The parking lot at the Combermere Community Centre was packed on Saturday November 30 for the second annual Holiday Market. Nearly all of the regular Barry’s Bay and Combermere farmers market vendors participated, but there were also quite a few surprises in store for holiday shoppers. A great variety of handmade crafts, seasonal and gift items were on display. While some were made by established market vendors near and far throughout the region, other products were offered by newbie vendors. As Holiday Market organizer Christine Darbyson said, “This is probably one of the most diverse markets in the region. I can’t believe the talent!” Darbyson said the feedback from Holiday Market vendors has been so positive that she is considering another indoor market possibly during February to help “dispel the winter blues.”
Combermere’s own Old School Café and Greenhouses provided catering so no one went hungry at lunch time. Of course, many shoppers left with bags and boxes full of home baking, jellies, meats, and meals. The Current shares a few highlights below:
From left: Christine Darbyson, Holiday Market organizer; Joanne Freeman “Pie Lady” of Maynooth displays her apple pies made from many varieties; Halinka Shulist of Shulist Family Farm (in red) with Sofia Segal from Madonna House (in blue).
Elaine Martin (left) brought her hand made crochet and knit items, while Rick Martin (right) made wreaths, crosses and table centrepieces. The Palmer Rapids pair have been crafting for years but are new to the market scene.
Joanne Healy of Algonquin Great Healing in Whitney (left) with some of her natural products for healing skin and soul; Madawaska Valley Fire Chief Corwin Quade works the Holiday Market selling Christmas ornaments hand-painted by his mother Daffinee Quade.
Patricia McLee of Casey Street Herb & Spice Blends (left) created unique holiday gift packs and offered recipe suggestions. Who knew that Chinese Five Spice Powder is great on French toast? One-of-a-kind wreath (above) made by Michele Etmanskie features a real violin.