Vendors supplying everything from fresh produce to baked goods and hot food will be at the Cedar Farmers Market on Sunday, May 12 for the first event of the year. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

back in business

Returning Cedar Farmers Market promising ‘something new and exciting to check out’

May 12, 2024 | 5:17 AM

NANAIMO — One of the largest markets on Vancouver Island returns for another summer season.

Gates open at the Cedar Farmer’s Market on Sunday, May 12, with over 100 vendors on hand between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with thousands expected at the field behind the former Woodbank Elementary School on Woobank Rd.

Market executive director Kate Poirier told NanaimoNewsNOW everything from farm fresh produce to baked goods, artwork, sculptures and dog treats will be on offer.

“We have new food trucks, we have a new ice cream truck and we have a bunch of new artists who are joining us on different weekends. There’ll definitely be something new and exciting to check out, but also the strong favourites people look forward to and come to see each weekend.”

Food trucks will keep everyone fed and happy, while live music on the main stage provides a great ambiance. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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The entire season is already booked up for businesses selling their products.

Poirier said the popularity of the market makes it so space is effectively sold out mid-winter for the season ahead.

Roughly two-thirds of the vendors are returning from last season and will be familiar to market regulars, while the remainder are new.

A main focus in recent years has been adding value to the market experience by enhancing activities available for children and families.

“We have a new kids booth that we started last year but we actually have a little more staff for it this year so we might see new arts activities, building and constructing different art things, maybe some rock painting. Any type of educational groups we can bring in, we are doing this year.”

Poirier added the market’s main stage is also proving to be very popular, with live music throughout the entire four hours.

“We have really wonderful music all season long. We have a slew of different musicians and the whole season is already booked. I think this is a music destination.”

The market runs every Sunday from Mother’s Day to the last Sunday in October from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Businesses actually open at 9:30 a.m. to provide a quieter and calmer shopping opportunity for seniors or those with sensory challenges.

Porier said they’re also planning their typical Christmas-themed market in November as well as some other potential opportunities in the cooler months.

Over 2,000 people are expected at the first Cedar Farmers Market of the year. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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