Farm produce at Exhibition Park Farmers Market - LNN

By Dori Modney

Farmers` markets gearing up for the summer months

Jun 9, 2021 | 3:31 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. — It`s that time of year everyone looks forward to – Farmers Market time! You go for the fresh fruit and vegetables and the comaraderie of meeting friends to catch-up on the latest or engaging in a few minutes of gossip. It`s very social.

There are more than 130 approved Farmers markets serving about 110 communities across Alberta, as well as 20 markets that operate year round.

Some are already open, including the Farmers Market at Lethbridge Exhibition Park, and they will be open throughout the summer.

Eileen Kotowich, the farmers’ market specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AF) says Alberta’s farmers’ markets offer a diverse selection of goods.

“What you`ll see in the markets right now, are lots of greenhouse bedding plants and vegetables, early season vegetables, and lots of nutritious foods that include preserves, baking, prepared foods, and other year-round products like meat, eggs and honey.’ There are also t`he local crafts and art.“

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A minimum of 80% of vendors’ products must be produced in Alberta to qualify as an Alberta approved farmers’ market which is great for agri-tourism and shoppers spend an average of $70 per visit.

Part of the success of farmers’ markets is that consumers want to know where their food comes from and to make that connection with the producers.

“It gives you a feeling of trust when you can look the producer in the eye and talk to them about how they raise their animals, grow their crops or prepare their ready-to-eat foods.“

The markets will look a little different this year as they incorporate increased protocols and safety measures into their operations, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vendor stalls and tables are separated within the market, increased cleaning and sanitizing of high touch point surfaces happens during the market. Crowds will be asked to use one entrance and exit so that crowd numbers can be monitored to ensure physical distancing. Customers are being encouraged to shop with purpose so that everyone who wants to attend a market has an opportunity to support their local makers, bakers and growers.

As for choosing the Farmers’ Market closest to you, watch for the Sunnygirl logo, which lets you know there is an approved farmers’ market nearby and check out the Alberta Agriculture Map to help locate approved Farmers’ markets

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