Last summer a friend took me to KAMERS vol Geskenke in Stellenbosch. I was expecting yet another Christmas market full of arts & crafts type gift ideas. Nothing wrong with those kind markets, but they do become a little samey. How wrong could I have been!

KAMERS is huge pop-up retail event showcasing a fabulous collection of South African creative talent and fresh product ideas. The local exhibitors sell not only high quality creations from stunningly decorated stands, but are often as innovative as the organisers of KAMERS themselves.

The founder of KAMERS, Amelia van Zyl, realised her dream 11 years ago, when she moved her brand new business idea into the vacated home of a close friend. She wanted to “provide a platform, where creative people come together for inspiration, encouragement and support”. The first KAMERS started with just 40 suppliers. They now have annual pop-up events around the country with as many as 250 hand-picked exhibitors.

KAMERS not only supports homegrown talent, but also gives back through community initiatives, such as Breytenbach Centre, Cape Craft & Design Institute, Elves at Work, Good Hope Psychological Service, and Irene Homes.

For the first time, KAMERS vol Geskenke is taking place at the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town, as part of the Official World Design Capital Cape Town 2014 programme, and in collaboration with the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI).

For 4 days between the 5 and 8 June 2014, the Castle will be home to over 100 designers, crafters, foodies, and musicians. You can expect gorgeous handcrafted decor products, gifts, and jewellery, with a strong food and wine component.

Live music will include performances by Mr Cat & The Jackal and Lucy Kruger & The Lost Boys.

For a more detailed sneak peek of the Trading at the Castle line-up, check out their beautifully designed latest mini-mag.