why it is so important to buy from local artisans
Out of Hand is proud to be a part of vibrant downtown Victoria. Each year we draw thousands of holiday shoppers to the downtown core to enjoy the beautiful glittering streets that accompany the holiday season. 60% of the people who attend the fair go on to shop or dine in downtown Victoria! We are also delighted to be able to give back, this year more than ever before. For our Friday night event, Fashion in Action, we are partnering with Cool Aid to help families in need by offering $2 off admission (6:30-9pm) when people donate their gently used coats or blankets. The Victoria Cool Aid Society has been building hope, lives and community in the Capital Region for over 40 years, since 1968, through a wide range of programs including supported housing, community health and dental services, emergency shelter, mental health and employment services, and the Downtown Community Centre. Cool Aid focuses its services for adults who are homeless or in need of help and provides assistance to over 10,000 individuals every year.
Each year we also invite Santa’s Anonymous to come and provide our coat check services for our patrons and all proceeds go towards helping children and families have a happier Christmas. Santa’s Anonymous Society is now celebrating 32 years of helping children in Greater Victoria. It is Victoria’s longest running children’s charity. A twelve member volunteer board oversees the running of the society and the distribution of funds. The board endeavors to make the Christmas "spirit of giving” continue throughout the year by making special grants available to projects dedicated to enhancing the lives of children in need.
It’s important to support small and local businesses, and Out of Hand provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Meet the person behind the masterpiece, and find gifts you and your loved ones will really connect with. Out of Hand also makes for a great family event with seniors and students receiving $1 off admission and kids under 16 admitted to the fair for free! Come and join us this year and help us give back to the community we are so proud to be a part of.
