Our Long and Successful History
Where It All Began (1989)
From a room full of tables in 1989, Brandon’s Big One Arts & Craft Sale began as a small gathering of makers and dreamers. What started as a modest event has grown into one of the largest handmade arts & crafts sales in Manitoba.
Growth & Evolution
When Karen Keilback took over at year 8, she saw the potential to take the event beyond simple tables. The first big change?
Trade show curtains for booths — giving vendors the chance to create inspiring, creative displays.
Since then, the event has blossomed:
Expanded into two large rooms at the Keystone Centre.
Held over two weekends every October.
Featuring different vendors each weekend — giving customers a reason to visit more than once!
A Celebration of Makers
Brandon’s Big One proudly features:
175+ booths of artisans, makers, bakers & food vendors.
Vendors primarily from Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Carefully curated categories, ensuring variety and originality.
Fun fact: Everything is handmade, so no two years are ever the same. Trends evolve, products change — but the magic of discovery remains.
“If you see something from a maker that you like, you should buy it — because it may be gone when you go back!”
A Big Heart with a Big Impact
Over 25 years, Brandon’s Big One has donated:
$102,745.00 to the Canadian Cancer Society & BRHC Foundation, CancerCare — directly helping families in Brandon and across the Westman region.
This is made possible thanks to:
Part proceeds from admissions.
UCT Brandon Council #448 volunteers, who generously run the admission areas and coat check year after year.
Looking Ahead
The future of Brandon’s Big One is bright. We’re committed to:
Supporting small businesses and handmade communities.
Keeping the show fresh, inspiring, and full of variety.
Welcoming back our loyal customers each October — and meeting new ones every year.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we’ve built more than an event — we’ve built a community.
Don’t Just Visit. Be Part of the Story.
Be the first to know when vendor applications open, see sneak peeks of makers, and get reminders before the show.
