The Deer Lake Craft Festival is back for its 51st year. The event is at Shadbolt Center this weekend. Festival executive director Jody Phillips says after two smaller outings during the pandemic the festival is ready to return to the Burnaby spotlight.

“And so we really pulled it back, apparently, the last couple years to you know, 20 some odd vendors, and we’re slowly growing it back. And it’s a great opportunity for it to sort of modernize and change and incorporate some, you know, new vendors and entertainment”

Upwards of 40 vendors are at Shadbolt this weekend. They all are part of the Burnaby Arts Council, a nonprofit that focuses on artistic collaboration within the city.

Phillips also says attendees who are unfamiliar with the area of Deer Lake Park are in for a treat.

“As an East Vancouver resident, I knew a little about this area. I had been here for concerts before and had a really great time. But I didn’t know just how sort of rich it was with community and culture and events that are happening here.”

Admission is free and the last day of the festival is today.