7 Craft Markets and Boutique Pop-Ups to Shop in Vancouver This Spring

Shop, eat and support local this season.

Summer is coming up fast, and I’m here to offer you a friendly reminder: there’s a very good chance that someone you know is getting married, has a birthday or is graduating between now and September (and maybe all of the above!).

And I can’t forget to mention that Mother’s Day and Father’s Day will be here before you know it. Not that I’m to cause you unnecessary gift-giving anxiety, though—there’s still lots of time for most of these things. (I can’t guarantee birthdays. That’s on you.)

Why not shop local and check out one of these seven unique shopping experiences?

Make It! Vancouver

If you love craft markets, you won’t want to miss one of the most popular ones in Canada. Expect to find a variety of items like jewellery (such as hammered rings from East Vancouver’s Adornation), art (whimsical nature painting prints by Anja Jane) and home décor (cool industrial lighting by East Van Light) from more than 200 “makies.” If your stomach starts growling mid-shop, don’t worry: there will be food trucks and a beer garden. All proceeds from a silent auction will benefit the Union Gospel Mission.

Where: PNE Forum
When: Friday, April 19 – Sunday, April 21
Cost: $6 at the door or $3 in advance online
More info: makeitshow.ca/vancouver

Ciel Shoppe Pop-Up

Is an intimate, boutique shopping experience more up your alley? Then check out Ciel Shoppe. This lifestyle pop-up will promote six emerging local brands, and you’ll also have the chance to meet and learn about the owners and their companies. Take a peek at Harly Jae’s vintage-inspired clothing line and Sonya Lee‘s handmade leather purses, among others.

Where: Saturday, April 20 – Sunday, April 21
When: Little Mountain Shop
Cost: Admission is free
More info: facebook.com/events/382727729227031

Eastside Flea

No matter your level of hipster-ness, you’ll be able to find something you like at Eastside Flea. This modern-day flea market is a Vancouver classic, hosting 50 local vendors as well as food trucks and local musicians. At the bi-weekly market, you can find antiques, handmade ceramics, woven bags, soaps and basically everything in between. They’ve recently moved to a bigger space on Malkin Avenue that can only be described as industrial chic (think Edison string lights and a corrugated metal bar).

When: Saturday, April 20 – Sunday, April 21; Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 5; and Saturday, May 18 – Sunday, May 19
Where: 550 Malkin Ave.
Cost: $3 for single-day entry, $5 for all-weekend pass
More info: eastsideflea.com

Refresh Market

Since 2011, Refresh has been bringing its A-game when it comes to curating locally designed goods for its seasonal markets. At its upcoming spring edition, nearly 100 vendors will be selling all sorts of pretty things, including handmade ceramics, water kefir and handwoven macramé. Find a unique gift for a loved one or treat yourself to something new—all while supporting a small local business.

When: Friday, April 26 – Saturday, April 27
Where: West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish
Cost: $5 at the door or $3 in advance online
More info: refreshmarket.ca

Portobello West

Inspired by artisan markets in Europe, Portobello West was founded in 2006. Now operating as a not-for-profit society, the upcoming spring market will feature more than 40 makers selling delicious treats, conscious fashion finds and charming décor—and it’s all locally produced. Feeling especially keen? The first 25 people in line can snag a free swag bag full of goods from vendors. There will also be tunes and tasty treats.

When: Saturday, April 27
Where: Roundhouse Community Centre
Cost: $5 at the door or $2 in advance online
More info: portobellowest.com

Fall For Local

In case you needed another excuse to shop local and support small Vancouver businesses, check out Fall For Local. Boasting over 90 vendors this season, the event features items like vegan coconut-milk mousse by Cococreme, beachware by Chic Towels and hemp-infused beauty products by Deew. You can also take part in a complimentary DIY workshop on-site. Arrive early to get your hands on a free canvas tote bag filled with goodies.

When: Saturday, April 27 – Sunday, April 28
Where: The Pipe Shop, North Vancouver
Cost: $5 at the door or $3 in advance online
More info: fallforlocal.com

Got Craft?

Got Craft’s annual spring market is coming up, and the event will be celebrating its 25thiteration. The organizers curate and showcase a variety of products from talented local designers, including subtle geometric jewellery by LanaBetty and conscious apparel by Novel Supply Co. A major bonus: there’s plenty of free street parking around the venue.

When: Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 5
Where: Maritime Labour Centre
Cost: $5 at the door or $3 in advance online
More info: gotcraft.com