Locally grown produce, prepared foods and artisan crafts will be on offer this summer at the Coquitlam Farmers Market, which is set to kick off its 23rd year next month.
Between May and October, vendors will be setting up at the Dogwood Pavilion on Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. The new season will be marked with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 5.
More than 60 vendors participate each week, attracting thousands of shoppers keen to support small businesses and to learn more about local food production.
Monthly hands-on cooking demonstrations and gardening workshops will take place at the market, as well as Coffee with Councillors, which gives people a chance to meet and chat with their elected city officials.
The Power of Produce program will also be returning this year, giving young people an opportunity to learn how to grow and cook their own food.
"Youth are the next generation of shoppers and consumers," said Tabitha McLoughlin, the executive director of the Coquitlam Farmers Market, noting 200 school-aged children participated in the 25-week initiative last year. "This program is providing them with educational and learning opportunities that will benefit them and the community into the future. It's a really fun and empowering way to engage with kids at the market."
The Coquitlam Farmers Market started as a Community Economic Development project by SFU students in 1996 and has been a gathering place for local crafters, bakers and farmers ever since.
The market begins May 5 and will continue each Sunday until Oct. 27 in the parking lot at Dogwood Pavilion (624 Poirier St.). Parking is available across the street at Centennial secondary.
For more information go to www.makebakegrow.com.
gmckenna@tricitynews.com
@gmckennaTC
