Calgary has plenty of options for farmers’ markets, and new ones are popping up all the time. So what makes HSCA’s farmers’ market special?
Hyper Local
Approved Alberta Farmers Markets must maintain a “Made, Baked, or Grown” ratio of 80%. That means 4 of every 5 vendors must sell Albertan products that they, their staff, or their family members have created. For the past 5 years, the HSCA Farmers’ Market has had an MBG ratio of at least 90%, and this number has improved every year. In 2022, 97% of vendors were selling locally produced goods!
Meet the Maker
Compared to other Calgary markets, the vast majority of vendors at the HSCA Farmers’ Market are directly responsible for creating the goods they sell, rather than hiring staff members to do it for them. This means they literally stand behind their products, and can answer any questions about how they’re made!
Save the Environment and Support the Local Economy
Because the HSCA Farmers’ Market is truly local, you can be certain that your dollars are going back into the local economy. Shopping from local producers also reduces your ecological footprint, because goods don’t have to be shipped huge distances before arriving on the shelf, as they often are in big-box grocery stores.
Although times are difficult right now for most of us, the benefits of shopping local have never been more important!
The Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers’ Market outdoor season begins on Wednesday, May 31st.
Summer Farmers’ Market Special Event Schedule:
· June 21: Teddy Bear Picnic
· July 5: Anniversary Market
· August 16: Local Food Week
· September 6: Salsa Fest