Craft market, summer job fair, and Irish dancing this weekend

WATERLOO REGION — Whether you feel like shopping for the holiday, dancing to some Irish tunes, or skating, there are plenty of options this weekend in the region.

Here’s a shortlist of things to do:

On Saturday, shop for homemade crafts and used or antique items at the Etsy Holiday Market at RIM Park in Waterloo. It is organized by Etsy, an online association of people that make homemade items.

Admission is free. There are swag bags and raffles and more than 75 different local vendors. There’s handmade art, jewelry, decor, soaps, pottery, food items, cosmetics, knitted wears and woodwork. If summer employment is on your mind, make a stop at Kitchener City Hall between 1 and 4 p.m. on Saturday for the Summer Employment Expo. Chat with city staff about upcoming opportunities for youth between the ages of 15 and 24, and get tips on resumé writing and interviewing. The expo will also provide a great opportunity to network and learn about careers in the public service. Positions available are in camps, youth programs, and inclusion services. For more information about positions available visit: www.kitchener.ca/ hiringnow.

On Saturday evening, learn how to dance to Irish folk music. The Grand River Ceili Band will start playing traditional Irish music from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Victoria Park Pavilion and dance instruction will be provided. No experience is necessary and the event is family friendly. Tickets at the door are $15 and children under 12 years of age are free.

It’s time to get your skates out! The Optimist Club of Cambridge is hosting a free family skate on Sunday at the Dickson Arena from 2 to 4 p.m. But if staying warm is what you’d prefer, the central Kitchener Public Library is showing the latest Beauty and the Beast film in its 200-seat theatre at 2 p.m. Bring your own snacks.