It's Earth Day. With the sunny, warm weather finally here (last few day aside), why not take some time this season to visit some of Ottawa’s numerous farmers’ markets? Shopping at local farmers’ markets supports the community, independent farmers, and you can rest assured that you are getting the tastiest, in-season food items. They are also a good place to check out if you are interested in organic, but still affordable, food and body products. Here are just a few of the markets we recommend you check out. Some are open year-round, while others are just about to open for the season.
Ottawa Farmers’ Market (Lansdowne Park, Byron Park & Ray Friel Center)
The Ottawa Farmers’ Market is the biggest, and arguably most well-known, farmers’ market in the National Capital. The market has three locations, making it easily accessible to people all over the city. This market runs year round, with its winter season running from January through April, set up inside the Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne, and the summer season running from May to November outside the Pavilion as well as at Byron Park and the Ray Friel Center. Goods offered at the market includes fruits, veggies, baked goods, meat, soup, preserves, honey and much more.
Main Farmers’ Markets (Main St.)
After re-locating temporarily to the grounds of the Museum of Nature while construction was going on, the Main Farmers’ Market is making its big return to Main Street this year! A community staple in the Old Ottawa East sector of the city, this market has so much to offer. It offers all the farmers’ market staples like fresh produce and meats, as well as an assortment of prepared foods like Korean bibimbap which is available at Raon Kitchen’s stand at the market.
Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market (Bank Street)
If you want strictly organic goods, this is the market for you. Located on Bank Street at the Canada Care Medical Center, the Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market features local vendors and farmers selling high-quality, organic products. This includes food items such as fruit, vegetables, meats and teas, as well as body and home products such as all-natural handmade soaps, skin care products, candles and incense. The market is open every Saturday all year round so it’s definitely worth checking out.
Ottawa Parkdale Market (Parkdale Avenue)
Established in 1924, the Ottawa Parkdale Market has been serving the community for over 90 years. What makes this market so great is that it runs from April to October, seven days a week, so you don’t even have to wait for the weekend to drop by. Along with fresh produce, the market also offers a variety of fresh flowers and plants, including pine trees and wreaths during the colder season. Definitely a great place to hit up if you’re looking for some new additions for your garden.
