Editor’s Note: Our team has heard from various community members all the ways Revelstoke punches above its weight class. From non-profits and businesses to events, there are examples everywhere. We’re putting a spotlight on these humble brags and giving them a chance to highlight others who are making big things happen in a small town.
Big Eddy Glass Works owner and head glass blower Leah Allison never had second thoughts about making Big Eddy home for herself and her business. Previously working in Invermere, and with dreams of maybe living in Berlin, there was a particular charm found in Revelstoke’s southwest neighbourhood that captivated Allison.
“It’s just got such good vibes and potential. So many old locals love what’s going on here. They’re appreciating the businesses that are starting up in this town and in this neighbourhood, particularly,” Allison said.
On a hunt for commercial space where she could create a glass blowing studio, Allison and her partner Rob approached property owners throughout the Big Eddy before finding their current lot now home to their business.
“We were like so many others in this town, really just trying to find that commercial space. People still knock on my door asking us what our plans are for this property,” she said, adding that businesses such as Holm Coffee continue to highlight the neighbourhood’s potential.
Oddly shaped property lines, less an issue and more a staple feature of the neighbourhood, nudged Allison to take the leap and purchase the adjoining property. Formerly home to Big Eddy Diesel, Jackalope Bikes and Metalworks Forge now operate on this property. A focus on artistry and respectful neighbours was key in Allison bringing the two businesses into the neighbourhood.
“I want to be a good neighbour because there’s a lot of folks that have lived here forever. I didn’t want to just roll in with a new business and be loud and take up space,” she said, stressing the community has shown up to support Big Eddy Glass Works, other neighbourhood businesses and even Allison herself since she moved. Cultivating good business neighbours in whatever way she can is one way Allison wants to give that same care back to the Big Eddy.
“I can’t imagine living anywhere else in Revelstoke,” she said.
As plans start to form for Big Eddy Glass Works to move to another building on the property and as Allison eyes up future tenants, art remains a focus for her. Similar to other industries in town, rental space for studios and artists is in short supply. Allison hopes she can provide those spaces in the near future and help others fall in love with the Big Eddy.
“People told me when we first moved in here, ‘no one’s going to come to the Big Eddy, no one’s going to be able to find you.’ But that’s just not been true. The neighbourhood and so much of Revelstoke shows up for us.”
Big Eddy Winter Market
A staple way Allison is bringing the celebration to the neighbourhood is with the annual Big Eddy Winter Market, running for its sixth year Friday, Dec. 12. Pulling inspiration from Berlin street markets and adding a Revelstoke flair or two, the outdoor market welcomes vendors from all over the region to showcase artwork, handcrafted items, drinks, foods and more.
“It’s a lot of work, it takes a lot of helping hands. But it’s my most favorite thing we do here,” Allison said.
All ages are welcome to come down and watch live glass-blowing demonstrations, enjoy the sights and music and explore what vendors are offering this year. Seasonal drinks including mulled wine will be available along with food trucks for those wanting supper at the market.
Similar to previous years, a free shuttle service will be available with five stops before heading to Big Eddy Glass Works. The shuttle has been a key feature in keeping the market accessible and the neighbourhood safe with alcoholic beverages being sold. Overnight parking will also be available if plans change and visitors need to find an alternative way home.
“I’m encouraging cars sleeping over for the night. Let’s get everyone home safe,” Allison said.
The event is ticketed at $5 for adults in an effort to build the resources needed to keep the market festival sustainable for the long-term. Kids get free entry.
“We need entertainment”
Allison is quick to sing her praise for other Big Eddy staples like First Light Farms, Holm Coffee and the beloved Big Eddy Market gas and grocery store. But a particular business found on the other side of the Big Eddy bridge is what comes to mind when she’s asked who in Revelstoke is making big moves for the community.
With an updated screen and projection bulbs changed on the regular, featuring everything from local ski films to international blockbusters, The Roxy Theatre is a valued resource in Revelstoke, Allison said. All those efforts are led by Greg Rose, Roxy owner and operator since 2020. Rose and his team have earned praise for keeping The Roxy updated, affordable for locals and providing employment for teens in Revelstoke.
Keeping a theatre operational in a small, mountain town that often prioritizes outdoor recreation is no easy feat, Allison said. But Rose’s passion for The Roxy and for Revelstoke is evident the moment you step through the theatre doors. It’s a level of passion Allison hopes the town never takes for granted.
“We need entertainment,” she said. “We need to hang out with our friends and go get some popcorn.”
What did you think of this story?
Your feedback after we publish a story helps ensure we're always improving our reporting to better serve you
