Here at Local Loves Nanaimo, we love farmer’s markets, and it seems like everyone we talk to these days does too! There were so many farmer’s markets happening all over Vancouver Island this summer and especially Nanaimo. Luckily, for those people who either worked all summer or hid in their houses playing video games, crops keep growing all year round and provide luscious fruits and veggies well into the fall. The Downtown Farmer’s Market, the Bowen Road Farmer’s Market, the Cedar Farmer’s Market and the Lantzville Farmer’s Market are all open well into October. Along with fruits and veggies, Nanaimo Farmer’s Markets also boast crafts, baking, coffee, jam, soaps, and so much more!

Check out the markets that are open into the fall in and around Nanaimo:

The Downtown Farmer’s Market is open Fridays until October 11th, 10 AM until 2 PM. It is located downtown above the harbourfront walkway on the Plaza. There is live music, yummy food, crafts, and artisans.  Unfortunately, its season has just ended for this year, but be sure to check it out when it re-opens next spring.

The Bowen Road Farmer’s Market is open Wednesday until October 30th, 4 PM until 6:30 PM. The Bowen Road Farmers Market is held at Beban Park. It is abundant with fresh fruits, veggies and everything that is grown in and around Nanaimo! Come early to fill your basket with nutritious and local goodies.

Cedar Farmer’s Market is open Sundays until October 27th, 10 AM until 2 PM. The Cedar Farmer’s Market is on the grounds of the Crow and Gate Pub. This market attracts vendors from all over the area and holds surprises around every booth. There is lots of food, lots of art, lots of fun and so much more at this market!

The Lantzville Farmer’s Market is open Sundays until October 27th, 1:30 PM until 4:30 PM. The Lantzville Farmer’s Market brings local farmers and growers to you! There is also lots of amazing baking, crafts, coffee, and more! Go to shop and then learn an interesting way to prepare your food while you chat with the local growers!

It is so exciting that these farmer’s markets are open into October because the fall brings amazing crops! The fall brings squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, cucumbers, berries, and so much more! I encourage everyone who hasn’t experienced a Nanaimo Farmer’s Market to do so! Not only is eating local and organic food healthy, farmers markets are integral in the culture and community of Nanaimo and that includes YOU!

Sarah and Sean
Local Loves Nanaimo

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