INNISFAIL – The Innisfail Christmas Farmers' Market helped shoppers with an early start to their holiday shopping.
The two-day event took place Nov. 17 and 18 at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion.
“It's a little busier today (Saturday) than it was yesterday,” said Christine Mountain, manager of the Innisfail Farmers' Market. “It's great to see all these people.”
A total of 49 vendors from across Central Alberta filled the auditorium hall at the legion.
“That's all we can handle in here. We're full,” she said, noting the different varieties of vendors participating in the market from places such as Red Deer, Eckville, Olds, Didsbury, Innisfail and Rocky Mountain House.
Vendors included those from the summer farmers market, as well as those participating just for the Christmas market.
A display of unique items was available at the market, including artwork and pottery, handmade knitted clothing, baked goods, homemade crafts, Christmas and home décor, and specialty foods and beverages.
“A lot of items make great stocking stuffers,” said Mountain. “Most of them you can't buy in a store because they're all homemade.
“It's early enough (before Christmas) that people can get their shopping done,” she added.
Mountain, who has been manager of the market for the past five years, said the Christmas Farmers' Market has been a part of the Innisfail community for more than 30 years.
“We couldn't do it without the community support,” she said, pointing out the important role local families, individuals and members of the public play in both the summer and Christmas farmers' markets.
“It warms your heart when people come out to the Christmas Farmers' Market.”
Margaret Wilkins from Red Deer has been attending the annual Christmas Farmers' Market for the past couple of years.
She was at the market Saturday with family members.
“We also came last year. I like the handmade crafts and the Dutch foods,” said Wilkins. “Especially the waffle cookies and the Dutch apple pie.”
Santa Claus made a short visit to the Christmas Farmers' Market on Saturday and the ladies auxiliary from the legion fed hungry patrons beef on a bun during the event.
