By now, we all know the benefits of eating local--it keeps our carbon footprint low, helps the environment and supports our local growers and farmers. But there's a great foodie benefit too: Fresher fruits and vegetables burst with greater flavour than their flown-in counterparts.
Vancouver Farmers Markets have been flourishing in the city since their debut in 1995. Along with produce and plants, you'll also find crafts, prepared food, farm-raised meats and local seafood.
1. Vancouver Farmers Markets - Summer & Fall/Winter
Photo by Dana Lynch
The eponymous Vancouver Farmers Markets are organized by a society of local farmers markets. There are five Vancouver Farmers Markets open in summer, and one open through fall/winter.
Summer Vancouver Farmers Markets:
Fall/Winter Vancouver Farmers Market:
2. Oak Street Farmers Market - Summer/Early Fall
Photo by Dana Lynch
The Oak Street Farmers Market is the only Metro Vancouver farmers market to sell only organic produce and meat.
3. Granville Island Farmers Market - Summer/Early Fall
Photo Courtesy of granvilleisland.com
Vancouver's oldest farmers market opens for summer right next to the Granville Island Public Market (where you can find local produce/meats/seafood year-round).
4. Shangri-La Farmers Market - Summer
Image Courtesy of Shangri-La
An atypical "luxury" farmers market organized by the Shangri-La Hotel, this downtown farmers market specializes in local, gourmet prepared foods.
Shangri-La Farmers Market (map): Alternate Sundays (twice monthly), May 18 - September 22, 2013
