The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market moves outside this week.
After 24 years of running from 9-12 at the Exhibition Grounds, the market is adding an extra hour to the Saturday market.
“We consistently get demands for extended hours from customers who have trouble getting to the market Saturday morning, so we’ve decided to give folks another hour to make it in to shop,” said executive director Vickey Brown.
The new hours will take effect this weekend, at the first market at the exhibition grounds this year.
The Farmers’ Market is also considering adding a Sunday market to the roster this year. Brown is in the process of scoping sites in the Village of Cumberland.
“We’re testing the waters right now with an online survey, and depending on the response from customers, and interest from vendors, we’re looking at a weekly market — likely running 11a.m.—1p.m.
With Cumberland being the youngest community in B.C., and the streets full of young families, it is a friendly gathering place for a weekly farmers’ market with its mix of modern heritage feel. Surveys can be found on the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market Facebook site, or on the website.
Last year, the Cumberland Village Market ran monthly markets in Village Park with an interesting mix of artisan vendors. This market will continue this year, moving to the Village Square and running the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. starting May 7, focusing on artisan vendors. Applications are available on their Facebook site: Cumberland Village Market.
The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market is outgrowing its current locations and needs to look at alternate markets to ensure vending opportunities for local producers, and customers. If the Sunday market in Cumberland goes ahead, they’ll be looking for more farmers’ and food producers to fill up Sundays. Interested producers can find applications on the Farmers’ Market website at www.cvfm.ca.