The Powell River Farmers’ Market is nestled in a grove of cedar trees. Line-ups begin at favourite vendors before the bell rings. At the bandshell, which could be confused for a structure out of Tolkein’s Hobbiton, sign-up has begun for the open stage. The Exhibition Grounds are the permanent home of the Farmers’ Market, which makes the market unique and has allowed vendors to feel at home in their booths. Many have their own hand painted signage.
Held on the traditional territory of the Tla’amin Nation, the variety of music, produce, food vendors, and craftspeople highlight the varied communities that call the qathet region home. From May to September, the Farmers’ Market runs on both Saturdays and Sundays, offering a different experience on each day. Because the Sunday market runs year-round — complete with a train for locomotive enthusiasts of all ages — it draws a big crowd.
qathet residents visit the Sunday market to have lunch with friends or to stock up on baked goods from a beloved market fixture Cottage Creek Bakery or produce, eggs and handmade soap from vendors like Myrtle Point Heritage Farm. Saturdays have a slower, spacious feel. Buckets of fresh cut flowers and mounds of red and yellow tomatoes remind me of the fullness of summer and the vivid colours the hot months bring.
For food lovers traveling through qathet, the Sunday market cannot be missed. Some of the best, and most creative dishes in town are being served up at the Powell River Farmers’ Market. In mid-August, when I visited, Dump Run Provisions was serving up two kinds of dumplings (wild mushroom or pork and onion) with add-ons of house-made garlic dill kraut, sweet pickles, and fried onions. They also had lamb tostadas, a spicy bean salad, and a watermelon salad (which I devoured, slopping the tangy dressing on myself). The watermelon salad featured all local produce including zucchinis, onion, and of course, the watermelon itself. The dumplings are steamed to order.
One stall over was qathet provisions, where they were rolling out and baking pitas for a stuffed pita showcasing local veggies and greens. I ordered a baguette sandwich with nduja from another Farmers’ market vendor, Brut Charcuterie.
Farmers’ markets are a special way to get a taste of a community. Kids perform their favourite songs on stage, while moms gather sipping coffee made near by in a food truck, and kids play tag or build sandcastles in a play area.
Even if you manage to come away from the Powell River Farmers’ Market without spending a penny, you’ll be sure to make it a destination every time you return to the Sunshine Coast.