As the last spring showers sprinkle down, Vancouverites are shaking dry in eager anticipation of the upcoming season: sweet summer. The city’s sunny days, comprised of long seawall treks dotted with crisp ocean dips, are to be savoured. The local farmers have been awaiting the season as well, picking and plucking their bounties in preparation for their debut at Vancouver’s farmers’ markets. Here, a handy guide to the city’s abundance.
Trout Lake
The historic location of the Vancouver Farmers Markets non-profit launched at the Trout Lake location in 1995, and it has been a staple ever since. Long-term vendors including Hill Top Farms from the Okanagan and Langley Organic Farmers can be expected to make their return, bringing a wide range fresh and unique goods with them.
Mt. Pleasant
Located next to Vancouver’s famous “Dude Chilling Park,” the Mt. Pleasant market is a local darling. Smack-dab in the center of the neighbourhood, the Sunday fair is perfect for leisurely summer days bookended, perhaps, with visits to nearby breweries such as Brassneck and 33 Acres. Or, try mixing an at-home cocktail made with vendor-supplied ingredients such as Dickie’s Ginger.
Located at the base of Main at Terminal, the Main Street Station market is another mid-week stop. The Wednesday event boasts similar options as the rest for fresh fruit and vegetables, but is also host to by-donation yoga sessions for a little hump-day calm.
Kitsilano
The Kitsilano market is quintessential Vancouver. Taking place every Sunday throughout the season in Connaught Park, the market plays host to the usual suspects including organic farmers and bakery A Bread Affair. A short walk from the neighbourhood’s beach and pool, it’s a tantalizing option for the hottest days of summer.
West End
Best visited in the cool of the morning, the West End market is bustling by the early afternoon. There’s a close sense of community here, as the market is a mainstay for residents of the West End doing their weekend shopping. Escape the English Bay crowds and the late summer swelter by taking a detour in the shady recluse of Stanley Park.
Mercato Italian Market
One Friday evening every month from June to August, the Italian Cultural Centre on Grandview Highway hosts an outdoor market complete with live music, hot food, and aritsanal vendors—everything from fruit and vegetables to wine. Pick up some pesto made with cilantro, mint, and jalapeno from Bobali, and perhaps a decadent chocolate pecan tart from Langley’s Sweet Thea.
The city’s splendour is best consumed immediately—and ardently—after purchase.
Still hungry? Read more from our Food and Drink section.
