One of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s summer mainstays will open this weekend with “Market at the Village,” the town’s annual farmers market, beginning its 18th season on Saturday, May 25.
“We are so happy that winter is over and we can get our community back out on Saturday mornings,” said Brianne Hawley, one of the market’s administrators.
With everything from fresh seasonal produce, potted and hanging plants, flowers, preserves, breads, cheeses, sweets and even health and beauty products, the market features something for everyone — from Niagara-only vendors.
“We are considered a true farmers market,” she said. “That means that 100 per cent of our farmers are from the Niagara region. We have been vetted by the region.”
The market’s team sends a list of its vendors to the Niagara Region, which looks it over and gives the market a “seal of approval,” she said.
Opening at 8 a.m. on Saturday at 111 Garrison Village Dr., in the parking lot in front of Garrison House restaurant, the annual foods and fun gala runs to 1 p.m. weekly, right through to Oct. 5.
It features spaces to sit, visit, and eat with a sidewalk chalk area for children and is dog-friendly.
“All of our vendors are excited to see all of their returning customers and we are so looking forward to bringing local foods to local hands in the community,” said Hawley.
With space for 20-plus vendors, the market consistently sees between 11 and 14 merchants each week, depending on the season.
Hawley is encouraging anyone in Niagara who would like to secure a booth at the market to make contact via its website and fill out a vendor application.
“We want to keep creating a wonderful community space for everyone to get together on a Saturday morning and enjoy the fruits of everyone’s labour,” she said.
