Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society hosts annual Christmas Market

By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on December 7, 2024.

Herald photo by Alexandra Noad People check out local Indigenous vendors at Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship centre's annual holiday market on Friday.

The Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society held their annual Christmas Market on Friday.

Ralee Reyes Argueta, administrative assistant office manager for the Friendship Society, says this market was not only a way for people to check things off their Christmas lists, but also support local Indigenous artists.

“They’re all very talented entrepreneurs from beadwork, to painting, sewing and everything like that,” said Reyes Argueta.

Reyes Argueta says the Friendship society wanted a safe place for Indigenous creators to branch out to new customers.

“I don’t feel like there’s enough markets for Indigenous (people) so that’s why we started,” said Reyes Argueta.

One of her traditions she has every year is attending various markets during the Christmas season.

The market had about 12 vendors of various entrepreneurs including jewelry, food and handmade clothing as well as a visit from Santa.

More information on events the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship society is hosting can be found on their Facebook page.