By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
The holiday season officially began at the Tulalip Gathering Hall on November 14 and 15, as approximately 80 vendors filled the space for this year’s two-day Tulalip Holiday Bazaar. From the moment the doors opened at 9 a.m., visitors enjoyed a festive mix of creativity, culture, and community spirit. Rows of tables displayed everything from hand-carved artwork and lawn ornaments to Christmas decorations, sparkling jewelry, and unique one-of-a-kind gifts made by local artists and families.
Walking through the hall felt like stepping into a marketplace built on tradition and craft. Cedar regalia and wool hats highlighted the event’s cultural side, while sports memorabilia offered something for collectors and superfans. Many guests made their way to the food vendors, where the smell of smoked salmon wafted through the building, and tables were stacked with homemade cakes, cookies, jams, and other baked treats. It reminded everyone why the bazaar is a favorite place to find both gifts and good food.
The variety this year ensured there was something for every shopper, whether they were searching for meaningful handmade gifts or simply wanting to support local vendors. Many community members spent time talking with the artists behind the work and learning the stories and inspiration that went into their creations. The event once again demonstrated the strength of local talent in Tulalip and the importance of these gatherings in supporting small, Native-owned businesses.
One of this year’s participating Tribal artists, Al Charles, shared how his journey into jewelry design began and why the craft holds such meaning for him. “Just growing up seeing everyone wearing silver jewelry, I would ask where they got it from, and they would say Canada or somewhere else,” he said. “Living in Washington, it was hard to find people who knew how to do that kind of work. I always carved wood and always wanted to learn how, so one weekend in Vancouver, BC, I watched a teenage kid carve a ring. He let me borrow his tools so I could try, and after that weekend, I was hooked and have been doing it ever since.”
When asked about his favorite pieces, Charles pointed to his bracelets, which feature designs inspired by wool and cedar weave, etched into the silver. “I put more of a story on the bracelets. I wanted to put designs that represent us, like cedar, water, and the mountains.”
For Charles, creating jewelry is deeply personal. “Being Salish, seeing people wear your jewelry with Salish designs made by a Salish person, it makes me very proud.”
He also explained how important the bazaar is for artists throughout the year.
“It is a big part of our sales for the year. I also enjoy the atmosphere. It is a great place to see your relatives and friends.”
For those who could not attend or wish to do more holiday shopping, the next bazaar will take place on December 5 and 6 at the Don Hatch Youth Center. With another round of vendors, gifts, artwork, and seasonal treats, the community has another opportunity to shop local, support Tulalip artisans, and celebrate the spirit of the season.