May Long Market Time

Many of Alberta's farmers' markets will be opening up for the May long weekend! A lot of markets are open all year long, but the long weekend is traditionally the kick off to the season. "People are starting to gear up and get excited about getting back into the market," says Eileen Kotowich, Farmers Market Specialist.

There are lots of healthy choices and locally grown food products at farmers markets in the Calgary region. Kotowich says there are lots of other things to look at as well. "This time of year there are a lot of greenhouses that are bringing in their bedding plants so that's always a lot of fun," she explains. "You'll also see the tradition type stuff like eggs and meat, lots and lots of baking, great craft products, so a little bit of everything.  There are also greenhouse vegetables, but no garden vegetables yet."

The markets are a great opportunity for farmers to network and make more money.  "One of the big pushes with farmers markets is getting those farmers in there and getting them to sell there products directly to consumers," she says. "Because you are cutting out the middle man, the money that is coming to the farmer is typically a little bit more than they would receive if they were selling their products wholesale." It is a cash business, so farmers are able to get their money right away which is another big benefit.  

Kotowich says it's also a great opportunity for anybody who wants to try out a product idea. "If you think you have a great idea, you take it into the farmers' market and you will find out pretty quickly," she says. "People will give you the instant feedback you need."