Glenravel Summer Market set to showcase local ceramics, crafts, food and family favourites this weekend

The community of Glenravel are inviting the public from near and far to browse everything from handcrafted ceramics and woodwork to brownies, books and South African flavours as the Glenravel Summer Market returns to Martinstown Parish Hall this weekend.

The community event takes place on Sunday, June 28, running from 11am until 4pm, and will bring together a diverse mix of local makers, artists, bakers and small businesses from across the area and beyond.

With more than 20 traders expected to attend, organisers say this year’s market promises a packed day of shopping, local produce and unique handmade gifts, while providing an opportunity to support independent businesses and community causes.

A showcase for local makers and creators

Returning favourite Posh Rois Ceramics will see Noelle bring her striking pottery creations back to Glenravel, with visitors able to browse her distinctive designs and colourful glazes.

Another familiar face is Made with Love by Jayne, whose homemade jams and chutneys have become a popular addition to many local cupboards.

Woodturning specialist Paul from North Coast Crafts will also return with his handcrafted wooden pieces and pyrography work, while Louise McFadden brings her personalised gifts and bespoke keepsakes back to the market once again.

Local favourite Ravelglen returns with Annemarie’s range of jams and chutneys, while Angela McConville will offer an assortment of knitwear and handmade knitted gifts.

Visitors can also browse stationery and notebooks from first-time trader Wren Stationery Barn, as Jennifer makes her Glenravel debut this weekend.

Meanwhile, Lynn from Wax Duo returns with a selection of Scentsy products and home fragrances which have proven popular at previous events.

New faces joining the market

Freshly baked goodies are getting ready in the oven

Several traders will be attending the Glenravel market for the first time this year.

Tracey Aherne will showcase a collection of crocheted stuffed toys, while Cassie Harish of Moon Water Rising returns following a successful appearance at the Christmas fair with her range of holistic products and locally crafted items.

Children’s reading enthusiasts may enjoy browsing the selection of books available from Silvia Pinheiro and her Usborne Books range, while Victoria Dalzel will offer a variety of fidget toys aimed at younger visitors.

Rosaleen McKeown from Handwrit Heartfelt will make her first appearance with personalised gifts and keepsakes featuring handwritten customisation.

Adding an international flavour to the event, first-time trader Zeta Cronin will introduce visitors to South African-inspired food and flavours in what organisers describe as an exciting first for Glenravel.

Local ceramic artist Eithne Duffin will also be exhibiting her handcrafted pieces for the first time at the market.

Sweet treats and artisan baking

Carn’s take on the viral ‘Dot Cakes’ trend - a classic, vanilla sugar cookie, topped with a vanilla buttercream swirl, dunked into pink 100s & 1000s.

Food lovers are unlikely to leave disappointed.

Emma from Carn Bakery returns after selling out quickly during the Christmas fair and will once again bring her popular brownies and baked goods to Martinstown — this time with assurances there will be plenty more available.

Peter from Loves Melts, who is new to the area, will showcase his handmade candles and wax melts, produced with an emphasis on quality ingredients and sustainable materials.

Returning favourite Cora’s Candies will once again bring its pop-up pick-and-mix sweet shop to the market while continuing to raise funds for Angel Wishes Children’s Cancer Charity.

A business with a personal story

Behind Cora’s Candies lies a story that has resonated with many families across Northern Ireland.

Cora was diagnosed with Acute T Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma when she was just three years old and received support from Angel Wishes Children’s Cancer Charity throughout her treatment journey.

Now aged 10 and enjoying life, Cora attends fairs, markets and events across the region selling sweets to raise money for the charity that supported her and her family during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.

Her stall has become a regular and popular feature at community events while helping to support other families facing childhood cancer.

Art, fashion and gifts on offer

The market will also feature a broad range of artwork, accessories and gift ideas.

Amy McPeak returns once again with her popular Tropic Skincare products, while Michelle Hanley will offer scarves, jewellery and gift items.

Joanne McNaughton will make her first appearance at the market with a collection of framed oil paintings, while Donna Hardy will introduce visitors to felt art, a medium that has grown in popularity in recent years.

Returning trader Trisha Connor will also be back with her range of beaded keyrings, jewellery and handmade gift ideas.

Supporting local businesses and community spirit

Community markets have become an increasingly important way for small businesses and artisans to reach new customers while allowing shoppers to buy directly from local producers and makers.

With a mix of returning favourites and first-time exhibitors, organisers are hoping the Glenravel Summer Market will provide another successful day for traders and visitors alike.

The event takes place at Martinstown Parish Hall on Sunday, June 28, from 11am to 4pm, with residents and visitors encouraged to call in, support local businesses and enjoy a summer afternoon in the heart of Glenravel.