GREEN ANTS MAKIN’ MAGIC
Ah, Christmas. It’s on our doorstep, mates. If you’re keen to get cracking on that gift list, boy, do we have a recommendation for you, with the return of the much-loved Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair.
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
WITH THE RISE of mass-produced goods – or in many cases, bads, that break too easily or don’t quite match the online photos – investing in genuine, handcrafted gifts has never been more appealing.
This month, the air-conditioned Territory Netball Stadium transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with over 150 stalls featuring carefully made pieces from local crafters and makers. From ceramics and textiles to paintings, jewellery, and clothing, the Green Ant Craft Fair has the goods, remaining fiercely committed to its local handmade ethos.
Organiser Hannah Swales reckons it’s the way to go this Christmas.
“I know budgets are tight, and handmade can cost more than mass-produced goods. But there’s something really special about giving a gift someone has thoughtfully created, especially when it also supports a small Territory business. Every purchase makes a difference to the person behind that stall,” she says.
For many, Christmas ‘tis a season for giving, so a sweet side effect of purchasing local is the more-thanyou-know support it gives to local artisans.
For many, Christmas ‘tis a season for giving, so a sweet side effect of purchasing local is the more-thanyou-know support it gives to local artisans.
In an effort to support young creators, those under the age of 18 receive half-price stall fees to help them have a go, share what they’ve made, and gain experience running their own little business.
A first this year, the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network brings a selection of artists, including new and emerging talent, to the two-day event. Swales says this is something she’s keen to support.
“There’s so much creativity here in the Territory, and I love giving people an opportunity to share their work, meet customers, and get their name out there. It can be a big step putting yourself and your creations out into the world, so being able to support that is really special to me.”
As well as the more than 150 stalls, food vendors Gracies Toasties, Tailwag Coffee, Wors & Worst, Co Hai Sai Gon, Flavours of Portugal, Katjas Popcorn, and NKD Fruits join the ranks to fill the bellies of hungry shoppers.
Head along to Green Ant, and revel in the air-conditioned atmosphere that is positively bursting with creativity and festive feels.
Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair
WHEN SAT 21 & SUN 22 NOV, 9AM-4PM
AT TERRITORY NETBALL STADIUM
COST $5 | $4 ONLINE | FREE CHILD
INFO greenantcraftfair.com
