The Okanagan Valley is buzzing with farmers' markets, offering the freshest produce, homemade baked goods, and unique handmade crafts. Here’s a guide to some of the top markets near Summerland, ensuring you get the best of what the region has to offer.
Penticton Farmers Market
Since its inception in 1991, the Penticton Farmers' Market has become a cornerstone of the community. Initially held in Gyro Park with just a handful of vendors, the market was founded on the principles of "make it, bake it, grow it." This vision has driven its growth and success over the years. Today, the market boasts over 90 vendor stalls each market day, offering a diverse array of locally-produced goods. Open every Saturday from mid-April to the end of October from 8:30 am to 1 pm o 100 Block of Main St, the market showcases the best of Penticton’s local produce and crafts.
Peachland Farmers and Crafters Market
Known as “the little market that cares,” the Peachland Farmers and Crafters Market operates on Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm in Heritage Park on Beach Avenue starting in May. This market offers offers unique crafts, arts, and edibles, including fresh, colourful fruits and vegetables, natural cosmetics, aromatic baked goods, and handmade artisan products. The market also includes live music from local musicians and a children's play area, face painting, and ice cream treats, making it a perfect family outing.
Kelowna Farmers and Crafters Market
Kelowna hosts the largest market in the area, running on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm from April to October in their new location at the Landmark District. You can find food and produce, baked goods and bread, homemade sauces, kombucha, unique gifts, natural soaps and beauty products, homemade clothing, jewellery, eclectic art, pottery and concession stands. Additionally there is a satellite market open on Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm in Kerry Park, providing an additional shopping opportunity. This market is renowned for its wide array of vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and crafts.
Westbank Farmers Market
The Westbank Farmers Market opens every Saturday from June to September from 9 am to 1 pm at the Westridge Shopping Centre. This market brings together growers, bakers, food artisans, and crafters, offering a wide variety of fresh local produce, homemade baked goods, and unique handmade crafts.
Conclusion
Farmers' markets in the Okanagan Valley are more than just places to buy fresh produce; they are community hubs that bring people together. Whether you’re in Penticton, Summerland, Peachland, Kelowna, or West Kelowna, each market offers a unique slice of local life, full of flavour and character. Plan your visit to these markets to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying the best the region has to offer.
