Ramsgate's Handmade & Vintage Fair goes from strength to strength

Way back in 2013, the idea of a monthly Handmade Fair was put into practice by Suzy Humphries and Janice Gibbs from the Nice Things shop, which was located in The Custom House on Harbour Parade in Ramsgate.

In 2014, the Fair moved into Albert Court, tucked behind York Street, where you can see the brick carved sofa and chair! The Fair started to grow and that Easter we organised workshops and a parade of Easter bonnets. Ramsgate Town Council supported the Fairs with a small grant to pay for a banner and flags to help people know the event was going on.

The Fair returned to the harbour in 2015 and was set up opposite the Queen’s Head, where it runs now, on the first Sunday of each month from Easter to Christmas, and we added occasional stalls selling Vintage items.

The opening of Wetherspoons at the Royal Pavilion brought a much bigger crowd to the harbour, which continues to grow. There are generally over 30 stalls nowadays! The organisers Janice and Suzy are strict in making sure that goods sold are all truly handmade locally.

You can find dog treats in wonderful colours from Sharon Page; Anna Tas makes gorgeous soaps and preserves, all made in Ramsgate; Felt-maker Christine May pops across from Broadstairs as does Nero Wire Art with his spectacular copper wire trees. There’s a huge choice at the Fair, and any money spent goes straight to the makers. We’ve seen a lot more people wanting to take part this year, partly due to lockdown we think, when lots of people began crafting or used the time to begin making things again.

The Handmade & Vintage Fair is located on Harbour Parade, CT11 8LP from 10am until 4pm. For anyone keen to take part, talk to Janice on the day, or contact her through RamsgatesHandmadeFairs@yahoo.com or via the Facebook page, ‘Ramsgate Handmade Fairs’.

Written by:
Suzy Humphries
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