LOCAL craft designer-makers and artists are now being invited to submit their applications to be part of this year’s Guildhall Craft Fair.
Celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary, this annual event showcases a wide range of bespoke craft items created by craft designer-makers and artists throughout Ireland.
The fair takes place in the historical Guildhall in Derry’s city centre and is renowned for attracting a large number of visitors looking for that special gift or purchase for Christmas.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor John Boyle, said the Fair, which is organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council, offered the perfect platform for talented local makers to display their work.
“The Guildhall Craft Fair always attracts an amazing crowd due to the calibre of the work on display.
“It has become synonymous with some of the very best designers and artists and features a wide array of unique and creative gift items for anyone looking for that something special.
“I would encourage any emerging or established local designers to consider contributing to this fantastic showcase event.”
The Fair is now well established throughout the craft industry and has become a calendar highlight within the sector due to the high standard of goods for sale resulting from its strict selection process.
It’s the event of choice for many makers and artists as no imported or bought in work is allowed at the Fair, with all of the goods on display being handmade in Ireland.
Applications are also invited from artisan food producers as the event also features a small food fair in the Whittaker Suite on the ground floor of the Guildhall.
Although there are only a limited number of stands available for this element, it has proved to be a popular feature with shoppers and traders alike.
Event organiser with Council, Helena Hasson, said: “This event is so special and is loved by people across the region who travel here every year to take in the wonderful spectacle of all these beautiful, handmade goods, meet old friends and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“We are very fortunate to have so many first class artists and crafters wanting to be part of it.
“They have created the solid reputation that this event enjoys and every year brings both new and regular ranges that ensure people return year on year to find that special purchase.”
The Guildhall Craft Fair will run from the evening of Friday 22nd until Sunday 24th November when Council will also host its Christmas Lights Switch On.
This will be the first time that the switch on has been held on a Sunday, and Council are expecting in excess of 8,000 people to enjoy an afternoon of festive fun and music in the Guildhall Square running from 2pm until 6pm that day.
For further information regarding the application process and guidelines please log onto Council’s website www.derrystrabane.com/craftfair to download the relevant forms.
The closing date for all applications to be submitted is Friday 17th May at 4pm
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