With autumn already here, and the weather only getting colder, harvesting season is starting to slow down. Because the cold weather is upon us, the farmers’ markets held outside are coming to an end for the season.
Farmers’ Markets are an essential to most of the communities across the city of Toronto. When shopping for produce, something that is kept in mind is the freshness of the items that are being purchased. At these markets, the farmers bring just that, fresh finds.
But, it’s not just food that is being brought to the people. There’s community, connections, and engagement happening in these markets.
COMMUNITY, CONNECTION, and ENGAGEMENT
Every Tuesday, at the Trinity Bellwoods Farmers’ Market located in the west of downtown Toronto, families, friends, and even pets gather together from 3 p.m to 7 p.m. Live jazz music is being played, filling the atmosphere with joyous and energetic ambience while people walk from vendor to vendor, purchasing fresh produce, baked goods, and flowers.
These are amongst the most common items that could be found at the markets across the city.
At the Underpass farmers’ market, located in the east end of downtown, you would see similar community engagement occurring. Music being played, locals wandering around, and a variety of vendors selling baked goods, produce, and food.
Logan Dunn, the owner of Bad Attitude Bread, was one of the vendors at the Underpass Market selling an assortment of all vegan baked goods. The best part about doing that? Getting to know the community and affiliating with the people.
Consumers not only get to shop local and fresh, they are able to unite with one another over their love of food. And just as important , people have the opportunity to directly connect with their farmers and local businesses.
Connecting with the farmers is connecting with food. An educational aspect of these markets is getting to know all about the food you consume, like how it’s grown, where it comes from, and what you can use the products for. As well as having any questions you may have answered by your farmers.
FishTree Farms is one of the local farmers here in Toronto, and its manager Lily, sells Vietnamese herbs, vegetables, and not so common vegetables like black garlic and loofa. Things you wouldn’t find in your average grocery store. FishTree Farms was a vendor at the Trinity Bellwoods Farmers Market this year.
Although the farmers’ markets held outdoors are closing, there are those that are held all-year round. Check out the list below to see which ones are open or visit Toronto.ca
St. Lawrence Farmers’ Market – Sundays from 5 a.m to 3 p.m
Allan Gardens -Saturdays from 10 a.m to 2 p.m
Evergreen Brick Works – Saturdays from 9 a.m to 1 p.m
Purspective 
Leave a comment