The West Kootenay EcoSociety will open the downtown Nelson local market next Wednesday on the 400 block of Baker Street for the second year.
The market will run each Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. until the end of September, offering a mix of local produce, plants, prepared foods, crafts, and art. The market requires that 80 per cent of each vendor’s wares are locally made.
The EcoSociety has hired a new market manager to oversee the market. Kim Klassen will work with vendors, business owners, and city agencies to ensure the market’s success.
“We’re thrilled with the response from vendors, the city, and businesses along Baker Street. The first market days are completely sold out, with over 30 vendors on the waiting list,” she said.
“Customers will really appreciate the quality and diversity of offerings at the market this year, especially in combination with Baker Street’s amazing retail selection.”
New for this year, Dick and Colleen DeJong, owners of Full Circle Café, will offer fresh-smoked local meat, including whole smoked chickens.
Eggs and cheese will also be available to complement seasonal fruits and vegetables from the region.
Crafts will include hand-made wooden drums and toys, locally made clothing and jewelry, and an array of body and home care products.
The West Kootenay EcoSociety operates the downtown market as a project to promote local food security, relocalization of our economy and to create a meeting place for arts, culture and community networking.
The EcoSociety also runs the Cottonwood Community Market at Cottonwood Falls Park — which runs every Saturday through the summer and features live music and local artisans — and Market Fest, the monthly Friday night street festivals.
