Over a thousand locals and out of town visitors attended the Handmade in the 519 Brews, Brunch and ButterTarts event at the Paris Fairgrounds on Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24, 2024.
All Canadian Events, a Paris-based family-owned business, puts on the annual market every spring and features a variety of makers from all over southern Ontario.
The over 100 vendors in attendance were set up throughout the Special Events building and the Exhibition Centre, giving them a chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs while selling their wares throughout the weekend.
From mini pancakes to rich croissants, fudge and freshly brewed coffee, there were plenty of tasty goodies to purchase on site. Many showcased both classis recipes and unique variations, including gluten-free and keto friendly sweets for those with food sensitivities.
As well, visitors could pick up a host of handmade items like clay jewelry, artisan soaps, leather goods, dog accessories, books and more.
Outside, three food trucks were serving fan favourites like poutine and handmade sandwiches, while indoors, guests took advantage of the Easter themed photo set-up or signed up to win a prize package.
While several local shoppers stopped in to visit their favourite returning vendors, there were many out of town visitors who took a day trip to Paris to check out the event.
Megan Lockhart, Rebecca Cousins, Kendra McLellan and Krista Jeffrey travelled from St. Mary’s to attend the market for the first time and left with several shopping bags in hand.
“There’s just so many vendors and local businesses that are really selling a variety of different crafts and food, and it’s just been an awesome little market to visit,” said Lockhart.
The friends noted that it was a great chance to discover the local businesses from both the immediate area and those located in surrounding cities.
“Everyone was so kind and friendly, and it was honestly just nice to chat with them and support their small businesses,” added McLellan. “It’s also nice to see that there is a huge variety of sellers because sometimes when you go to craft shows, things tend to be very similar or they are just different versions of the same thing.”
Kimberly De Jong’s reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative.The funding allows her to report rural and agricultural stories from Blandford-Blenheim and Brant County. Reach her at kimberly.dejong@brantbeacon.ca.
