Ballymaloe Craft Fair to showcase work from 150 exhibitors

THE annual Ballymaloe Craft Fair makes its return to East Cork this winter.

The Christmas market experience will showcase 150 exhibitors offering different shopping experiences and will run for two weekends, from November 17 to 19 and 24 to 26 at the Ballymaloe Farm.

The event will offer a rounded experience, with an array of hot food and drinks from local producers available.

There will also be a Lego workshop for children, who will be kept busy while grown-ups enjoy Christmas shopping, mulled wine and treats.

The Ballymaloe Craft Fair’s mission is to provide a platform for local artisans to showcase and sell their creations, champion Irish-made products, promote sustainability, and offer a safe and enjoyable family-friendly event for all attendees.

Thousands are expected to visit the Ballymaloe Farm and savour the unique talent of both new and returning producers who will be showcasing their talents for textiles, glassware, sculptures, art, woodwork, jewellery and leather goods.

Operations manager at Ballymaloe Grainstore, Bree Allen, said that the fair is a must for those who want to shop locally this Christmas.

“The sheer scale of products available and the breadth of talent among the makers is phenomenal and it’s wonderful to know that by doing your Christmas shopping here, you’re supporting your friends and neighbours.”

Laura Behan, general manager of Ballymaloe House Hotel said; “The Ballymaloe Craft Fair is one of the biggest events on our calendar. It’s wonderful to think of the amount of beautiful and sustainable products by Irish makers that are sold at the Craft Fair every year.”

The Ballymaloe Craft Fair provides free all-day parking, and a shuttle bus will run daily from Midleton train station, via Cloyne to Ballymaloe and then onto Ballycotton and back again.

Entry to the fair will be €8 per day with children under-12 free. There is also the option of a weekend pass for €16.