Fans of the popular Squamish Farmers' Market won't have to wait for nice weather to shop for local produce, crafts and confections.
The group recently announced plans to extend its market into the winter season, with it taking place at the CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre at the West Coast Heritage Railway Park starting on Saturday (Jan. 15).
"We've had such a successful summer market," said organizer Carolyn Morris. "And it's thanks to eager citizens, vendors and volunteers that we are continuing in the winter season."
Morris admitted the winter market won't be as abundant with fresh produce, but it will have a diverse number of vendors and will also host musicians in a community space that everyone can enjoy. She said those who attend the summer markets regularly will notice many familiar vendors. Morris added that the location will be nice and warm and she said the response to the new market has been positive.
"The vendors seem to generally be excited," she said. "We have many returning vendors but we are totally open to new ones and are actively looking for them as we speak."
Morris pointed out that farmers' markets are gaining popularity all over and is pleased that there is enough interest to continue into the winter.
"Farmers' markets are forming and gaining strength all over the world," she said. "A renewed appreciation and consciousness about the initiatives and contributions from the surrounding community is blossoming. Whether it be meeting the farmer that grows your dinner or connecting with the artist that created the perfect gift, it is rewarding to bring human context back into the picture of our daily consumption."
While most market vendors are from Squamish, the market will also welcome food vendors, farmers, artists and craft-makers from Pemberton to the Okanagan. Everything is made, baked or grown in B.C., Morris said.
"This is a local movement and it's nice to see people supporting a local initiative like this," she said. "Squamish has a lot to offer - food, arts, crafts and it's great to showcase our local talent."
Admission to the market is free and market patrons are encouraged to check out the West Coast Heritage Railway Park while they're visiting the market.
There will be four winter markets at the Roundhouse Centre and they will all be held on Saturdays. Scheduled dates for the market are; Jan. 15, Feb. 12, March 12 and April 9. Hours for the market will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Those interested in being vendors can contact Morris at (604) 815-0928. For more information on the markets, visit www.squamishfarmersmarket.com.
