With spring blooming, annual farmers’ markets in the West Shore are gearing up for another busy season.
This Mother’s Day weekend marks the opening of the Metchosin and Goldstream farmers markets, which run every weekend – rain or shine – until October. The Metchosin Farmers’ Market, which takes place at the municipal grounds on Happy Valley Road, features about 40 vendors selling a variety of fresh produce, cider, wine, and baked goods, as well as a number of local artisans. Returning favourites include Victoria Patchwork, Sunrise Cottage Farm, Earthly Delights, Southwind Honey, and Bits and Bobs.
Jacqui Anderson, president of the market’s board, said each year the market has seen an increase in both the number of vendors and residents who come from across the region.
“We’ve seen an increase in about 10 per cent in vendors and customers. We saw a big increase last year compared to the previous year. We’re increasing every year,” she said.
“It’s a Sunday, I think they like the atmosphere of the market. You can come and have your meal, people do their shopping, they sit down at the picnic tables and listen to the music. It’s a chill out day.”
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Organizers of the Goldstream Farmers Market are also excited about the upcoming opening weekend.
This year’s market, which takes place at Veterans Memorial Park in Langford, includes more than 49 vendors – 12 of whom are farmers, and a number of other artisans selling soap, pottery, jewelry and hats.
Returning vendors include Sea Bluff Farm, Littler Farms, Silver Rill Corn and JD Sunshine Jams. The market also includes a registered masseuse, face painting for kids and food vendors.
“I can’t wait. We start this process way back in January … We have more signed up farmers this year than ever before,” said Anthony Obersteller, president of the Goldstream Farmers Market Society.
“As more newcomers come to Langford, like people living in Westhills and the surrounding areas, we do see new people showing up.”
Both markets will have gifts on hand for mothers for the opening weekend, and will feature live music every weekend.
The Goldstream Farmers Market runs on Saturdays, beginning May 12 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., and free parking is located across the street.
The Metchosin Farmers’ Market runs on Sundays, beginning May 13 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.