By Ian Holmes

Thousands of People to attend Parksville Market

Jun 15, 2016 | 11:07 AM

It’s seen as a springboard to the tourist season that draws thousands of people to Parksville.

The 13th annual Summer by the Sea Street Market debuted on Tuesday night.

160 vendors take over a closed-down Craig Street and a portion of Hirst Avenue Tuesday evenings from 6:00-9:00 through the end of August

Street Market manager Cathy Hutcheson says a wide range of mainly Vancouver Island produced goods are available at this unique market.

“Also coincides well with Beach Fest. I think once people start coming to this area to visit and they experience it once, there is nothing else on the Island like it to this extent, its become a thing to come see in Parksville,” Hutcheson said.

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Hutcheson points out that between 1,500 and 3,000 people take in the Summer by the Sea Street Market on any given week.

She says the original goal of drawing people to downtown Parksville and promoting businesses in the area is holding true.

“Its grown to the extent that sometimes it may look like we’ve completely invaded, but many of the merchants have said that the Craig Street Market has benefited their business by the crowds in, just bringing awareness to their business.”

Hutcheson says the market is made up of food booths, crafts, clothing and accessories.