Northwestern Ontario Canada Day Market Features Dryden Crafter Francine Higgins and Her Handcrafted Textile Works

The 2026 Melgund Township Artist and Vendor Market, taking place on Canada Day, July 1st, will feature Dryden-based crafter Francine (Fran) Higgins, whose finely crafted textile work reflects a lifelong connection to family tradition, creativity, and hands-on making. As part of a vibrant day of celebration, the market will bring together artists, makers, and vendors from across Northwestern Ontario, alongside the Summer Arts Exhibition currently on display.

Born and raised in Dryden, Ontario, Higgins developed an early appreciation for craftsmanship and the outdoors through time spent with family—picnics, fishing, blueberry picking, and shared experiences that shaped her connection to place and making. Her parents, Louis and Madeleine Toussaint, encouraged both creativity and independence, laying the foundation for a lifetime of hands-on work.

Her mother, a school teacher, played a central role in nurturing her creative skills, teaching her cooking, sewing, and a love of reading. Higgins recalls watching her mother sew clothing and later wearing garments made especially for her—early experiences that sparked a lasting appreciation for textile work. Evenings spent creating handmade Halloween costumes further strengthened both her skills and her connection to craft.

Sewing has remained a constant throughout Higgins’ life. From learning on her mother’s green Elna sewing machine to receiving a Kenmore sewing machine as a high school graduation gift in 1977—still in use today—her dedication to textile work has endured. While she has explored a range of crafts over the years, sewing continues to be her primary focus and creative grounding.

Today, Higgins describes sewing as her “happy place,” a steady and meaningful practice rooted in patience, care, and tradition. Her work reflects the enduring value of handmade craft within Northwestern Ontario’s creative culture.

Visitors to the Canada Day market will have the opportunity to meet Higgins in person, explore her work, and connect directly with a maker whose practice is deeply tied to family, place, and lived experience.

The Melgund Township Artist and Vendor Market is a popular annual gathering that showcases the creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of local artists, artisans, crafters, makers, growers, and small businesses from across Melgund Township, Borups Corners, Dyment, and neighbouring communities.

With pop-up vendors, original artwork, handmade goods, and live community energy, the market offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to discover unique products, support local creators, enjoy the Summer Arts Exhibition, or simply spend time connecting with neighbours, this Canada Day event highlights the strength and vitality of arts and culture in Northwestern Ontario.