Exceptional Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market- Nov. 8 and 9

The long-running DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market launches the season of holiday markets with both new and popular returning vendors. Continuing its over 40-year history, this respected, high-caliber marketplace includes the crafts market, a fine arts space, satisfying food & beverage options, and a rooftop bar. The event is a vibrant celebration of the remarkable talent and creativity in the West Island, Greater Montreal and surrounding areas. Throughout the weekend, emcee comedian James Mancini will create a fun atmosphere and announce hourly raffle winners. Innovative, original and authentic creations can be found at this year’s non-denominational Holiday Market on Saturday Nov. 8 & Sunday Nov. 9 at the beautiful Dollard-des-Ormeaux Civic Centre from 10am-4pm. Free admission, parking and coat check. (*This year, DDO residents can enjoy an exclusive shopping experience on Fri. Nov. 7 from 3:30pm- 6:30pm.) The DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market features works from over 80 incredible multi-generational, diverse, dedicated artists and artisans spread across two floors. More than just an event, this is an experience. Shoppers go on a pre-holiday adventure including: three market spaces- the Hall-iday Cheer, The Neighbour’s Nook, and Curio Court; the Artists’ Association of Dollard’s annual exhibition and sale; and a healthy lunch from Palépops and fresh gourmet coffee from Lucia Maison de Café at the Craft Café. The Twinkle Terrace space is a rooftop bar with a menu of custom-made, holiday-themed cocktails, mocktails and hot drinks by MTL Craft Cocktails, and specialized food vendors are found throughout the Market. There are discoveries for all ages, budgets and tastes. The Market is not only a welcoming atmosphere, but it brings together people from across the city looking to support small, local businesses and discover truly unique, quality, one-of-a-kind items. Vendors who participate in numerous markets say this one is incomparable. Non-perishable food items and wrapped gifts for the West Island Mission are gratefully placed under the tree, and the Canadian Legion will be at the door accepting donations and handing out poppies. For the kids, the library will be running a ‘create a card’ activity to make a card for a loved one, write a letter to Santa, or craft a card of kindness for hospitals and seniors’ homes for someone who may not be receiving one during the holidays. There is something special for everyone on the shopping list—parents, kids, teachers, friends, spouses, office staff, siblings, team members, and partners. The vast array of multi-sized, attractive booths include various pottery and ceramic artists, remarkable woodwork, distinctive jewellery including silver, bead work, glass and pressed foliage, as well as purses, knitwear, pet accessories, candles, upcycled clothing, travel and car accessories, stained glass, photography, kitchen décor, textile art, children’s clothing, body and skin care, stationery and paper goods, paintings, pieces from the Beaconsfield Quilters Guild, floral arrangements and holiday décor. There is also something for every palate—sweet, spicy, vegan, gluten-free, savoury and salty. Shoppers will discover handcrafted luxury chocolates and macarons (all of which sold out last year) to healthy goodness; options include light snacks, decadent baked goods from exclusive cupcakes and Dubai brownies to keto pastries, along with hot sauces, candy and nutritional treats for the pooches in your life. Holiday joy comes early this year! Links to talented vendors here: https://centreartsdollard.com/holiday-market/ DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market Saturday, Nov. 8 and Sunday, Nov. 9 from 10 am-4 pm (Special early entry for DDO residents on Fri., Nov. 7, 3:30-6:30pm with proof of residency) DDO Civic Centre, 12001, boul. De Salaberry, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Entrance #5, H9B 2A7 Free admission to the Holiday Market’s 3 spaces spread across 2 floors Wheelchair accessible; public transportation nearby For information: 514 684-7414