On Saturday and Sunday Nov 26th and 27th the Bella Coola Valley Arts Council sponsored the annual Bella Coola Arts and Crafts Fair at Lobelco Hall. If you listen to the radio or look at local newspapers it quickly becomes obvious that many communities small and large across the province have some sort of Christmas craft fair around this time of year.
It is an opportunity for members of the community to buy some hand made gifts for friends and family, or simply to pick up some wonderful baking. On the other side of the table it is a chance for crafters of all kinds to show and sell their wares. In the weeks leading up to a craft fair those hardcore crafters are busy producing socks, sweaters, toques, dolls, quilts, decorations, woodwork items, soaps, herbal products, and whatever else a creative imagination can think up.
This year we had a great turn out from the community at the arts and crafts fair with over 400 paid admissions and 31 vendors. The hall was packed. The lasagna supper quickly sold out with volunteers serving over 90 meals. Thanks to Liz Endicott, Mary and Monica Tutt and all those who helped cook and serve. There were also numerous volunteers helping with taking admissions at the door, setting up the hall for the fair, organizing tables and generally making it all happen.
Many of our vendors have had tables at previous craft fairs, but we were pleased to see some new participants. Scott Carrier displayed his photographic talents as well as a high-end printer for producing beautiful prints. Candice Hammer obviously has lots of crafter genes in her and we look forward to seeing her work at future fairs. Niki and Sally Watts put together a lovely table of artistically created items, and they were awarded the first prize for most attractive and creative table.
For all those vendors who return year after year we thank you for your efforts and support. Helga once again had her stained glass light and hangings creatively displayed and also won a prize for her display.I particularly would like to mention the hospital auxiliary table which each year faithfully organizes a beautiful display with a wide range of crafts and goodies for sale.
All the profits go to the hospital auxiliary and they generally have one of the highest revenue tables. The other table I want to mention is the CC4Africa table which raises funds for an organization providing support and education for children in Burundi / Rwanda regions. They too go to a great deal of effort to make and sell all sorts of home made foods and snacks and other craft items.
Thanks to all who came out to support this event. Above all I think those who were there enjoyed themselves. This was a coming together of the community. See you next year.