Ayah Victoria McKhail –
The spirit of the season filled the air at this year’s Riverside Holiday Market. The quaint charm of a traditional holiday market was once again evoked as people sipped on complimentary cups of hot cocoa, indulged in sizzling snacks, and began to tackle their holiday shopping.
“Unique gifts are always coveted, and these baskets, handmade with sweetgrass and recycled plastic by women from a village in Senegal, are especially popular,” said Dryanke Fashions owner Marieme S., one of many vendors who revelled in the hustle and bustle of the day.
Held November 24 at Riverside Common Park, the event featured live entertainment, children’s activities and an opportunity to visit Santa Claus. Organized by the Riverside Business Improvement Area in collaboration with the Scadding Court Community Centre Entrepreneurship Programs, it coincided with the launch of the Queen East Winter Windows Showcase. A photo walk took in more than 45 decorated storefront windows.
Cheryl Clare and Barb Lewis enjoyed the sights and sounds. “It’s a great opportunity to check out what’s happening in the community,” Clare said. “What’s most significant is having an opportunity to gain a glimpse into the local art that’s being created, in addition to supporting aspiring local vendors,” added Lewis.
One vendor was Safna Sahileen, a designer. Her line of hand-embroidered fibre accessories is called “Hana & Hala,” named after her two daughters. “It was so nice to mix and mingle with members of the local community. I received an overwhelmingly positive response. A lot of people were especially drawn to the jewellery, but the hats were quite popular, too.”
Swifties were pleased to discover charm bracelets designed by Arta Anbari, 13, sold by her mother, Attiyeh Nili. “Following Taylor Swift’s sold-out shows in Toronto, these mementoes are going quick,” she said.
Natural handmade soaps by Angelee & Co. were also snapped up. “The cottage core aesthetic continues to garner widespread appeal, so a lot of people gravitated toward the gift packages, which provide a chance to try a variety of products,” explained Khaya M., a sales associate.
Visitors who had worked up an appetite headed over to Link Haus to devour gourmet sausages, along with a serving of kettle chips. “I’ve got a shop over on Donlands, so this was a great opportunity to give people a taste of what we offer,” said David Neiman, the owner.
“It’s sure been a fun-filled day,” chortled Santa Claus. “The best part was meeting all the children. The performance by Encore Dance Arts, which included excerpts from The Nutcracker Sweet, was also a major highlight.”
According to Jennifer Lay, executive director of the Riverside BIA, the event was a great success. “The children loved decorating their own cupcakes and participating in a variety of activities. It was also heartwarming to see them get their pictures taken with Santa Claus. And with a wide range of unique gift ideas, visitors had a chance to start their Christmas shopping.”
