Another fine day at Edmonton's Downtown Farmers' Market

The third Saturday of the season turned out to be brilliant--only a slight chill and a bit of wind at least on the north block, then some rain close to closing. We've had a fantastic season so far both in weather and turn out of the crowds. Even our opening day was gorgeous--a first, I think, since 2004 when we first opened outdoors on 104th Street (to snow and sleet!!).

Last year, I thought the City Market had turned a corner but things are still getting better and better. This year, it's really hitting it's stride. I think there's a consistently great array of vendors and a consistently large, enthusiastic crowd of shoppers. I'd love to hear from people who shop there what they think of it! Where are the gaps? What can be improved.

As a vendor, I can feel how the community support and buy-in is growing--probably as more folks move downtown and as more folks from other parts of the city become aware of it. The volunteer board that governs the association that governs the market has really got it together. I really felt for them last year as crisis after crisis emerged. They could only react to situations instead of being able to plan and initiate projects proactively. This year, I hope, things are different for them--already the branding of the market is shining through (an updated take on the original rooster and a great tagline, for one: "Local flavour; urban touch" and some great merchandise (cool bags!). It's a great farmers' market and if you haven't checked it out, you should!

A great variety of people turned up today including my cousin Andrea, husband Kelly and lovely baby Elisabeth. We'll dress her up in a bee suit the next time she comes to the market. I'm always happy to see familiar faces and new faces too. Interesting moments today included a walkthrough by members of the newly-minted Edmonton Chapter of the Guardian Angels, a crew of firefighters (off-duty....), a wedding party after closing--taking pix in the parking lot (?) next door, and it FANTASTIC to see three chefs from Original Fare restaurants wearing their chef jackets while shopping. What a fantastic way to build their restaurant's profile, the Downtown Farmers' Market profile, and the local food movement!