All three farmers’ markets in the city are open and anticipating a summer of heavy foot traffic.
Whether residents are in Galt, Hespeler or Preston, they’ll have the opportunity to shop for local produce and support vendors in the community.
“The Hespeler Village Market is an amazing place for people to gather, whether it’s to purchase fresh and local food and drinks or handcrafted artisan products, experience our awesome entertainment, discover local community groups or simply grab a bite to eat,” Nat de Villiers, board member for the Hespeler BIA, said.
“It’s a community hub where people can kick back and relax with their neighbours for a few hours.”
The Preston Towne Farmers’ Market is open Thursday’s from 1 to 6 p.m., followed by the Hespeler market on Friday and the Cambridge market in Galt on Saturday.
de Villiers looks forward each year to the weather turning and watching residents come together.
“We hope that people take away the importance of shopping local and supporting our local farmers, food producers and artists,” she said.
“We love seeing the regular customers and meeting new ones. Seeing the smiling faces on the kids as they experience our entertainment is a highlight."
The Hespeler market will look to leverage the closure of Queen Street to create a go-to location for weekend entertainment. With vendors not under contract, it creates an opportunity to bring in new ones each week, de Villiers says.
“Our amazing entertainment spills over into Queen Street allowing for people to experience our vibrant downtown,” she said.
“Vendors aren’t committed to a whole season, which means that every week people can visit their favourite seasonal vendors or discover new ones.”
Colleen Bulla of the Preston Towne Market says its market also represents more than just a place to shop.
“The market is located right in the heart of Preston at Central Park offering easy access by foot or car to the residents,” Bulla said.
“As they have for more than a decade, we hope residents continue to enjoy supporting local food producers and seeing their neighbours. I’m looking forward to the hustle and bustle of the locals coming together to shop, listen to music and catch up with friends.”
Both the Hespeler and Preston markets will host the Idea Exchange for various activities aimed at enhancing the experience.
Families can bring their children for crafts, games and to learn more about the Idea Exchange’s services.
“The live musicians and the children’s programs put on by Idea Exchange are always popular,” Bulla said.
None of it would be possible without the support and effort put in by volunteers to create a welcoming atmosphere, de Villiers says.
“The Hespeler Village Market is run by a dedicated small group of volunteers, who are invested in the village’s success, so our passion for the market and our community shows,” she said.
“People like discovering what our city and community has to offer. We bring together vendors and community groups that residents might otherwise not be able to experience.”
