DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market returns Nov. 8 and 9 | Community

The long-running DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market continues its over 40-year history on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dollard-des-Ormeaux Civic Centre with free admission, parking and coat check.  Presented by the Dollard Centre for the Arts (DCA), this annual marketplace features both new and popular returning vendors and includes crafts market, a fine arts space, food and beverages as well as a rooftop bar. And that’s just for starters.

Free admission, parking and coat check, and this year, DDO residents can enjoy an exclusive shopping experience on Fri. Nov. 7 from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Comedian James Mancini serving as MC throughout the weekend will create a fun atmosphere and announce hourly raffle winners.

The DDO Fine Arts and Crafts Holiday Market features works from over 80 multi-generational, diverse, artists and artisans spread across two floors. Shopping is spread over 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.

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.

“We’ve worked hard to create a space that feels warm and welcoming; one that captures the spirit of the season and celebrates the creativity and dedication of our artisan community,” stated Megan Bradley, special events coordinator at DCA.  “It’s about connection, celebration, and yes — a little bit of magic. At its heart, the Market is a reminder of what this time of year is all about: giving, community and gratitude. We’re deeply thankful for every person who walks through our doors and chooses to support local.”

The DDO Civic Centre is located at 12001, boul. De Salaberry, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Entrance #5. Wheelchair accessible; public transportation nearby

— centreartsdollard.com/holiday-market/

— Dollard Centre for the Arts

— AB