With the arrival of spring comes the start of the 32nd year of the Sechelt Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market – the biggest one on the Coast.
With the current interest in supporting “Made in Canada” and local business, the Sechelt Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market is the perfect place to explore.
As a member of the British Columbia Farmers Market Association, all vendors are vetted to strictly adhere to the ethos of only allowing local (Sunshine Coast) artisan growers, bakers, makers, foragers and fishers. So instead of having to check every label for the maple leaf, shop at the market.
The vetting committee is delighted with the range of talent on the Coast. More than 100 vendors were approved with some rotating throughout the season.
A 2023 Economic Impact Study showed that the SFAM generated $2.3 million annually. By having only local vendors it means almost all of these dollars stay on the Sunshine Coast.
The provincial mandate for farmers markets is, firstly, to promote local farmers. They have the highest priority for admission though most don’t appear until later into the season with their produce. The market will continue to participate in the provincial Nutrition Coupon program accepting coupons for certain food products including produce, honey, baking and meat.
This year the market will be adding a food court by the totem poles at the school property featuring local hot food vendors, even more than last year.
Something else new is the end time. The market will now run from 9 a.m. and end at 2 p.m.
This season’s market starts April 5 and runs every Saturday, rain or shine, on Cowrie Street behind the library until Oct. 11. For more information contact [email protected].
