This year, more than 145 farmers’ markets are welcoming visitors across British Columbia, making it easier than ever for you to shop local, support small businesses, and experience the diversity of BC agriculture.
If you are searching for freshly harvested vegetables or fruits, artisan cheeses, baked goods, meats and eggs, preserves, beverages, or handcrafted products, your closest farmers’ market is a great place to start!
Photo credit : Abbotsford and Port Moody Farmers' Markets & Johann Vincent
Much of the food consumed in North America travels thousands of kilometres before reaching our plates. For example, 92% of imported fruit in Canada travels more than 1,500 kilometres before reaching consumers. This affects food quality while contributing to important greenhouse gas emissions and food waste.
In contrast, the fresh produce sold at BC farmers’ markets usually travels less than 300km to reach your plate. Thus, local farmers’ markets are a great solution to directly purchase local products and support food grown and made in your own community.
More than just offering fresh food, farmers’ markets provide community spaces where visitors can meet local farmers and makers, learn about seasonal products, discover new flavours, and connect with their family, friends and neighbours.
Shopping at a farmers’ market means:
Not sure where to start?
The BC Farmers’ Market Trail is the province’s go-to guide for discovering farmers’ markets across British Columbia. Its interactive directory makes it easy to search for markets by region or season, so you can find local food wherever you live or travel.
To find a farmers’ market near you, visit https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/
Shopping at a Farmers’ Market might not be accessible for every household. That is why the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program helps eligible lower-income families, seniors, and pregnant people access fresh, nutritious, locally produced food through participating farmers’ markets.
This food security program, supported by the Province of British Columbia, is provided in collaboration with community organizations across the province.
As markets open their gates for another season, now is the perfect time to embrace fresh, seasonal eating. Grab your reusable bags, prepare your tasting buds, and visit the market closest to you!
Photo credit : Kamloops Regional and Langley Community Farmers' Market & Johann Vincent
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