The first real snowfall of the year also brought with it a chance to shop locally at the Nishmas Holiday Market, hosted by Atikameksheng Anishnabek and the Whippoorwill Cafe, Arts and Culture on Nov. 29.
It was a chance to gather, to take a look at the homemade wares of community members and to have a warm coffee and a snack, courtesy of the cafe, which is now open and run by three sisters: Pamela Naponse-Corbiere, Lisa-Marie Naponse and Paula Naponse.
More than 30 vendors were at the show, some from around the corner and others from as far as Garden River First Nation.
In addition to hand-beaded items like lanyards, medallions and earrings, there were also many different designs of dream-catchers, as well as medicine bags and Indigenous artwork. Additionally, handsewn buckskin mittens and moccasins were available for purchase, as well as blankets, ribbon skirts and holiday decorations with a ‘Nish’-twist.
The event’s entry fee was a fundraiser for the Atikameksheng’s elders’ trip to Banff. Hundreds came out over the course of the day, with plans for more markets in future, said a release from Atikameksheng, in the hopes of attracting visitors to their community, as well as offering a gathering space for their members.
“It reflects our commitment to economic growth, cultural celebration, and sustainable tourism development,” read the release.
For more information about upcoming markets, visit the Atikameksheng Facebook page, found here.
Jenny Lamothe is a reporter at Sudbury.com.