With an area comprising of over 1 million square kilometers it probably comes as no surprise that Ontario has a large farming community. At the epicenter of these farming communities is the farmers market. It may also come as no surprise that farmers markets in Ontario are booming and it’s no wonder when you consider that they offer organic produce using healthy farming practices and are a great source of food which is actually good for you.
If you are planning a visit, then here are some of the finest farmers markets on offer in the Ontario area
St Jacobs Farmers Market
This is one of the largest farmers markets in Canada and is open all year round. It has over 100 food and craft vendors selling a variety of local home grown organic produce. St Jacobs is situated in the Waterloo area of Western Ontario and is home to over 4,000 Old Order Mennonites who farm the surrounding areas using organic methods.
Cambridge farmers market
This market was established way back in 1830 and as a result is the third oldest market in Canada. It has remained at the same venue since then and has maintained its status as a true ‘farmers market’. If you are looking for organic meats, organic fruit and vegetables or general organic produce, you can find it here. All the vendors reside within 100 kms of the venue giving this market a truly local flavor. With close to 100 stalls it is constantly ranked in the country’s top ten markets to visit.
Carp farmers market
Carp is one of the largest producer based farmers markets in eastern Ontario and offers a wide selection of of seriously great organic foods. Whether it be the best locally produced maple syrup, or some of the finest organic vegetables that you will see, it is well worth a visit. They also hold an annual garlic festival which can draw crowds of up to 3,500 people.
This is merely a selection of some of the best farmers markets that Ontario has to offer. The main reason that shoppers tend to really love these markets is because they can purchase first class products directly from the person who has produced them. This means that when it comes to food, the purchaser doesn’t have to worry about any additives or preservatives contained within. The producer can answer any questions about the product and they can be rest assured that they are buying healthy produce.
There is no getting away from the fact that farmers markets are also good for the community as a whole. They bring people together in a way like no other and will attract extra business for restaurants and stores in the surrounding areas. Finally the farmers love them because it gives them a way of connecting with consumers who are willing to buy healthy organic produce. On top of this, it can be an important source of income for the farmer, who might otherwise struggle.
Given the sense of heritage, community and support, that farmers markets bring to Ontario is it any wonder that we love them so?