Refugee Holiday Arts & Food Bazaar
- East Communities YMCA
- Saturday, December 6, 10am to 2pm
The East Communities YMCA will transform into an international bazaar on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10am to 2pm as the Y partners with Global Impact Initiative (GII) to host a Refugee Holiday Arts & Food Bazaar. City of Austin Human Rights Officer Shafina Khaki will begin the event with brief remarks for the participants at 10am.
The free community event features the work of refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Cuba and others who have recently settled in Austin. The artisans will be showcasing hand-made goods including jewelry, handbags, dresses, leather goods, candles, decorative cushions, paintings and fresh-baked pastries, treats and traditional foods (Come hungry!). One hundred percent of proceeds go directly to the vendors.
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine as well as the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, more than 3000 refugees have settled in Central Texas. Through organizations like GII, many have found employment in a variety of sectors such as food processing facilities, commercial driving and hospitality. Refugees are also participating in intensive English-as-a-second language (ESL) classes at the HOFT Institute.
