The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to kick it off than by supporting local artisans at the Teulon’s Winterfest Craft Sale.
The annual event showcases a delightful array of handmade treasures crafted talented Manitoban vendors on Nov. 22 and 23.
With 50 booths set up at the in the Rockwood Centennial Hall you’re bound to discover unique gifts that will bring joy to everyone on your list. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect present or simply looking to soak up some festive spirit, this weekend promises a warm community atmosphere brimming with creativity and holiday cheer.
For over 25 years, local artisans have come together to sell their products at the Winterfest Craft Sale. Darci Loehmer has been organizing the sale for over a decade and is looking forward to hosting another successful event.
“We are a juried event with all handmade items, so we do not have any direct businesses. It is so special that we are still an all-handmade craft sale,” said Loehmer.
Over 90 vendors from across the province applied for one of the 50 tables at the Winterfest Craft Sale. Loehmer selected each vendor to ensure that patrons have a unique shopping experience. “We never know who is applying, so we try to have a good mix of people. Some apply who we have seen for many, many years, and there are some new ones who we have never seen before.”
Seventy percent of Winterfest vendors are local to the Teulon area, and the remaining artisans are from other Manitoba communities, including Petersfield, Gimli and Winnipeg.
“It is a really great selection of makers this year. It is really exciting to see what they will bring,” added Loehmer.
One Teulon business owner will be selling her products at Winterfest. Lisa Barnes will be set up with her Forest Mama products, a small business that sells all-natural body products. You can find magnesium sprays, body butters, bath soaks, herbal tinctures and more at Barnes’ table. “I also have elderberry and natural cough syrups; those are really good for cold and flus.”
Forest Mama was created in 2021 to stem from her family’s admiration for using natural products.
“I decided to put my passion into helping out people with their different ailments that they have,” said Barnes.
Ninety-five percent of Forest Mama’s products are forged locally in Manitoba by Barnes herself. The remaining ingredients come organically from farms across Canada.
“This year my elderberries are from B.C. because I want to make sure my ingredients are organic to Canada.”
Everyone can benefit from Forest Mama’s natural remedies and body products.
“I have something for everybody,” she exclaimed.
Whether you are a busy Mom with kids or someone looking to bring more natural products into your life, Forest Mama has a product for you.
“I am really excited to be a part of Winterfest,” added Barnes. Make sure you swing by Forest Mama’s table when you visit the Teulon Hall.
Loehmer also noted that several fan-favourite vendors are slated to return to Winterfest.
Madeline’s Closet is also back with two tables of baking for both days. Unfortunately last year they only had one table and sold out quickly.
Another returning favourite to Winterfest this year is Santa photos taken by Sweet & Wild Photography. For $10, you and your family can have your picture taken with Santa Claus, while the little ones share their wish list with him.
In addition to satisfying your holiday shopping needs, there will also be a canteen running throughout the two days. From Farmhouse to Yours Café will be bringing their freshly baked goods and tasty lunch options for you to indulge in when you get hungry from your shopping. A portion of canteen sales will be donated to the Teulon Christmas Cheer Board, an organization Loehmer enjoys supporting for the holiday season.
“We have always supported lots of community groups,” said Loehmer. “Last year they (Teulon Cheer Board) helped 75 families and we are really happy to help out with their cause.”
In addition to canteen sales, Winterfest will donate a portion of its admission fees and hold a 50/50 draw in support of the Teulon Christmas Cheer Board.
Every vendor attending the Winterfest Craft Sale will be open for business for both days, and Loehmer is hoping for over 1,500 shoppers to attend.
“It is everyone’s talent coming together over two days, and that is what makes it special.”
A complete list of vendors attending the Winterfest Craft Sale is posted online at www.winterfestcraftsale.net.
Doors open at the Rockwood Centennial Hall on Nov. 22 from 2 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 23. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
