The Squamish Farmer's Market returns Saturday May 16 with more mouthwatering produce and other goodies, along with crafts, jewelry and entertainment.
Vendors' booths will dot the parking lot next to Pavilion Park in downtown Squamish for its fourth year in two week's time, and Squamish Farmer's Market Association member Stefan Butler wants locals to know the opportunity to buy fresh produce and local handmade edibles and crafts will only increase if interest is shown.
"A lot of vendors can see the potential, it's just a matter now of getting people to come," said Butler. "They're going to try it this year, and if they see it's catching on, they're going to stick with it, and it's just going to attract other vendors."
The produce supply will expand this year with a commitment from two Pemberton farmers: the new organic supplier Glacier Cap and renown potato growers Helmers. Also new is Paradise Valley's bio-dynamic C-Dar Farm, offering garden vegetables and garlic using llama, cow and horse compost.
Butler's own Paradise Valley business, Good Time Farm, has leafy greens such as kale and Swiss chard on hand, with broccoli almost ready for harvesting.
"Every year just enables us to concentrate more on planting," said Butler of his selection. "So this year we'll definitely have way more of a product, and then next year we'll just get better and so on."
Fraser Valley suppliers will also be on hand with a wider selection of fruit along with a seasonal variety of vegetables.
Market customers will also notice a return of old homemade favourites, such as pastries, pickled foods, honey, maple syrup and even treats for dogs.
If locals follow the trend seen throughout North America, the Squamish Farmer's Market should have no problems.
"Farmer's markets right now are the fastest growing grocery chains," said Butler. "Markets are becoming extremely popular."
The market opens May 16 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and every subsequent Saturday until the fall.
