December brings lots of holiday events and markets to Kamloops (Tk’emlúps), offering plenty of opportunities to support local organizations, artists and businesses.
With over five holiday events and markets happening throughout the month, including the Krampus Holiday Parade and Market, Misfit Night Market and others, this list will help you get in the holiday spirit and find something for everyone on your list.
Who-Ville Kamloops (Tk’emlúps)
Who-Ville Kamloops is a collaboration with Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc happening at the Powwow Arbour Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The event is open to all the public and will feature the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who and Max the Dog. In support of literacy in Kamloops, new or gently-used children’s book donations or cash donations are encouraged.
This event is hosted with the support of Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc, Cooper Equipment Rentals, St. John Ambulance and others.
Holiday Artisan Market
Monte Creek Winery is hosting the third annual Holiday Artisan market at their Greenhouse with more than 30 vendors. On Saturday, Dec. 7 the market will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The winery is partnering with the local Kamloops Food Bank to raise money and items for the holidays. Wine tastings are usually $10 per person but for the market they are encouraging attendees to to bring shelf-stable food items, including baby food, beans, canned fruit, pasta, canned vegetables, peanut butter, rice, soup and more for a complimentary wine tasting experience.
Morgan Yeomans, the Marketing Specialist for Monte Creek Winery tells The Wren the winery tries to partner with other local businesses or organizations throughout the year to give back to the community. For the market they picked an initiative that is close to their hearts.
The items featured by the vendors include fresh baked goods, glasswork, jewelry, jams and spreads, art, candles, wood creations and more. Some of the businesses featured are Herbal Hills Family Farm, Jen’s Woodwork Creations, Not Your Mama’s Bakery and Sol Serendipity.
Krampus Holiday Parade and Market
Attend the very first Krampus Holiday parade and market in Kamloops at Riverside Park Saturday, Dec. 7.
Inspired by the German legend Krampus, the half goat and half demon companion of St. Nicholas, the parade is an opportunity to dress up and interact with others. Traditionally Krampus is responsible for finding naughty children and punishing them. For the parade some folks will be dressed as Krampus, others will be Pertchen women who bring the light and offer treats to good children and St. Nicholas will be present too.
Organizers Julie Harland and Kristina Erickson were inspired by Krampus runs in Germany and booked the event with the city of Kamloops. Even if you are not registered to be in the parade, Harland says everyone is welcome to dress up and participate.
This event is free and open for everyone to attend. While some parents may be worried about the reaction of their children to Krampus, Harland tells The Wren that in most events she’s attended children are super curious to see the masks.
Traditionally, if children are worried about interacting with Krampus they can bring an apple, orange or treat and Krampus will share with them, Harland says.
Those interested in participating in the parade will gather at 3 p.m. on the band stand in Riverside Park, and the parade starts at 4 p.m. The end point of the parade will be at the Kia Lounge at the Sandman Centre, where attendees can browse the holiday market featuring 20 vendors and a refreshment station offering hot chocolate and baked goods by Harvest Moon Bakery until 8 p.m.
Adults can attend the afterparty called Krampuscht at Valhalla Smoke House where there will be fire spinners, interactive booths, music by Gregorious Band and performances by Kamloops Burlesque. Tickets for the afterparty are $30. For more information contact Kamloops Krampus at info@kamloopskrampus.ca
Valley Markets
The Winter Valley markets are hosted at Sahali Mall on various dates around December and feature local home-based businesses, artisans and bakers.
The upcoming dates of the markets are Saturday, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21 starting at 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. where folks attending can expect one-of-a-kind items to give in the holiday season.
Misfit Night Market
Established in late 2019, this is Haus of Misfit’s third holiday market Friday, Dec. 13 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., featuring an alternative vendor experience. The organizers seek to find artisans, crafters and businesses who do not fit on a standard craft market.
Jess Santos is one of the organizers and tells The Wren the market is for geeks, gays, theys, punks and pagans. It features 39 vendors that will be divided in two rooms of the Kelson Hall Centre for Arts & Education.
Some of the vendors are Wild Witch Craft Co, Chapel of Chains, B’s Crystal Corner, Chained in the ‘Loops, Huesera Design among others. Attendance is free for all ages, and parental discretion is advised. The event is organized and hosted by Haus of Misfit, an artisan gift shop on the North Shore open throughout the year.
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