Photo Credit: Frogbox.com

It’s that time of year again.  After months of gray skies and drizzle, the sun is shining, pale skin is finally getting a tan and the farmers’ markets have returned to Vancouver.  The Trout Lake Farmers Market was among the first to open, kicking off the summer season on May 14.  But they’re not the only game in town.

Here’s a quick rundown of Vancouver’s four major summer farmers’ markets.   Check out my next post for a review of some lesser-known options.

Trout Lake Farmers’ Market, Open Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 14-Oct. 22:   Located in Trout Lake Park in East Vancouver, this market has been around since 1995 and features 48 vendors, including 30 selling primarily farm products.  This year’s market features an expanded selection of farm-fresh beef, pork, seafood, cheese and eggs, in addition to the usual wide variety of fruits and vegetables.  With vendors selling prepared  food and crafts and hot food trucks, as well as a large picnic area at Trout Lake, this market has a lively, festival feel.

Kitsilano Farmers’ Market, Open Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 22-Oct. 23: Located at 10th Avenue and Larch Street in the parking lot of the Kitsilano Community Centre, this popular market has 48 vendors, with 29 selling primarily farm products.  It offers an extensive selection of organic produce, as well as meat, cheese, seafood, plants, baked goods and crafts.  For kids, there’s a nearby playground and waterpark.

Main Street Station Farmers’ Market, Open Wednesdays from 3 p.m.-7 p.m., June 1-Oct. 5: Right near the heart of downtown at the Pacific Central Station (at Main and Terminal Streets), this weekday market has proven a hit among the after-work crowd looking to pick up something fresh for dinner.  Some 35 vendors, including 15 carrying primarily farm products, sell everything from fruits and vegetables to organic meats and cheeses and even preserves.

West End Farmers’ Market, Open Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 4-Oct. 22: Situated across from newly renovated Nelson Park in Vancouver’s West End, this decidedly urban market features 35 vendors, including 22 selling primarily farm products.  In addition to produce and meats, prepared foods and crafts are on offer, as well as hot food from various food trucks and carts.

That rounds out Vancouver’s major farmers’ markets.  Stay tuned for my next post for some alternative market options in and around the city.

Do you have a favourite farmers’ market?  Please share feedback below.