Holiday Cheer in Vernon: Your Guide to Local Markets & Events
As the holiday season approaches, Vernon transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with local markets and pop-up artisan shops filled with festive spirit, handcrafted treasures, and seasonal treats. From intimate artisan gatherings to bustling holiday fairs, these businesses showcase the best of local talent and make it easy to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. Here’s your guide to immersing yourself in the warmth of Vernon’s holiday cheer.
Vernon Presents: A Festival of Crafts & Gifts (Nov 13 & 14)
Kick off the holiday season on November 13th and 14th at the 25th Annual Winter Festival of Crafts at Kal Place. Featuring more than 100 vendors from across BC and Alberta, this beloved event is the perfect place to find unique gifts and get a head start on your holiday shopping. Browse an incredible selection of handmade treasures, from original paintings and artisan pottery to handcrafted candles, jewelry, table linens, creative crib boards, homemade salsa and so much more. With something for every taste, interest and age, you’re sure to discover a few special finds along the way!
Farmstrong Christmas Market (Nov 21 & 28)
The Farmstrong Christmas Markets return for two magical Saturdays this November. With over 60 vendors, festive food and beverage options, and free wagon rides, this market is a holiday experience like no other. Be sure to park at the IPE grounds in Armstrong and take a shuttle to Farmstrong, as no parking is available onsite. Visitors are encouraged to bring cash for ease of shopping.
Discover Yuletide at Allen Brooks Nature Centre (Nov 21)
Discover Yuletide at Allen Brooks Nature Centre and celebrate local art, nature, and creativity. Discover locally made gifts such as sweet treats, jewelry, ceramics, paintings and so much more. Bring your family and friends to find something truly special for Christmas.
Frostival (Nov 27th)
The Downtown Vernon Association is kicking off the festive season with Frostival on Friday, November 27th from 4pm - 8pm. Stroll along 30th Avenue (Main Street) and enjoy free music, artisanal vendors, holiday characters and festive activities for the entire family!
SANTACON at Predator Ridge (Nov 27)
Hundreds of Santas, one very merry night at Predator Ridge. Join us for SantaCon, as Predator Ridge fills with red suits and holiday cheer. Enjoy live music and a DJ, festive bites at a variety of food stations, and drink stations hosted by local wineries and breweries.
Sleigh All Day Market (Nov 28 -29)
At the Sleigh All Day Christmas Market located at Vernon Recreation Centre and enjoy live music, food, and handmade goods take center stage. This market promises an array of local vendors, creating a warm and festive atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping.
4th Annual German Market at Gray Monk Winery (Nov 28)
Spend the afternoon Gray Monk Winery in Lake Country browsing more than 40 local vendors, discovering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and festive finds throughout the winery. Back by popular demand, Fritz the Baker returns with traditional German favourites, alongside plenty of holiday cheer.
Bring the family for Photos with Santa, explore the market at your own pace and make a day of it overlooking the Okanagan.
Artsolutely Holiday Market (Starting Nov 28 - Dec 24)
Located at the Vernon Community Arts Centre in Polson Park, Artsolutely hosts over 35 Okanagan artists showcasing 12,500 unique items from ceramics to fine art. Open daily from November 28 to December 24, this market offers a relaxed, tax-free shopping environment where new items arrive regularly, ensuring a fresh selection throughout the season.
Silver Star Annual Light Up (Dec 5)
Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 5th, when Silver Star’s Annual Light Up returns to kick off the winter and holiday season in spectacular style! This beloved event lights up the night with vibrant displays, a torchlight parade, and a thrilling fireworks show. Visitors can enjoy fire spinners, roaming entertainers, and explore a festive Christmas market filled with holiday treasures. The Silver Star Annual Light Up is a must-see celebration that brings the magic of the season to life against the stunning backdrop of Silver Star Mountain.
Shoparama Holiday Gift Sale (Dec 6 & 7)
Held at the Vernon Recreation Centre on December 6 and 7, Shoparama is a fun-filled holiday market featuring artisans, home-based businesses, prizes, and entertainment. With free admission (donations for the Salvation Army Foodbank appreciated), this event makes it easy to support local entrepreneurs and find unique holiday gifts.
From traditional holiday crafts to unique, artisan-made treasures, Vernon’s holiday markets offer something special for every shopper. Each market provides a different slice of the festive spirit, making it easy to find gifts with meaning and support local talent in the process. So bundle up, grab a warm drink, and explore the holiday cheer that Vernon has to offer – these local markets are waiting to make your holiday season unforgettable.
