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Get the Buzz on the E.C. Global Market
after a two-year hiatus, big fair trade sale returns Nov. 12
Some days, it may feel like the world is on fire. Between conflict, natural disasters, and pandemics, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But there is a teeny tiny ray of sunshine coming our way soon. After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the Eau Claire Global Market is back, with many familiar favorite vendors returning, along with some fresh new sellers.
This year, the market will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 9am to 3pm at 310 Broadway St., Eau Claire, at First Congregational Church. Delicious hot rice bowls with an international flair will be available for purchase, along with baked goods and coffee.
The ECGM brings fairly traded, handcrafted products and food items from around the world, promoting sustainable livelihoods and community development. Vendors help world artisans sell their wares at a fair price. Items for sale will include clothing, textiles, baskets, jewelry, food, dishware, gifts, holiday ornaments, etc.
The sweetest vendor this year might just be Vetiver Solutions, a public benefit corporation that works with farmers in Haiti. They develop vetiver (a versatile plant fiber), honey, and beeswax into a variety of products, while investing in sustainable farming that improves soil health and reduces the effects of deforestation. They’ll be bringing Haitian honey and beeswax products to the ECGM.
Proceeds from the global market help finance development projects in about 30 developing nations. One of the most unique aspects of the Eau Claire Global Market is that the vendors have a personal connection to the products they sell. Many know the artisans and can tell you firsthand about their projects, which all support solutions to global problems, such as safe water access, human trafficking, education, and employment.
It is easy to feel powerless in the face of all the challenges in the world today. But the Eau Claire Global Market gives you an opportunity to do your holiday shopping or buy yourself a little something, all while helping people in need. It’s a small thing – a tiny butterfly effect – but like all generous actions, it will make a difference in people’s lives.
As one of the vendors, Fair Anita, reminds us, “We believe that each and every person has the power to create positive change in the world. Where you shop matters, and speaks volumes about the kind of world you want to see.”
Learn more about the upcoming sale and the vendors at facebook.com/eauclaireglobalmarket.
Other Fun Art-for-Funds Events
Craft markets or makers’ markets are always popular this time of year. In addition to the Eau Claire Global Market, the Chippewa Valley is hosting a few other events on Nov. 12 that allow you to shop while supporting local artisans and organizations. Check the Volume One Events Calendar for more information. Here are a few markets also happening:
Mallternative Vendor and Craft Fair, hosted by Chippewa Valley Montessori Charter School, 400 Cameron St., Eau Claire. Mallternative is an alternative shopping experience with local vendors and crafters supporting Chippewa Valley Montessori Charter School. Cost: Canned good or $1. Hours: 9am to 2 pm.
Christmas in the Northwoods, hosted by Northwoods Elementary School, 3600 Northwoods Lane, Eau Claire. This event offers a huge basket raffle, a bake sale, and more than 60 vendors. Admission proceeds benefit Northwoods Elementary School. Cost: $2 (children 12 and under are free). Hours: 9am to 3pm.
Eau Claire Makers’ Market, hosted by Forage, 403 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire. Forage presents a local artist and maker market in the heart of downtown Eau Claire, featuring a variety of vendors and fun goodies. ”Forage and The Eau Claire Makers Market recognize the importance of supporting The Arts in The Chippewa Valley,” says Lydia Park, events manager at Forage. “Forage is honored to provide a space for artisans to connect and network with the community, while also sharing and selling their work.” Cost: Free. Hours: Noon to 5pm.
