Farmers’ markets opening across Ottawa this weekend

As more locals and visitors enjoy the spring-like weather in Ottawa, farmers’ markets are coming back to kick off what vendors hope will be another busy year.

Farmers’ markets are kicking off this weekend just in time for Mother’s Day, with a warm spring day getting people out to shop locally.

Market managers say this is an exciting time of year for them and look forward to it every year.

The Carp Farmers Market is celebrating 35 years this season. Some shoppers and vendors say they have never missed a year.

“When you shop here, you’re definitely shopping local. Everyone here is within 100 kilometres of this very spot,” said Don Henderson, vice-president of the Carp Farmers Market Association.

The Metcalfe Farmers Market is marking its 32nd anniversary this season.

“It was packed. We had 50 plus local producers - ranging from fresh vegetables to fresh fruits to seedlings to crafters to prepared food. We’re super excited to start up our season this year,” said Reeann Slater, market manager for the Metcalfe Farmers Market.

For some families, it’s a yearly weekend tradition for them to shop for homegrown products.

“We’re super excited to be here today. It’s the perfect day for shopping - just before Mother’s Day and it’s beautiful out. We always love coming to the Carp Farmers Market,” said Samantha Warren, a regular attendee.

Warren has been attending the market for many years, saying there’s plenty of variety. She also likes to drop her daughter Maisie off to do some crafts while she shops.

“Shopping local is very, very important to us. We like to support our local neighbors. It’s also nice to know that the goods have not travelled across the world. They’re nice and fresh and largely organic. So that’s very important to me and my family,” said Warren.

The farmers’ market has something for the whole family – including crafts, petting zoos and agricultural workshops.

Vendors say they get to reconnect with customers.

“It’s the start of our income making season, so that’s always great,” says Marnie Chown, owner of Fair Sun Farm, at the Carp Farmers Market.