FILE PHOTO - The 45th Kamloops Regional Farmers' Market opens on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

(SHELBY THEVENOT / iNFOnews.ca)

The return of outdoor farmers' markets is a sure and pleasing sign summer is on its way.

The Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market outdoor season starts on Saturday, April 23, for the 45th year in a row.

The traditional and much enjoyed market on St. Paul Street is known for its bustling hive of shade tents, shoppers, pets on leashes, and bright local produce and products made from locally sourced ingredients.

This year is expected to be as vibrant as ever, and with a much-needed upgrade added. 

“We are excited to announce that we are successful in sourcing funding for an accessibility ramp to improve access to the Stuart Wood schoolyard via the middle gate in the market area,” events coordinator Deanna Hurstfield said in a media release. “It has long been a barrier to those using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, strollers and wagons in accessing that area of the market.”

READ MORE: Kamloops bands to battle it out downtown

Provincial COVID protocols will be followed to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

“Currently, masks are not required but we encourage everyone to do what feels safest for them including wearing a mask if they feel the need,” Hurstfield said. “We ask that everyone respect other people’s choices.”

Market managers are expecting a strong showing of vendors this year from all the major vendor categories being farmers, prepared food makers, artisans and crafters. All products are made, baked or grown by vendors within the province and a majority within a 100 kilometre radius of Kamloops.

Winter greens, preserves, honey, plants, flowers and baking are just a few of the many things the market has to offer.

“This last winter and as well as the last couple of years continue to show us the importance of having a resilient local food system,” Hurstfield said. “Come out and support local farmers, food producers, and creative makers and help create a more resilient food system for our region.”

READ MORE: How cities like Sicamous and Kelowna are working toward a greener future

The farmers' market runs on St. Paul Street, between 2 and 3 Avenues from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday, rain or shine until Oct. 29.

The midweek markets on Wednesdays are located in the 400 block of Victoria Street and will start, May 4, opening at 8 a.m. and closing at 2 p.m.

For more information about the Kamloops Farmers' Market click here.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Shannon Ainslie or call 250-819-6089 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above. 

News from © iNFOnews, 2022