Nothing’s sweeter than a fresh red tomato or crisp carrot from your own backyard but the produce at Airdrie Farmer’s Market is the next best thing. If your tastes prefer savoury flavours, there are plenty of options at the market as well, including meats, cheeses and perogies.
Airdrie has had a version of a fresh food market since the 1970s in various locations but the outdoor market as you see it now, on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 7 pm at Plainsmen Arena, has operated since 2009.
“Fresh potatoes, greenhouse produce, carrots, cherries, peaches…. you name it we have it!” says Candice Kolson, owner and manager of the Airdrie Farmers Market.
“Through the season we see everything! From bakers, farms, crafters, jewelry, clothing, toys, beer/wine/mead from Alberta-based facilities and cooks with jams, charcuterie, jerky, greenhouses, field produce, and so much more.”
There is room for more than 120 vendors and organizers rotate through over 150 different vendors each year.
“We always have new crafters and food each year,” says Kolson.
“Twisted Bitters, Hearty Bakes, Sock Cards, Grey Owl Meadery and new and exciting food trucks like locals Yummingz Catering are some of the new ones this year.”
The Dash & Dine Food trucks and top-quality vendors attract between 1,500 and 2,00 visitors each week.
“We see a lot of people who want to support small business and have a direct line to the owners and makers of their products,” says Kolson.
“The more often you come and check out the market or support the businesses, the more the market will grow and thrive. You may also see something different every week, so you don’t want to miss out!”
Regular food trucks where families can grab a delicious bite to eat while they shop (or to take home after their visit to the market) include Calgary Mini Donuts, Family Fry Guy, Happy Fish, Waffles & Chix, Dumpling Hero, Gustoso Italian, Smoke Show, Vasili’s, and many more. There are six food trucks to choose from every week.
“The market averages 85 to 90 percent of items that are make/bake/grow,” says Kolson.
“You buy directly from farmers at the Airdrie Farmers Market.”
Airdrie Famers Market also partners with local yoga studios or fitness studios throughout the summer to run free events in the park. Check @airdriefarmersmarket on Instagram for dates and times.
Learn more and see a full list of vendors at airdriefarmersmarket.com.
