Image courtesy of Abi Porter | Flickr.com
Thought you could only get farm-fresh local fruits, veggies, eggs, and meats during the summer? Think again! Vancouver Winter Farmers Markets are a great opportunity to shop for farm-to-table goodness every Saturday and Sunday during the winter season.
On Saturdays, Nat Bailey Stadium is transformed into a food-lovers paradise when 70+ farmers and merchants flock to the stadium for BC’s largest winter farmers market. Featuring winter veggies, eggs, cheeses, breads, and craft alcohol, it’s a great place to shop for your weekly groceries. If you miss Saturday’s affair, you can also check out the Sunday market at Hastings Park. Located near the PNE Fairgrounds, this market features over 20 vendors hawking their delicious seasonal goods.
Need a few more reasons to check out the winter farmers markets? Check out five more reasons to visit below!
1. Eat more veggies and fruits!
Have you been overeating during these dark, cold days of winter? Maybe it’s time to break away from the habit of chowing down on pizza while binge watching old Friends episodes on Netflix! Wandering through the Winter Farmer’s Markets is inspiring. With veggies and fruits that look this good – you’ll be throwing out your last bag of chips in place of some deliciously roasted veggies. Bathing suit season is fast approaching… time to start embracing the carrot!
2. Shop for unique gifts
Looking for a gift for your hard-to-buy-for friend or loved one? Avoid the mall, check out the Vancouver Farmers Market! I don’t know anybody that wouldn’t appreciate a gift of some ethically raised meat, artisanal cheeses, or craft alcohol. If you don’t want to wrap up a bundle of food, there’s also a great selection of handmade crafts and bottled goodies that make great gifts.
Photo Credit – Matt Kelly for Winter Farmers Market
3. Great local feel
If you’re just visiting Vancouver, checking out the local farmers market is a great way to get a fast introduction into the local culture. The people watching opportunities are boundless. Everyone always seems to be in a great mood and you can usually strike up a fun conversation with some of the local farmers and craftspeople.
4. Dogs are allowed
Got a dog in tow? No worries – dogs are allowed on leash and under control in the market. If you are a dog lover, the market is a great place to get a few extra opportunities to meet some cute fluffy puppers!
5. Delicious food truck offerings
If you’ve worked up an appetite after all your shopping, don’t forget to check out some of the food trucks available at the markets. The options change regularly, but you’ll usually be able to find something delicious, whether it’s pie, tacos, Thai food, or a breakfast sandwich.
Rain or shine, the Vancouver Winter Farmers Markets are held on Saturdays at Nat Bailey Stadium from 10am – 2pm until April 21 and on Sundays from 10am – 2pm at Hastings Park in the PNE Fairgrounds between the Forum and Agrodome.
