WELCOME TO SPRING! I know it’s a bit early, but spring, always an exciting season, feels so much more exciting this year after a winter of being cooped up inside. I’m dreaming of all the warm-weather activities that we can safely participate in this year, and at the top of that list is shopping at farmer’s markets in the city. Farmer’s markets are not only a COVID-approved activity (buying necessities, outside), but they are also a way for us to catch up with neighbours while supporting local businesses. Here are our favourite farmer’s markets in the West End of Toronto. There are plenty of great markets in the East End too, but that is for another post!
Sorauren Farmer’s Market
Not only does this market have a vast and diverse list of vendors, but it is also in a fantastic park. You can grab your groceries for the week, eat lunch, pack a picnic and play soccer, all at the same place. Every Monday from 3-7 PM.
The Junction Farmer’s Market
This market is small but mighty. It features mostly small scale producers with awe-inspiring attention to quality. If you want the sweetest strawberry, the most pungent mushroom or the juiciest apple, this is your place to go. It’s also right on Dundas, so you have access to great restaurants and stores as you enjoy the market. It runs from 9-11 am every Saturday from spring to fall.
Dufferin Grove Farmer’s Market
This market is fully organic and located on a very accessible spot in the city (across from the Dufferin Mall). However, for safety concerns, this market is shut down during COVID. They offer virtual shopping and contactless pickup or delivery from all their vendors in the meantime. Talk about an adaptive flex! The food is delicious, and the vendors put a lot of care into their products.
Montgomery INN
This is quite a small market in Etobicoke. In an area that is otherwise pretty free of farmer’s markets, this one has a huge heart and a large community following. Check it out and take a look at the historic INN while you are there.
Port Credit Farmer’s Market
This farmer’s market is technically in Mississauga, but Port Credit is one of Mississauga’s most charming places with a small-town feeling right on the lake. Every Saturday morning from June to October, this large parking lot is taken over by produce, honey, bakery and samosa stalls. Grab enough for your lunch and wander down to the waterfront to enjoy a picnic.
Here’s to farmer’s market season! We are so ready for this. Please send us your favourite community markets so we can spend the season touring them.
As always, stay safe. — Robyn Vander Vennen, The Kim Kehoe Team.
