If you follow my column, you鈥檒l know that I am an avid supporter of farmers鈥� markets.聽
Having had the opportunity to vend and shop at many in the Lower Mainland, I can tell you first-hand that 麻豆社国产is one of the best.聽
Our market runs every Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. down at the end of Cleveland Ave. by the new rainbow sidewalks.聽
May to October you can find producers and growers of many a fine thing braving all kinds of weather to bring their craft directly to you. There is also a winter market at the 麻豆社国产Elementary School.聽
The dedication is astounding. Along with 60 vendors, there is always live music and food to be found.聽
A lively bunch of folks who share the common belief in supporting local business abounds, and it is a virtual dog show with all of the beautiful pooches strutting their stuff.聽
After 12 years in operation, the 麻豆社国产Farmers鈥� Market Association is like a well-oiled machine. Run by dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to bring you the wonderful gift of uber local shopping.
So come on down from the Highlands, saunter over from Dentville, pop down from your condo downtown or journey from Valleycliffe and the Republic of Brackendale to join in on the fun and important act of supporting the people that bake, make and grow all of these wonderful things.聽
Bring them home and revel in them.聽
Enjoy them all week long knowing that the next week you can return to get more of that beautiful jam, another bar of that gorgeous soap, another bunch of those colourful radishes or just to bask in the old-timey feel of the weekly market.
Here are four reasons for making the 麻豆社国产Farmers鈥� Market a dedicated part of your week.
Supporting local economy
By spending your money at the market, you are essentially putting your money back into your community.聽
The people and companies you support will in turn shop at a local store, employ a local person, build their local business, etc.
By your act, you grow your community from the ground up.
In Season Eating
All of the produce you buy at the market is vibrating with life force! Many times it was picked that morning and is a hell of a lot fresher than anything coming across the ocean on a tanker, on a plane or even up from California. The level of nutrients has been proven to be higher, and it is all around way more delicious.
Community Mindedness
Almost everyone manning the stalls at the market is the creator or grower themselves. Nothing could be more inspiring than talking to them about what they are offering. The passion is palpable. These are the people in your neighbourhood. Meet them. Be inspired by them. Let their enthusiasm light up the rest of your week.
Kids
Not only is the market fun for kids with all of the tastes, smells and offerings, but what an important journey to have together. One where they understand where their food comes from. That there are people who work hard to grow and make it.聽
I wonder if we all grew up with this connection to our food supply, if less waste would occur and there鈥檇 be more love for the planet. So come on down on Saturday and every Saturday after that. Bring your bags, meet the makers and enjoy the bounty of your community. See you there!
