If you’re looking for that ideal Christmas present that’s both artistic and original, you should definitely stop by at the Royal Dublin Society’s annual craft fair, where around 450 craftspeople, artists and designers from all over the country gather up to display their wares such us lighting, pottery, glass, rugs, knitwear, and jewellery.
The annual National Crafts & Design Fair in early December caters for all types of shoppers and is the chief commercial showcase for Irish craftwork. All the best craftspeople congregate at this public fair to display and sell their finest goods. The Fair originated some twenty five years ago as a small group of craft workers came together to show their creations. The spectrum of products is varied and unique, showcasing a wealth of talent and industry, and the finest examples of contemporary craft. Since Christmastime is traditionally associated with abundant food consumption, the Food Emporium at the National Crafts & Design Fair is brimming with the season’s best, whetting anyone’s appetite, with food tasting, demonstrations and talks.
Processed by a vetting committee, the top class standards of the vast array of goods have become synonymous with the National Crafts & Design Fair. Each company represented at the Fair is an important regional economic spin-off of the locality that it hails from, many rural in origin. This sustains the local craft industry, many of whom work from their homes, thereby contributing to the quality of life in many small towns and villages. The National Crafts & Design Fair takes place in the Main Hall Complex in Ballsbridge. Visitors will need to pay an admission fee but can claim a free re-admission pass if they wish to return.
