The farmers market at the PNE is turning out to be a community hub, and Vancouver Farmers Market’s operation manager says there are plans to continue the success.
According to Roberta LaQuaglia, Vancouver Farmers Market, which has events across the city, launched a nine-week trial at the PNE this winter. Due to the positive feedback and demand, the market is back, every Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until April 26. The market is located near the Hastings Skatepark on Renfrew, between the PNE Forum and the Agrodome.
Erin Bett, co-farmer of Klippers Organic Acres, isn’t surprised with the markets success. “The farmers’ market is an extension of the agriculture system and people support it,” she said.
Similar to last year, alcohol sales return to the Hastings Park market. “Vendors have a licence to give samples at the booths,” LaQuaglia said. “People can’t walk around with open bottles. Only sales of closed bottles are allowed. There’s no consumption on site.”
“It’s more of a liquor store atmosphere,” she added.
According to LaQuaglia, the market provides an opportunity for local distillers to showcase their wares, which aren’t always found in stores. “People love the convenience and they’re learning about new brands that are unheard of.”
Clair MacGougan, executive director at Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre, says the market brings people out to meet their neighbours.
“The area has a diverse population, especially with the Asian population rising,” MacGougan said. “A lot of Chinese people, Cantonese and Mandarin.”
The East Side market is also attracting people from outside of Vancouver.
“A lot of customers are from North Vancouver and Burnaby. Just over the bridge. They make a stop here before they head home,” said Bett. “[The market] fills a gap on accessibility for local fresh produce, especially at this time of year.”
The 31-year-old vendor also has a booth at the well-established farmer’s market at Nat Bailey Stadium. In comparison, she says the Hastings Park is “mellow.”
Visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere, Bett said. “People have the time to chat with the vendors. With the great gathering space, they can sit and eat. Make a day of it. There’s more trees here and seating.”
While there is parking available, MacGougan says the public can bring their bikes to HSCPC’s booth for free bike engraving.
There are volunteers who will engrave drivers’ licence numbers onto bikes on April 5 and 26.
There are currently 10 farmers’ markets in Vancouver. To locate the closest one in your neighbourhood, visit eatlocal.org.
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