all while supporting British Columbia artists. 

Here are some of the locally made marketplaces in the Southern Gulf Islands:

🎄 Salt Spring Island: Artcraft Winter

Where: Mahon Hall

When: November 21 - December 24, 2025

Salt Spring, the artistic heart of the Gulf Islands, has many locally made markets in November and December, but we think our own space, Artcraft Winter, is one of the best spots on the island for holiday shopping. We feature exceptional local artists from all over the Gulf Islands, working in an array of art forms. Expect everything from fine art and handmade ceramics to textiles and gourmet coffee. 

Open seven days a week, our gallery and retail shop provides a great chance to shop local without the overwhelming crowds of the weekend craft fairs. But if you do come on a weekend, you can expect a warm welcome, including complimentary mulled cider every Saturday!

Bonus: The Island has several Christmas craft fairs on weekends from November onwards. It also has outdoor Saturday markets in December. Many small businesses, art galleries and studios, have special holiday hours or open houses during the season. This includes special deals and treats on the Winter Wander shopping night held throughout Ganges from 5-8 pm on Friday, Dec. 5.

🌟 Pender Island: Pender Island Yuletide Market

Where: Pender Island Community Hall

When: Saturdays,  Nov. 15 - Dec. 20, 10 am - 2 pm

This beloved holiday edition of the weekly farmers' market is a highlight for North and South Pender residents—and visitors too. It features more than 50 local artisans, delicious baked goods, and festive ambiance. You’ll find everything from beeswax candles to handmade jewelry.

🧣 Galiano Island: Galiano Artisan Christmas Market

Where: Galiano Lions Community Hall

When: November 29, 9 am - 2 pm

Small but mighty, the Galiano Artisan Christmas Market is a curated showcase of local talent. Many artists, crafters, and makers from the island come together. They offer handmade goods in a cozy and friendly place, brought to you by the Galiano Lions Club.

🎁 Saturna Island: Saturna Christmas Market

Where: Saturna Recreation and Cultural Centre

When: November 29, 10 am - 2 pm

Tiny Saturna Island comes alive with holiday cheer at its annual Christmas Market. Local crafters and bakers fill the rec centre with warmth, laughter, and lovingly made goods. The perfect setting for finding gift ideas with heart.

Southern Vancouver Island’s Top Christmas Craft Shows

The Gulf Islands have a small, charming magic. In contrast, markets on Vancouver Island shine with busy artisan markets, bright city streets, and friendly coastal communities. From beautiful places in downtown Victoria to charming halls in country towns, each market offers a special festive experience.

🎄 Victoria: Out of Hand Modern Market

Where: Crystal Garden, Downtown Victoria

When: November 27-30

The Out of Hand Modern Market is Victoria’s most stylish Christmas craft show. It takes place in the beautiful Crystal Garden building. This craft market has over 100 selected vendors from Western Canada. It features modern handmade goods like fine art, jewelry, fashion, ceramics, home décor, and specialty foods.

Live music drifts through the venue while shoppers sip lattes from the on-site café and browse the beautifully curated booths.

🎁 Sidney: Last Chance Christmas Market at the Mary Winspear Centre

Where: Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney

When: December 12-14

Sidney becomes a winter wonderland every holiday season. The Mary Winspear Centre hosts one of the area's most popular artisan markets. The craft show has a rotating group of local and regional vendors. A great place to find handmade soaps, cozy knits, seasonal décor, and more.

It is near the ferry terminal and Victoria International Airport. This makes it a great stop for travellers who to find the perfect last-minute, locally made gifts.

🌲 Sooke: Sooke Country Christmas Craft Fair

Where: Sooke Community Hall

When: November 14-16

The Sooke Country Christmas Craft Fair is a true community favourite. This fair features talented West Coast makers. You can find woodwork, glass art, preserves, art prints, and knitted goods. It has a warm and festive atmosphere.

🎨 Metchosin: Metchosin Christmas Spirit 

Where: Metchosin Community Hall

When: November 29-30

Nestled in the rural forest beauty of Metchosin, this charming craft fair is a hidden gem. It provides a close-knit market experience. You can find many artful craft items like pottery, beeswax candles, and hand-sewn goods. 

Enjoy homemade soup and baked goods as you browse. You might even chat with the artist behind your favorite find.

✂️ Esquimalt: Esquimalt Holiday Market

Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre

When: November 23, 11 am - 5 pm

The Esquimalt Christmas Craft Fair is just minutes from downtown Victoria. You will find a lively mix of handmade and upcycled goods, holiday treats, and festive cheer. A fun, family-friendly event awaits, perfect for casual gift shopping or finding your new favourite maker.

✨ Final Thoughts

The Southern Gulf Islands and Southern Vancouver Island have many lovely holiday makers markets to offer. They celebrate creativity, community and the magic of winter by the coast.

Something special awaits everyone, including some of the best places to buy artisan-made gifts in Canada. From stocking stuffers to one-of-a-kind treasures, you won't want to miss this chance to support local. So, ferry over, bundle up, and let the holiday spirit guide your journey through the artisan markets of the Salish Sea.