Shop Local: Farmers Markets 2018
May marks the beginning of market season for many farmers' markets across Ontario.
It's a great month to visit because often you will find a variety of new vendors and many that are excited to start the new season. If you've never shopped your local farmers market, Park Property has answers to your most asked questions!
What's in season?
Stop into your local market in May for freshly picked apples, rhubarb, asparagus, carrots, mushrooms, cooking onions, potatoes, radishes, rutabaga, spinach, sprouts, and sweet potatoes. You may be able to also find greenhouse-grown cucumbers, lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes.
In June, you'll be able to pick up some freshly picked strawberries, cherries, summer squash, green peas, snow peas, green onions, field cucumbers, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, and beans.
To see a full list of all seasonal fruits and vegetables, click here.
Markets usually have vendors selling eggs, meats, cheese, preservatives, and baked goods as well. Some markets allow vendors to sell crafts, jewelry, art, and more!
When should I go?
Most markets are open Saturday mornings, some as early as 6am. Typically, they close at noon or shortly after. Most of the local markets operate from May to October (some even into November), while there are a few that operate year-round.
The following markets will be open starting Mother's Day weekend:
- Tillsonburg Farmers' Market, Bridge Street West (in front of the Station Arts Centre)
- Burlington Mall Lions Farmers' Market, open now in the Burlington Mall parking lot
- Ryerson Farmers' Market, Gould Street, Toronto (open Wednesdays)
- Cabbagetown Farmers' Market, Riverdale Park West, Toronto (opens May 24th) (closest to 20 Carlton St – 10 mins drive, 66 Isabella - 12 min drive)
- Davisville Village Farmers' Market, 14 Acacia Rd, Toronto (closest to Balliol Apts- walking distance, Milepost Apts – 12 min drive, 100 Roehampton – 6 min drive)
Opening in June:
- Stonegate Farmers' Market, 194 Park Lawn Road, Etobicoke (Opens June 19th)
- Hespeler Village Market, 11 Tannery St E, Cambridge (Opens June 8th)
- Port Credit Farmers' Market, Lakeshore Road East and Elmwood Ave, Mississauga
- Oakville Farmers' Market, 115 George Street
- U of T Farmers' Market Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough (opens May 30)
- Bloor.Borden MyMarket, 539 Bloor Street, Toronto (closest to 97 Walmer Rd, 100 Spadina Rd – mix of transit and walking 12 mins, & 66 Isabella – 13 min transit ride)
Open year-round:
- Cambridge Farmers' Market, 40 Dickson Street
- Guelph Farmers' Market, 2-4 Gordon Street
- Kitchener Farmers' Market, 300 King Street East
- Stratford Farmer's Market, 353 McCarthy Road
- St. Lawrence Farmers' Market, 92 Front Street East, Toronto (closest to 90 Adelaide St E – walking distance)
What should I bring?
Always bring cash and lots of change to buy your goods at the market. Most market stands don't accept debit or credit and ATMs can add extra fees. Come prepared with reusable bags, a cooler (if you plan to buy eggs, cheese, or meat), and dress for the weather. Most markets are all outdoors, so if it's hot, raining, or cold, dress appropriately.