Market showcases Indigenous and Métis artists and crafters

LAC LA BICHE - The holiday season started early for those who took in the second annual Indigenous Christmas Market at the Lac La Biche Heritage Centre on Nov. 2.

The event featured a variety of crafts and products made by predominantly Indigenous and Métis artists and crafters from the Lac La Biche and Lakeland region. People browsing through tables could shop for clothing, including traditional wear such as ribbon skirts, Indigenous regalia, giftware, pottery, handcrafted Christmas items, homemade sweets, and more.

Payton Shukaliak, a member of Beaver Lake Cree Nation, organized the Indigenous Christmas Market. Shukaliak said the idea to launch an Indigenous-themed market came from going to other similar markets.

"My mindset is to try to create a space, like a safe space for Indigenous vendors, so that we can connect, build our own community . . . and work together," Shukaliak told Lakeland This Week. Now that the Christmas market has taken place for the past two years, it will most likely become an annual event.

The market also creates awareness and an opportunity to celebrate and showcase Indigenous artists and crafters.

"It's giving them an opportunity and a space that's dedicated to them," said Shukaliuk.

She will be helping to host another Indigenous themed market on Dec. 19, which will be held at the Beaver Lake Cree Nation community hall.