In celebration of the 10th Cranbrook Farmer’s Market season, expect a vibrant and busy year showcasing the narratives, talents and treasures of our region

At 9 a.m. on June 23 the market bell will echo through the streets of downtown Cranbrook once more, marking the official kick-off of the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market 10th outdoor season in our community.

It will run until 1 p.m at 10th Avenue South by Rotary Park, downtown Cranbrook.

Throughout the outdoor season, the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market will host a variety of performers, musicians and fun activities for the whole family. This takes place alongside a diverse array of local food producers, growers and artisans offering their hand-crafted, home-made, locally-grown and produced items.

“The Cranbrook Farmer’s Market has become so much more than a place to shop,” said Livia Lara, market manager. “It’s a place to connect with friends, to celebrate local business and farming, and to stroll with no set agenda. It is a place to learn things and meet people. The market provides an opportunity to surround yourself in Kootenay culture and enjoy the abundance of flavours, textures and talents it has given root to.”

A local classic rock band, The Testers, will be playing at the June 23 farmer’s market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The Testers are made up of Cranbrook residents Mark Terai, Andrew Rutledge and David Standing. Peerless bass player Dave Berger hails from Marysville and the newest bandmate Chris The Candyman Moon calls Kimberley home. The performance is sponsored by Spring Honda.

There will also be a bouncy castle available for kids, sponsored by Baker Hill Dental.

The Cranbrook Farmer’s Market started more than a decade ago as an initiative of the Cranbrook Food Action Committee. Thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers, as well as a grant from Columbia Basin Trust, the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market Society held its first market July 4, 2009. Its mission to support local food and craft producers, promote East Kootenay agriculture, and provide a place for the community to gather.

“On average there are between 42-50 vendors a week,” said Lara. “This year, we celebrate the market’s past, present, and future. Hope to see you there.”

According to a market assessment conducted in August 2017, the impact of the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market amounts to approximately $1.6 million annually. An estimated 2,220 customers visited each market, spending an average of $25.24 at summer and fall markets. Additionally, 78 per cent of market visitors also spent money in the same day at other downtown businesses.

In 2012, Cranbrook was accepted into a pilot coupon program to benefit low-income families, single mothers, seniors, and at-risk youth. In conjunction with the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program Fund and local Community Connections, the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market began providing $15 vouchers to be exchanged for fresh produce and locally-made foods to qualifying applicants. Last year, this amounted to over 5,400 coupons worth $16,200 being distributed throughout the community.

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