In just 16 short years, the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market has grown into a remarkable showcase of British Columbia’s agriculture sector.
Early every Saturday morning from April to October, local growers, crafters, and bakers stock the market’s tables with produce freshly picked from Okanagan fields, and home baked and handmade goods.
“Back in the early days, we had just two or three regular vendors,” says market manager Bob Callioux. “Today, as we’re celebrating our 16th anniversary, we’re more than 50 times bigger. At the market’s height there can be 165 vendors and 5,000 locals and tourists shopping here.”
Callioux says two dedicated original vendors remain at the market. Isabelle Pires and Susanna Grob continue to bring their fresh food and products to the market every week. This year they’ve also welcomed some new, young urban farmers into the fold.
| “It’s really exciting to see more young people getting involved in agriculture,” says Callioux. “Some of our long-time organizers and vendors are getting ready to retire. It’s great to see younger people stepping in, ready to keep the market going for many more years.”
The agri-food industry is an important contributor to the provincial economy. B.C. has the most diverse agriculture sector in Canada with more than 225 food commodities. |
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Across B.C. the agri-food value chain generates $37 billion for the provincial economy and supports more than 305,000 jobs. Buying from market vendors and local farmers reduces the distance food travels from farm to fork. It also supports the future of agriculture in B.C.
To find a local farm or market in your area, visit www.bcfarmfresh.com
Just a note that the site listed at the bottom of the article http://www.bcfarmfresh.com – is only a guide to farms in the Fraser Valley. There are farm fresh guides out for many of our other regions in BC – but you have to dig a little. If you want to find a farmers’ market near you, go to http://www.bcfarmersmarket.org/findamarket.asp
Glad you enjoyed the article. Many thanks for taking the time to send us the link to the searchable Farmers’ Markets directory in B.C.
As long time fruit and vegetable vendors at the Kelowna Farmers’ Market, our family is pleased to see the growing interest and support for buy local, buy fresh from the Farmers’ Market. Our son is working with us, and will continue to farm with the support of local customers and a strong environment that also supports farming! Thanks to our many customers. Gambell Farms, Lake Country, BC