The arrival of Ontario Farmers’ Markets may be one of the surest signs that our local growing season is up, running and flourishing.
Farmers’ Markets are an important part of Ontario’s heritage, with the first Farmers’ Market established more than 200 years ago in 1780 in Kingston. As the province’s population began to grow in those early years, so too did the popularity of Farmers’ Markets. However, by the middle of the last century, the number of Farmers’ Markets had begun to dwindle to as low as 60 by the 1980s. Action was needed to reverse the trend. Action was taken.
The rejuvenation of Farmers’ Markets took hold about 20 to 25 years ago and in 1991, Farmers’ Markets Ontario was established. Since then many local business and community groups have played a role in helping to sustain this integral part of Ontario’s history by forming community partnerships with municipal governments and farmers. Today new markets are being established and old markets are being revitalized as consumers discover and rediscover the unique nature of the Farmers’ Market shopping experience. In fact, Ontario has become a Farmers’ Market leader and is sharing information and best practices that are helping to revive Farmers’ Markets all across Canada.
Farm fresh produce, close to home.
Typically, Farmers’ Markets open their stalls about the middle of May and close up shop for the season by Thanksgiving. During those months, communities come together as people meet and greet local farmers, taste test and purchase in-season produce and chat with neighbours.
No matter what the weather, fresh picked food is available at your local Farmers’ Market. From fruits, vegetables and meats, to herbs, maple syrup and honey, these are just some of the many products available, come rain or shine.
Ontario consumers can also be confident that Farmers’ Markets offer food that is fresh, safe to eat and the next best thing to harvesting it yourself. Shopping at Farmers’ Markets gives you a chance to buy produce that may have been picked just hours before your arrival. Not only are you guaranteed healthy and fresh food, but Farmers’ Markets are also good for your community’s economy. For every dollar spent at the market, another two dollars ripple through the provincial economy. In Ontario alone, sales at Farmers’ Markets total almost $600 million, leading to an economic impact of an astounding $1.8 billion.
Moreover, for every one person you see working at the market, another two are busy back on the farm. As many as 27,000 people in Ontario are directly involved in preparing and selling the products you find at the market.
Studies show 60 to 70 per cent of market-goers visit neighbouring businesses on their way to and from the market so the boost to the local economy goes even further.
To learn more about Ontario Farmers’ Market, visit http://www.farmersmarketsontario.com/
You can also find a listing of Farmers’ Markets across Ontario, so whether you are shopping locally or visiting another part of the province, chances are there is a Farmers’ Market open for business near you.
~Gary Struthers~