Photo by Mack Male.
When summer hits in Calgary it feels like the whole city comes alive. Food trucks fill the streets, great local eateries open their patios, and, best of all, the farmers’ markets fill with fresh veggies and homemade goodies.
While the big farmers’ markets in the city are an absolute treat to visit (Kingsland, Calgary Farmers’ Market, and Crossroads are absolute musts), there are plenty of smaller, neighbourhood markets that are worth exploring. Here are five that are worth a visit this summer – you might even find a new favourite vendor!
5. South Fish Creek Recreation Association Farmers’ Market
100 333 Shawville Blvd SE
Although it might be one of the city’s smallest markets, the SFCRA Farmers’ Market always has a great selection of fresh produce. This is the 10th annual market for the association. The market is open Fridays, from July 4th to September 19th, between 1:00 and 5:00 p.m.
4. Bridgeland-Riverside Farmers’ Market
917 Centre Avenue NE
The Bridgeland Farmers’ Market has an awesome selection of vendors you won’t see elsewhere in the city. This year, with the help of Luke’s Drug Mart, the market has set aside a section for youth. If you’re ages 5-18 and have an entrepreneurial spirit, contact the market for a free table to hawk your wares! The market is open Thursdays, from June 19th to October 9th, between 3:30 and 7:00 p.m.
3. Grassroots Northland Farmers’ Market
5111 Northland Drive NW
The Grassroots Northland Farmers’ Market was established initially to raise money for environmental issues – and has been going strong for an impressive 23 years. The market has 45 vendors, and supports a different non-profit organization each week. It runs every Tuesday from June 3rd to September 30th, between 3:30 and 7:00 p.m.
3512 5 Avenue NW
The Parkdale Farmers’ Market is one of the few neighbourhood markets in Calgary that is open year round – in the summer they move outdoors to accommodate more vendors. On top of delicious freshly made goods, the market occasionally offers movie nights on sustainable food themes. They’re open every Wednesday, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.
1. Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers’ Market
1320 5 Avenue NW
The Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers’ Market always feels more like your neighbours have invited you over for a barbeque, than an official market. Friendly vendors, delicious dinners served up in the kitchen, local music, and, in the summer, beer gardens for the adults and face painting for the kids – should grocery shopping really be this fun? The market runs Wednesdays, between May 28th and October 1st, from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m. In the winter, the market is held on the first Wednesday of every month – excluding January.