The Forks is excited to be welcoming people back to the market and to encourage shopping locally with their annual Holiday Bazaar.

Not to be confused with "bizarre," the meaning of the word "bazaar" arises from the Persian word bāzār, meaning "market," which is exactly what the grand event is; a local market selling a variety of goods.

"This is something The Forks has been doing for a number of years, kind of to kickstart the holiday shopping season and encourage people to support local," says Jenna Khan, communications specialist for The Forks. "We want people to remember the amazing local shops and makers that exist inside The Forks market and spend some money with them this holiday season."

Even though the last two years have been quiet at The Forks, Khan says that many people still utilized the space that was offered, using it as a safe way to gather. They are now ready to welcome people back inside and have businesses open once again.

"What we're doing is creating a shopping experience that really highlights the retail shops and makers that exist within The Forks market. We have a number of amazing local artisans and local stores that are selling their beautiful items on a regular basis, and we just really want to remind people that they're here and remind people how important it is to support locals. That's really what the core of this event is but we've also partnered with Manitoba Music to create Manitoba Music at the Market, which has been happening throughout the course of November. We kicked it off last week and we're going to continue with that, so there's going to be live music in Room 201 on our second floor."

There will also be wreath-making in partnership with Freshcut Downtown, which includes registration beforehand, a family friendly zone for kids, music from DJ Mama Cutsworth in the EQ3 lounge, a holiday photo booth, floor shuffleboard and more.

The Holiday Bazaar will be taking place Thursday, November 17 at The Forks market from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Visitors can bring a tin for the bin as The Forks has partnered with Winnipeg Harvest. 

For more information, visit The Forks website.