Q+A: What to know about London’s holiday bazaar season

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A fixture at many churches and community centres, holiday bazaars and markets are making their seasonal comeback in London in the lead-up to Christmas. Beatriz Baleeiro spoke to veteran organizer Ardath Finnbogason-Hill about the ins and outs of the sales and how to make the most of them.

THE BIG PICTURE

Dozens of holiday markets are scheduled in the London area, with plenty to choose from Saturday. Crafts, baked goods and unique artwork and knick-knacks are staples at many, which often double as fundraising events. The timing is no coincidence, with Christmas only a month and change away, said Finnbogason-Hill. She’s organized art events and markets for more than 20 years and is running Saturday’s Eclectic Christmas Market at First-St. Andrew’s United Church in downtown London.

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Q: Is there any difference between a holiday bazaar and a holiday market?

A: I think bazaars, over the decades, were very popular – giving the impression of many things being offered. Everybody has a way of framing the title, but they’re all much the same. Ours may vary a little bit because we have outside artists who are invited to come in and be vendors with their work, which we ask to be locally produced, locally sourced or handmade.

Q: Why do churches organize these seasonal markets?

A: Well, it’s that time of the year, right? This is when most people put themselves out there for community-oriented events. It’s a seasonal thing. It’s a holiday thing. . . . It’s a tradition for all churches to have functions at this time of year.

Q: What would a newcomer expect to find at these bazaars and markets?

A: There’s something for everybody, and we want to welcome everyone. They’ll expect to find a lot of good food, like many jam tables, preserves and baked goods. We’re a very accepting and welcoming community, so I hope people feel comfortable coming.

Q: How important is it for newcomers from different backgrounds to attend?

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A: We get newcomers every year, and we hope a wider demographic – like younger people, such as students – will come to the market, versus (just) the older members who are used to attending these markets. The market has been very diverse lately in a very good way. It’s a social time to meet such interesting people. Everyone is always willing to engage with each other.

Q: What makes a great holiday bazaar?

A: The sense of colour and excitement. . . . We hope the markets are places where people do Christmas shopping. What also makes it great is that there’s something for everybody, regardless of age or inclination.

Q: Can you talk about the price range in the markets?

A: The items are reasonably priced. Something to always consider is that because these items are produced by hand, they are of excellent quality. There will be affordable options and some higher-end art pieces, which are lovely to look at if you can’t afford them.

Q: Can you negotiate the price, like at garage sales, or is that a no-no?

A: It’s a big no-no. The price you see is the price you get. This situation (market or bazaar) is like going into a store. Everything is carefully priced, and consideration is put into the pricing. The other thing to realize is it’s the church’s main fundraiser for the projects it supports within and outside the church.

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Q: The pandemic must have taken a heavy toll on these markets?

A: We didn’t have a market during the height of the pandemic, and when we returned, including now, many people are still concerned about going into large crowds. But this year, more Christmas events are happening, like this weekend inside London but also outside. People make a day of it and want to see what’s out there.

Q: What’s your best tip to get the most out of one of these sales?

A: I’d say come early. Some markets close at noon and will only be open for a few hours. You can have a positive experience by just walking around and seeing stuff.

AMONG SATURDAY’S (NOV. 23) SALES

Eclectic Christmas Market: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., First-St. Andrew’s United Church, 350 Queens Ave., London. Donations of socks, mittens and scarves accepted for Ark Aid Mission.

All Under One Roof Christmas Bazaar: Held jointly by St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral and St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 472 Richmond St. (enter off Clarence Street door,) London.

Yuletide Fair: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Metropolitan United Church, 468 Wellington St., London.

All Queer Holiday Bazaar: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., 255 Horton St. E. (third floor), London, organized by Wortley Pride.

bbaleeiro@postmedia.com

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