Shop handmade Palestinian crafts in South Surrey on Nov. 29 and support artisans affected by conflict in Gaza.
South Surrey Hosts Palestinian Craft Fair This Saturday
This Saturday, Nov. 29, South Surrey residents have a unique opportunity to shop with purpose at the Palestinian Craft Fair. Taking place from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Peninsula United Church (2756 127 St.), the event features handmade olive-wood carvings, embroidery, spices, and other artisanal treasures crafted by Palestinian artisans.
Crafting Hope Amid Conflict
The fair isn’t just a shopping event it’s a chance to make a tangible difference for artists thousands of miles away. Many Palestinians in the West Bank depend on tourism for their livelihood. The ongoing violence in Gaza has severely reduced visitors, devastating incomes, explained Janice Young, a retired minister of Peninsula United Church who now worships at The Church at South Point.
“With tourism plunging, this craft fair is a small but meaningful way to help these folks,” Young said.
A Mission Born From Firsthand Experience
The idea for the craft fair came from Katryn Harris, a Sechelt resident who visited the West Bank in October 2024. She heard countless stories of struggle, especially after the war in Gaza began in October 2023.
“One of the things people asked her was, ‘Please tell your friends what’s happening here,’” Young recalled. Inspired by Harris’s visit, Young and PUC’s Kathy Booth decided to organize the fair, bringing a slice of Palestinian culture to South Surrey.
Hundreds of Handmade Treasures
Attendees can expect hundreds of unique items, including olive-wood nativity carvings, Tatreez embroidery, stained-glass ornaments, and spices. Harris had so many items that a friend had to drive a large van to transport everything.
Harris highlighted the obstacles Palestinian artisans face: Israel’s freeze on Palestinian Authority funds and the closure of online sales platforms. “People in the West Bank want to work and earn a living, but most of their means have been cut off,” she said.
Shop With Purpose
By attending the fair, shoppers support both the artisans and charitable organizations such as L’Arche Bethlehem and Bethlehem Bible College. Beyond purchases, Young says the fair creates a personal connection:
“Through Katryn, we get to know these artisans. It makes their reality more real and human,” she said.
The Palestinian Craft Fair is happening Nov. 29, 2–4:30 p.m., at Peninsula United Church, 2756 127 St., South Surrey. Stop by to discover one-of-a-kind treasures and help make a meaningful difference.
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