Last Saturday, hundreds of people from Virden and area decided NOT go Christmas shopping in Brandon.
Instead, about 800 attended the Splash of Christmas Craft & Trade Show at Tundra Oil & Gas Place. It’s an annual fundraiser for the Virden Splash Park.
The Sunrise Banquet Hall was humming with vendors excitedly talking up their wares to anyone who paused to admire them.
Some 53 crafters and home-based business owners filled the hall with colourful and creative gift ideas.
Popular themes competing for attention were knit and crocheted items, sparkly jewelry, and Christmas wreaths in styles ranging from restrained to full flounce.
Organizer Tracy Landels says it’s their third year holding the popular event at TOGP and she gives a lot of credit to the venue.
“The Sunrise Banquet Hall is a true gem for Virden…. Having the connected rink is also a bonus! Every year we see many of the hockey parents, fans, and players coming over to check out the sale.
“The local production (Mamma Mia this year) that’s held on the same weekend also brings out-of-town guests to our show before they attend the performance at The Aud.”
Landels says this year’s sale yielded $4,000 for the Splash Park and lots of satisfied crafters and vendors, which bodes well for the fourth annual show next year.
“We’re already one-third booked for Nov. 23, 2019!”
