Cultivating Creativity

Celebrate the Season! Explore Local Artisan Markets Across the Quinte Region

By QAC Team

Celebrate the Season! Explore Local Artisan Markets Across the Quinte Region

This year,  join the holiday-season buzz and celebrate the incredible creativity and
community spirit that define this time of year. November and December are filled with
opportunities to shop local, connect with artists and makers, and experience the warmth
of the arts across the Quinte region.

One of the season’s most anticipated events is Mistletoe Magic, taking place
Saturday, November 15th at the Belleville Armouries — marking the show’s 16th
year and its first time in the downtown core. This cherished artisan market has
become a local holiday tradition, featuring more than 70 talented makers offering
original, handmade creations — from fine art and textiles to pottery, jewelry, and
seasonal décor.

“We’re so excited to bring the 16th annual Mistletoe Magic to the heart of the city.  The
show has always been about celebrating local makers and connecting our community
through creativity and craftsmanship.” says Barb Forgie, event organizer.

This year, Mistletoe Magic is proud to support HPE Food for Learning, helping ensure
that every student in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties has daily access to
nutritious food. The event also coincides with Downtown Belleville’s official kickoff to
the holiday season, creating the perfect opportunity to explore local shops, enjoy
festive lights, and embrace the joy of the season.

Additional Holiday Festivities Around the Region

Here are some festive markets and events happening in the broader Quinte region over
November and December. It’s a great season for exploring, shopping local, and getting
into the spirit!

Downtown Belleville

Festival of Lights Launch

Friday, November 14 at Jane Forrester Park

Lighting displays, live music, and Santa appearances to officially welcome the season.

Enchanted Holiday Market

November 14-16 Front Street

Outdoor market huts, crafts, carriage rides, and festive treats — a true holiday village
experience.

Tweed

Tweed Outdoor Holiday Festival

Friday, December 5, 5–9 p.m.

Vendors, hot chocolate, music, and a cozy small-town holiday atmosphere.

Brighton
6th Annual Holiday Market

November 22–23 at Timber House Resort

Local makers, food trucks, and support for the Brighton Food Bank.

Trenton

Quinte West Holiday Market

December 6–7 at Centennial Park

A winter wonderland with unique vendors, festive entertainment, and family activities.

Prince Edward County

Holly Jolly Holiday Market

Saturday, December 6 at the Belleville Armouries, 187 Pinnacle St.

Local artisans, festive music, and PEC-inspired holiday goods — perfect for gift hunting.

Belleville

Marshland Creations and Grand Trunk Market

Weekends, November 8–30

Over 100 varieties of preserves — jams, jellies, salsa, and pickles — plus handmade
crafts including up-cycled denim purses, candles, and silkscreen t-shirts.

Trenton

Griswold Christmas Craze: Lights, Laughter, Shopping and Cousin Eddie’s RV
Challenge!

Thursday, November 20, 3–8 p.m.

A fun, festive evening filled with lights, laughter, and local shopping with a quirky holiday
twist.

Batawa

14th Annual Batawa Lions Craft Fusion Showcase and Sale

Saturday, November 22, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Over 100 artisans and crafters, $2 entry, showcasing handmade gifts, décor, and festive
food items.

As we move into the holiday season, mark your calendars for Mistletoe Magic in
downtown Belleville and explore the many festive markets across the Quinte region.

For the Quinte Arts Council, it’s about community, craft, connection, and supporting
local makers and causes. We’re excited to celebrate the artisan community and look
forward to sharing in the spirit of the season with you all.

Here’s wishing you a joyful shopping experience, meaningful gifts, and a warm start to
the holidays!

— The Quinte Arts Council Team


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