Four Cork craft fairs to add to your calendar now for unique Christmas gift ideas

Stand out with some considered gifts this festive season by visiting these craft fairs

Here are some craft fairs to consider this Christmas across Cork

We’re all feeling a financial pinch this year, and with Christmas on the horizon, you may be hoping to find some pocket-friendly presents for your loved ones.

Places like Penneys may tempt you, but when your teenage niece opens yet another pair of identical PJs and slippers from the chain store, you could end up kicking yourself.

Luckily, quality craft items are available for all budgets, and ahead of the festive season, some lovely craft fairs will be taking place across Cork this year.

Here are four fairs to consider for some unique pieces under the tree.

Craft + Design Fair, Glucksman Gallery 

The Glucksman Craft + Design Fair. Picture: Clare Keogh.

Dates: November 6-8 

Entry: €8 or €5 with a flyer 

Filled with local makers, the annual Craft + Design Fair is the perfect spot to find sustainable and locally made gifts for all budgets.

Some of the makers confirmed this year include Mink, Rothlú, Tracey Lilley Ceramics, Wild Atlantic Wicks, and Coppiceworks.

• Friday 1pm-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm 

Cork Printmakers, Wandesford Quay

Cork Printmakers Christmas print fair

Dates: November 20-22 

Entry: Free 

The printmaking studios will be transformed into a pop-up art fair for three days, with live print demos, raffles, and fine art print stalls with works by some of the 130 artist members.

From screenprints, etchings, woodcuts and more, print is a very affordable and original gift for Christmas, and visitors are sure to find something to suit their budget while supporting local artists and the activities of Cork Printmakers.  On Friday evening, they are open until 7pm for an after-work festive reception.

• Friday 1pm–7pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am–5pm 

Ballymaloe Craft Fair, Grainstore at Ballymaloe 

Shoppers enjoying the festive atmosphere at the Ballymaloe Craft Fair. Picture: Joleen Cronin.

Dates: November 20-22 and November 27-29 

Entry: €8 on Fridays and €10 on Saturdays and Sundays, with free admission for children under 14. A three-day weekend ticket is also available to purchase at €21.

The Grainstore at Ballymaloe will be transformed into Ireland’s largest craft fair for two weekends of Irish craft, design, and food.

With more than 200 exhibitors across all dates, the line-up is refreshed between weekends. From ceramics, jewellery, art, and fashion to homeware, skincare, and seasonal decorations, every stall celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of Irish makers.

Visitors can enjoy festive music, mulled wine, and a line-up of interesting and exciting food trucks.

• Friday 4pm–9.30pm, Saturday 9.30am–8pm, and Sunday 9.30am–5pm 

The Dog Days Market, St Peters 

A view over The Dog Days Market's 2025 fair. Picture: Denise O'Donoghue

Dates: December 5-6 

Entry: Free 

Fashion, ceramics, prints, jewellery, homewares, and more can be expected at this year’s Dog Days Market, a dog-friendly craft fair on North Main Street.

Co-founded by the creative minds behind Sketchy Lady illustrations and Allsún Jewellery, the market runs on two weeks a year — summer and winter — with vendors and times for the festive market due to be announced soon.