I.A.M., an Indigenous arts collective representing more than seventy First Nations, Metis and Inuit artists, will be organizing four A Very Indigenous Holiday Markets in Edmonton and Smoky Lake where you can purchase authentic local Indigenous arts and crafts.
I A M – Indigenous Artist Market Collective
Sponsored by Tourism Alberta, the City of Edmonton and the Edmonton Arts Council, I.A.M. collective will be organizing their biggest markets yet featuring some of the most talented and exciting Indigenous artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
In 2022, there will be four markets – 3 dedicated markets and one market as part of the Edmonton
Downtown Farmers Market.
The inaugural market on December 3rd & 4th will be at the Métis Crossing Cultural Gathering Center which is located 1.5 hours northeast of Edmonton and 10 minutes South of Smoky Lake on the Victoria Trail. This market will feature free horse-drawn sleigh rides, outdoor skating, and tobogganing (weather dependent) in addition to crafts for sale by amazing vendors and live entertainment.
The next weekend will see A Very Indigenous Holiday Market popping up at Prince of Wales
Armouries in Edmonton. There will be 75+ indigenous vendors/artists occupying of the historic building, entertainment lounge, 2 Indigenous cafes and live entertainment by Indigenous artists during the December 10th and 11th market.
The biggest of all four markets will take place at St. Basils Cultural Centre from December 16th to 18th. Shoppers can enjoy an indigenous fashion showcase, a drag show by Indigi-Hauz, Jigging and Pow Wow shows and non-stop entertainment on the stage.
The final market will be on December 23rd at Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market. 30+ vendors will be onsite, and performances all day, a silent auction, a kid’s craft station and free prize draws.
Artists appearing for live shows during the market days include Colton Bear, Connie LeGrande, Rellik & Signal from Earth, Donita Large & Band, Amanda Gedron, Tootoosis Crew, Toosick Zach Willier Bobbi Jo Starr, Metis Child & Family Jiggers, Demaris, Walker Shonan Awasis, Lakota Tootoosis, Trent Agecoutay, Mary Stinchcombe, Ashley Ghostkeeper and DJ Kookum.
Admission is free to all markets.