Practical Guide: How to Make the Most of Your Craft Market Shopping Experience

Craft markets offer a unique opportunity to discover handmade products, meet passionate makers, and support small businesses from the local community. Planning your visit in advance is key to enhancing your shopping experience and to making intentional purchases.

Here are 9 tips to enhance your experience during your next visit to a craft fair.

1. Do Your Research

Many artisan markets post a list of exhibitors online in advance. Take the time to check it out and spot your favorite artisans or discover new creators that spark your curiosity. Note their booth number or location on the floorplan (if one is available) so you don't miss them. If you already have a favorite, like a jewelry designer you admire, this is the perfect opportunity to complete your collection or stock up on gifts. Some craft shows even offer a map of the event, showing each booth's location to help you navigate the venue.

2. Check the Event Program

Some markets organize special activities, such as fashion shows, musical performances, or talks. For example, the One of a Kind Show in Toronto features runway shows highlighting the creations of participating designers. The Salon des métiers d'art in Montreal, for instance, once offered a jazz music performance to enrich visitors’ shopping experience. Check to see if the market you are planning to visit has an event schedule and make note of the activities you don’t want to miss.

3. Make a List of Your Needs

Before heading to the market, take the time to identify the products you really need. For instance, if you're looking for a kitchen knife, a living room decoration, a birthday gift, or a hostess gift, write it down so you won’t forget. Maybe you need to refresh your underwear wardrobe or buy a new top for work. This will help you focus on thoughtful and sustainable purchases, rather than turning to mass-produced items in big-box stores. By buying handmade items that meet your needs, you add a unique touch to your daily life while supporting the work of local designers.

4. Keep an Open Mind

While your list can be helpful, allow yourself to be surprised by unexpected discoveries and new temptations. Markets are full of original creations, perfect for gifts, decor, or even ideas you hadn't thought of. Be curious and explore each booth to find hidden treasures. Even if you don't immediately need the products or buy them at this show, it may be useful for you to remember this company for future needs or gifts.

5. Choose the Right Time to Visit

Foot traffic varies depending on the days and times. If you prefer to shop in a calm environment, avoid visiting the market at peak times. Generally, multi-day events are less crowded during the day, especially on weekdays when most people are working. Evenings, around dinner time, can also be quieter, as some visitors leave for dinner and return later. For craft fairs that are only held over the weekend, some open their doors on Friday afternoons to allow for a more relaxed shopping atmosphere. Visiting a craft show during quieter times allows you to take your time exploring products on display and engaging with makers without feeling rushed by the crowd.

That said, if you enjoy the dynamic and vibrant atmosphere of a bustling market, weekend afternoons and busier weekdays can be a great choice. Visiting at peak periods allows you to feel the energy of the place and meet other visitors who are as passionate as you are about shopping local.

6. Plan Your Visit

Make sure to plan your visit so you can make the most of your experience. Write down the event's dates and times, as well as any special activities that interest you. Make a note of the parking options and inquire about accessibility, if needed. Don’t forget your water bottle and a reusable bag for your treasures. If you plan on buying a lot, you might even consider bringing a small shopping cart on wheels to shop comfortably without being weighed down by heavy bags. This will also save you from having to make a trip to the car before you’ve finished your shopping.

7. Save Heavy Purchases for the End

Here's a friendly tip: save food purchases (or any heavy items) for the end of your visit. Market visits can easily last several hours, as there’s so much to explore! Buying heavy items early on is a mistake many visitors have confessed making. Make a note of what you want to buy (maybe even write down the booth number) and return for it at the end (unless you have a shopping cart on wheels).

One of my favorite strategies is to make a first pass around the market to see what’s available, then do a second round when you're ready to buy. There are often more beautiful things than we can afford to bring home! This way, you ensure you're consuming consciously.

8. Buy Your Ticket

Some events have free entry, while others charge an entry fee. If you need to buy a ticket, you can often do so in advance online through the event's website. While you can usually purchase tickets on-site, buying them ahead of time will save you from standing in an extra line once you're there.

9. Share the Event on Social Media!

Sharing the event page on your social media is a wonderful and free way to support craft markets and local creators. Some markets organize raffles or giveaways on social media for their followers - you can win a prize by sharing your market finds or favorites! Spreading the word lets your friends and followers know when the next event will take place. Plus, it can create a fun opportunity to join in on the sense of community and discover local products together.

Visiting a craft market can be an incredibly enriching experience. By taking a few minutes to make a list of your needs, staying curious about discovering new products or makers, checking the event schedule, and choosing the right time for your visit, you’ll make your visit a fulfilling experience. Whether you're searching for specific products or you’re simply in the mood for tempting new finds, craft fairs are the perfect opportunity to meet passionate designers and buy unique creations you can’t find from big-box retailers.

So, take the time to prepare your visit and discover swoon-worthy handmade treasures while supporting local businesses.

I’d love to know: What are your tips for making the most of craft markets? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!

P.S.: To learn more about what I particularly love about craft shows, check out my post "Five Things I Love About Craft Markets."

P.P.S: To know where Clothes & Roads will be exhibiting next, check out the events page and subscribe to the newsletter for updates!