Craft Fair a special start to festive season

The annual event is the perfect start to Christmas preparations. Offering unique local artisan gifts and seasonal atmosphere, the Guildhall Craft Fair attracts people from throughout the North West who are keen to sample something special and more than the growing consumerism of the festive season.

Elaine Griffen event organiser with Derry City Council said: “The Guildhall Craft Fair is a really special event and aims to support local producers to promote and sell their work as well as putting Derry on the map as the shopping destination with a difference.

“We are extremely delighted at the response and feedback we have had from the local craft industry and the quality of produce that is on offer.

“The Fair always has a great atmosphere and generates a real warm buzz as we start to build up to the Christmas period. It is a unique and highly attractive seasonal event which reflects the unique talents and culture of the region with appeal for both locals and visitors alike.”

This year’s fair promises to be bigger and better than ever. With 54 exhibitors from all over Ireland, it offers an amazing and extended variety of unique handcrafted gifts. Artists will display a wide range of textiles, knitwear, literature, jewellery, ceramics and more.

Producers will be on hand to answer any queries or offer advice to ensure you find exactly what you are looking for. Whether that’s a one off present, something really special or some stocking fillers with a difference, the Craft Fair brings it all together for you in the wonderful setting of the city’s historic Guildhall.

This year’s fair also offers people a last chance to visit the historic building before the Guildhall closes for renovations at the end of this month due to reopen early 2013.

A programme of live musical performance throughout the weekend including the Codetta Choir and the Foyle Harp School adds to the festive vibe and makes the whole experience a relaxing, warm feel good start to winter.

The event attracted large numbers last year with over 4,000 visitors to the city. It is anticipated that this year’s fair will be enjoyed by even more people.

Mayor Alderman Maurice Devenney said he looks forward to the Craft Fair as one of the highlights of the city’s festive calendar.

“I love the Christmas season and look forward to the Guildhall Craft Fair as a place where people can share their unique individual talents and entrepreneurial spirit.

“I think it’s important that we as a council and as a community do our best to support local industry and independent retailers, particularly in the current climate.

“It’s great to see such a wide variety of producers coming together for this event a reflection of our vibrant craft industry.

“The event is a joy for locals and visitors who are browsing for something different as it offers insight into our local culture and a truly unique shopping experience. The event is a great boost to local traders and I wish the organizers and exhibitors every success.”

The Fair opens from 2pm to 8pm on Friday, November 18 and continues over the weekend of Saturday, November 19 (10am to 6pm) and Sunday, November 20 (11am to 5pm).

Entrance fee is £1. Further information on the craft fair and the exhibitors attending the event can be found by visiting www.derrycity.gov.uk/crafts or follow on facebook at Festive Time.