Among the many christmas craft fairs is a brand new one at the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site.

Cait Bascom got it all started knowing these are tough times and not all artisans can afford to take in the big shows.

"Most tables are about $300 to$1,000, if you're wanting to go to a good quality Christmas fair, " she says. "We just don't have the money to put in that this year. I knew there was a need for this kind of market, all the tables are free for artisans that are coming, the venue is free and people can attend for free, so that's kind of the cool thing about this."

She says there are 20 artisans coming, but she felt a little like the Grinch when she had to turn another 50 or so away but she says that shows the need for this.

The show will include artwork, saddlery, food, weaving, children’s tattoos, Native themed colouring books and more.  

Christmas In The Country runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday December 4 in the Visitor Centre at the Bar U south of Longview on Highway 22.

It runs in conjunction with the Friends of the Bar U and their annual Children's Christmas Party which features hot chocolate and a bonfire beside Pekisko Creek on the National Historic Site from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m..