Experience Kamloops Farmers' Markets | Local Food and Community
Farmers' markets in Kamloops provide a year-round connection between local producers and the community. These markets offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and a space where people meet the farmers who grow their food. The Kamloops Farmers' Market has grown from a small gathering in 1978 into a central part of the city's food system, supporting sustainable agriculture and small businesses.
History of Kamloops Farmers' Markets
The Kamloops Farmers' Market started in 1978 when four local farmers set up tables in a church basement. The idea came after a 1977 event that focused on world hunger and local food security. What began as a small effort quickly gained popularity. Over time, the market expanded to an outdoor location and now operates with over 100 vendors at peak season.
The market celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2023 by donating historical documents to the Kamloops Museum and Archives. These records highlight how the market evolved, responding to changes in farming, consumer demand, and local policies. Today, it remains one of British Columbia’s longest-running farmers' markets.
Market Schedule and Locations
Kamloops Farmers' Market operates three distinct markets, running through different seasons to provide continuous access to local products.
Saturday Market
Location: 200 block of St. Paul Street and the Stuart Wood schoolyard
Season: April to October
Hours: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
This is the largest market of the week, featuring a wide range of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The downtown location makes it accessible to residents and visitors.
Wednesday Market
Location: 400 block of Victoria Street, in front of the TNRD Library
Season: May to October
Hours: 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM
This midweek market is smaller than the Saturday market but offers many of the same products. Shoppers find fresh fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods in a convenient location for those working or living downtown.
Winter Market
Location: Mount Paul Community Food Centre, 140 Laburnum Street
Season: November to March
Hours: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
This market ensures year-round access to fresh and locally made food. Root vegetables, greenhouse produce, meats, and baked goods are available during colder months.
Annual Events at the Kamloops Farmers' Market
The Kamloops Farmers' Market hosts four key annual events that celebrate local agriculture and bring the community together.
Seedy Saturday
Seedy Saturday, launched in 2009 by the Friends of the New Victory Gardens, focuses on seed saving and local food production. Over the years, it has grown to include local seed growers, community organizations, and gardening suppliers. The event promotes sustainable gardening practices and offers opportunities to exchange heirloom seeds. The 2025 Seedy Saturday is scheduled for March 8th at the Mount Paul Community Food Centre.
Pollinator Festival
Started in 2022, the Pollinator Festival highlights the importance of pollinators in maintaining ecosystems. The event features educational workshops, interactive activities, and community initiatives that focus on bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The 2025 festival is planned for May 10th to 17th, with more details to be announced closer to the date.
Tomato Festival
The Tomato Festival, first organized in 2012 by the TRU Friends of the Garden, celebrates locally grown tomatoes. The event features community groups and activities that promote food security and encourage growing tomatoes at home. The 2025 festival will take place from September 6th through 13th, showcasing a variety of tomato-based foods and gardening tips from local experts.
Street Food Fare
Launched in 2019 as part of Kamloops' Culture Days, the Street Food Fare brings together local food vendors and culinary experts. The event highlights diverse street food options and showcases the creativity of local chefs. While it has been on hiatus due to the pandemic, organizers hope to bring it back in the near future.
These events reflect the Kamloops Farmers' Market's commitment to education, sustainability, and community engagement.
Other Farmers' Markets in the Area
In addition to the Kamloops Farmers' Market, the region hosts several other markets that connect local producers with the community.
Westsyde Community Market
The Westsyde Community Market operates from May to October in Westsyde Centennial Park. It focuses on providing fresh, locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts to residents of Kamloops' Westsyde neighborhood. This market is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong emphasis on supporting small-scale farmers and local artisans.
Sun Peaks Farmers' & Artisans' Market
Located in the mountain resort community of Sun Peaks, this seasonal Sunday Market runs from June to October and features fresh produce, local crafts, and specialty food items. Visitors can find organic vegetables, homemade preserves, and handwoven textiles while enjoying the scenic mountain backdrop. This market is a favorite among both locals and tourists exploring the area.
These markets, along with the Kamloops Farmers' Market, contribute to the local food economy and offer residents and visitors access to fresh, locally produced goods.
What Vendors Offer
Vendors at the Kamloops Farmers' Market sell products that reflect the agricultural diversity of the region. The market operates with a "Make, Bake, or Grow" policy, meaning vendors must produce what they sell.
Fresh Produce
Local farmers bring seasonal fruits and vegetables, including apples, berries, carrots, and leafy greens. The selection changes throughout the season, with early greens and asparagus in the spring, tomatoes and peppers in the summer, and squash and apples in the fall.
Meat and Dairy
Grass-fed beef, free-range poultry, and locally raised pork are available, along with eggs, cheese, and other dairy products from regional farms. Vendors often provide information on their farming practices, including ethical treatment of animals and sustainable grazing methods.
Prepared Foods
Bakers sell breads, pastries, and cookies made with local ingredients. Food vendors offer jams, sauces, and fermented products. Some stalls sell ready-to-eat meals, including soups, perogies, and international dishes.
Artisanal Goods
Soap, candles, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork are common finds. Many artisans use local materials, such as beeswax from Kamloops-area hives or wood from nearby forests.
Community and Cultural Impact
Kamloops Farmers' Market is more than a place to buy food. It serves as a gathering space where shoppers meet farmers, artisans, and neighbours.
Music and Entertainment
Local musicians perform during market hours, creating a lively atmosphere. Buskers and scheduled acts give emerging artists a platform to reach the community.
Educational Opportunities
Some vendors share knowledge about sustainable farming, gardening, and food preservation. Occasionally, workshops and cooking demonstrations are held to encourage healthy eating and food literacy.
Family Activities
Markets provide space for families to spend time together. The Saturday market is close to parks and playgrounds, allowing for a full morning outing. Some vendors cater specifically to children, offering activities or kid-friendly foods.
Economic and Food Security Benefits
Farmers' markets contribute to the local economy by providing small-scale farmers and artisans a direct way to sell their products. This keeps money within the region and supports businesses that might not thrive in a traditional retail setting.
Supporting Farmers and Small Businesses
Selling directly to customers helps farmers earn a higher percentage of the sales price compared to wholesaling. It also allows them to get feedback from customers and adjust their products accordingly. Many small businesses, including bakers, soap makers, and craft breweries, get their start at the market before expanding into larger operations.
Food Security and Accessibility
Kamloops Farmers' Market participates in the BC Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program, which provides coupons to lower-income families, pregnant individuals, and seniors. These coupons can be used to buy fresh produce, dairy, and meats, improving access to healthy food.
How to Get the Most Out of a Visit
Shoppers can make the most of their experience by planning ahead.
Arrive early. The best selection of produce and baked goods often sells out quickly.
Bring reusable bags. Some vendors provide paper bags, but a sturdy tote makes shopping easier.
Have cash on hand. Some vendors accept card payments, but cash is often preferred.
Ask questions. Vendors are knowledgeable about their products and happy to share details about farming methods, ingredients, and preparation tips.
The Role of the Market in Kamloops
Kamloops Farmers' Market plays a role in strengthening connections between farmers, artisans, and consumers. It supports the local economy, promotes sustainable agriculture, and provides a reliable source of fresh food year-round. As the market continues to grow, it remains a key part of the city's food landscape.
