With the holiday season around the corner and everyone getting into the spirit of giving and shopping, the Island Market is hosted once again amidst the Christmas buzz and the impending new year, on the 10th of December. Island Market is a heartfelt endeavour to uplift small home businesses weathering the storm of pandemic uncertainties and economic downturn. It goes beyond being a mere event; it’s a dedicated initiative championing local entrepreneurs, small businesses, creators, and makers. Serving as a launchpad for their products, The Island Market acts as the vital link connecting these vendors with eager buyers.
Their key focus lies in empowering female home-based vendors and offering support to individuals facing physical challenges, visual or hearing impairments, or special needs. The Island Market strives to level the playing field, recognizing the limited opportunities available to these talented individuals.
Speaking to the founder and chairperson of Island Market, Nisreen Dissanayake, we found out that the December market is the best way to get people into the spirit of giving while empowering local businesses. “with COVID, the economic crisis, a year of job losses, economic fluctuations and many more, it was a bit difficult to hold the Island Market because people were not in a spending mood for the longest. This has also affected many small businesses. Island market is attempting to give them new life by providing them an opportunity to showcase their product,” she said.
This time Island market has partnered with Odel to showcase over 75 local businesses in a spectacular cultural event for the vibrant Colombo community. The “Magical Christmas Market” promises a delightful array of Christmas decor, home essentials, handpicked collectibles, local artisans, arts and crafts, kids carnival games, a balloon dome, bouncy castles, a visit from Santa Claus, presents, live music, and an enticing selection of food and beverages.
Experience the enchantment at the Arcade Independence Square in Colombo 7 on Saturday, December 9th, and Sunday, December 10th from 12 noon.
