If you’re looking for that perfect last-minute holiday gift—or just want an excuse to sip hot cocoa in your coziest pajamas—downtown Dover has you covered. Aplomb Gallery is hosting its inaugural "Arctic Artisan Fair" on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., filling 262 Central Avenue (and the adjacent bonus space!) with handmade treasures, festive treats, and plenty of holiday cheer.

This year’s fair features 28 local artists and makers, all bringing one-of-a-kind creations you won’t find anywhere else. From wearable art and jewelry to fine art, pottery, prints, home décor, and whimsical handmade gifts, it’s the perfect place to shop small and support Dover’s creative community.

A Cozy Holiday Market—PJs Encouraged

The Arctic Artisan Fair is all about warmth and fun—yes, even in December. Guests are invited to wear their favorite pajamas while browsing, making the atmosphere even more delightfully laid-back. Picture this: you, a cup of hot cocoa, a Christmas cookie in hand, strolling past tables of beautifully crafted goods. It’s basically the holiday spirit wrapped in a bow.

Practical perks? Free parking is available in the back (Kirkland Street), handicap accessibility is available in the front, and there’s a suggested $10 donation to support The Aplomb Project. And don’t forget—pop into neighboring shops while you’re there and collect stamps for a chance to win a prize!

Why This Event Matters

While the Arctic Artisan Fair is going to be a fun seasonal outing, it also shines a spotlight on something deeply meaningful: the work of Aplomb Gallery and The Aplomb Project, the nonprofit it supports.

Founded by contemporary artist Danielle Festa, Aplomb began as a personal and artistic response to trauma. In 2021, Danielle started painting survivor portraits—hyper-realistic works paired with mixed-media fabric elements—to honor the resilience of trauma survivors. What started as one painting grew into a powerful nonprofit mission.

Today, The Aplomb Project is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to uplifting trauma survivors through art. With help from donors, sponsors, and events like the Arctic Artisan Fair, the organization:

• Creates and gifts personalized oil portraits of resilience to survivors

• Provides expressive art-kit resources to individuals and organizations

• Hosts inclusive exhibitions and community art events

• Offers trauma-informed healing workshops

• Publishes a biannual book featuring portraits, stories, and poetry

• Awards art scholarships for creative healing

Danielle’s vision—and her incredible ability to reflect strength through textile and paint—has grown into a widely respected community resource. Her work has not only inspired countless individuals but has also fostered a creative, supportive network for survivors and allies alike.

More to Explore at Aplomb

If you’ve never visited Aplomb Gallery before, the Arctic Artisan Fair is the perfect introduction. Beyond this event, Aplomb offers:

Aplomb Art Café

A choose-your-own-creative-adventure experience where art supplies replace food menus. Draw, paint, collage, or craft—no experience required.

Restore at Aplomb

A dedicated healing space offering trauma-informed services including talk/art therapy, reiki, massage, acupuncture, and more.

Aplomb Classes & Workshops

Art courses and meetups designed with care, inclusivity, and trauma-informed practices. Proceeds help fund The Aplomb Project’s mission.

Don’t Miss This Festive Downtown Event

The Arctic Artisan Fair is one of those uniquely Dover happenings where creativity, community, and holiday fun blend together perfectly. Come support local artists, find meaningful gifts, sip something warm, and be part of a mission that makes a difference.

Saturday, December 20th — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Aplomb Gallery – 262 Central Ave, Dover

Bring your PJs. Bring your holiday spirit. Bring your friends.
And discover something beautiful—right here in downtown Dover.