The Carp Farmers’ Market kicked off the 2026 season with its annual Easter-themed market that included over 80 local vendors this long weekend. Despite some rain in the forecast, families took the opportunity to get fresh produce, gifts, maple syrup, candles and enjoy live music. “All our products are made locally, not just within Ontario, Canada, but also locally,” says David Sharpley, president of the Carp Farmers Market. The regular market starts May 9 and runs every Saturday until November. “It’s our first year coming. We’re starting our weekend here and then we’re going to hang out with some family, decorate some cookies and eat cookies,” said Leanne Chevrier, who was attending the Easter Market. Over at the Nepean Sportsplex, the Eastern Ontario Craft and Gift Easter Market had 95 vendors. “We’ve got a little bit of everything,” says Bonny Bunda, organizer of the market. “It’s our first spring craft market and this is really fun. It’s refreshing,” says Laura Rohde. Among the local vendors, Feel the Glow of Love was raising money for an upcoming event for CHEO – selling raffle tickets for a Mother’s Day dream basket. “Currently, there’s over $5,000 in the Mother’s Day dream basket. It keeps growing and growing and growing every single day,” says Drew Labelle, organizer of the fundraiser. The Mother’s Day fundraiser takes place on May 9 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. All proceeds from that event support CHEO Foundation.
