T

he Southlands Tsawwassen Farmers’ Market is about the food, but it’s also about so much more than that.

This flagship event, which launched its second season in June 2022 with a record number of merchants, offers a true sense of community and camaraderie. As shoppers meander from stall to stall gathering up their weekly wares, young and old enjoy live music and chat with friends and neighbours.

More than 46 independent vendors—selling fresh produce, homemade perogies, plant-based food specialties, bouquets of flowers, and so much more—are taking part. From savouring produce at the peak of freshness to meeting the people who grow your food, there are countless reasons to visit (which you can do every Saturday from now until December 17). The lively fair has fast become more than an average shopping opportunity for locals—it’s also a great place to purchase seasonal favourites, including artisan goods, gourmet sauces, honey, and preserves, all while championing organic, sustainably-farmed, local produce.

Southlands resident Melissa Beaupre came with her young daughter to purchase organic dog treats, produce, and random snacks. “We also like to have lunch here from one of the food trucks,” says Beaupre. “Seeing the market grow, and seeing more locals, is a good thing for the community.”

She isn’t alone. Several shoppers echoed her sentiments, including Tsawwassen local John Franks. “We came twice last year and I suspect we will come more frequently now,” says Franks, who came to the market with his chocolate labrador. “There is such variety, a great diversity of offerings. It’s easy to spend money here.”

An amazing and diverse array of produce that we don’t often see in our average supermarkets is another reason to visit: red carrots, rainbows of heirloom tomatoes, and several varieties of mushrooms abound. This is a wonderful, vibrant, and delicious opportunity to experience the biodiversity and bounty of our region.