Stratford Makers Market hosting Christmas Market Nov. 22 and 23

The Stratford Makers Market team consists of Sara, Brittany, Nicole, Abby and Rosalie.

Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, Spiderman, oh my! So much to see at this year’s Christmas Market hosted by the lovely ladies at the Stratford Makers Market.

Consisting of five ladies, the Stratford Makers Market strives hard to put on a great market each year.

“We take a lot of time to really go through the 275 applications,” said Sara Clarke, co-organizer of the Stratford Makers Market. “We look at every application, their photos, and curate a great selection of vendors.”

From pottery to pastry and food to bath and body, jewellery and candles, there are over 120 craft vendors to browse and shop.

“This is our third year,” said Clarke. “The reason why we moved to the Rotary (complex) is because it was the biggest (space) we could get. With 120 vendors coming, we needed the extra space. We wanted to put on a great event for the people.”

Located at 353 McCarthy Rd., the Stratford Rotary Complex will be busy with the Christmas Market running Friday Nov. 22 from 4-9 p.m. and Saturday Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Saturday, come get a photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Try and find the Grinch running around the market. Have an animal balloon tied while browsing the array of Christmas items. Get a photo taken with Cinderella and the amazing Spiderman from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. Scott Saunders’ Rollin Roaster will be serving food, as well.

“Last year, we raised $18,000 for the Stratford Hospice,” said Clarke. “(Our) goal is to raise $10,000 for the Emily Murphy Centre (this year).

“It's a great event because it allows a lot of local, small businesses to showcase their hard work, passion and creativity. It’s an event that gives back to the community, supporting local businesses and local places like the Emily Murphy Centre and the Stratford Hospice.”

The Christmas Market is a cash-donation event. Donations are accepted at the door and at the Photo Booth with Santa. There is an ATM on site and most vendors accept debit and credit.

See you there!