Saskatoon Farmers' Market

The Saskatoon Farmers’ Market is the city's main public market, a member-owned, non-profit cooperative that was founded in 1975 and has become a Saturday habit for many residents of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. It was created to give local growers, bakers and makers a place to sell directly to the public, and its rule that vendors sell only what they grow, raise or make themselves is a large part of its appeal. The market is listed at 2600 Koyl Avenue, on the north side of the city near the airport, with plenty of parking.

Walking through the market is a good introduction to the food of the prairies. Stalls sell vegetables and fruit in season, from early greens and rhubarb to corn, potatoes and root vegetables in the late summer, and honey, preserves and pickles all year round. Saskatoon berries, the small purple fruit that gives the city its name, appear in pies, jams and baking when they are in season, and they are one of the most distinctive local products. Meat producers offer beef, pork, lamb, bison, poultry and farmer sausage, and bakers sell breads, buns, pies and tarts made with local flour. Many stalls reflect the city’s immigrant communities, with Ukrainian perogies and cabbage rolls, Mennonite baking, Asian and Middle Eastern foods and other traditions in the mix.

The market is also a place to eat on the spot. Prepared-food counters serve breakfast and lunch, and coffee and baked treats are available for people who want to browse with a snack. Crafts, including pottery, woodwork, knitting, soaps and jewellery, fill other stalls, so it is a good place to find gifts that are made in the province. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with regular shoppers chatting with the vendors they have known for years, and visitors are welcome to ask about products and try samples.

Seasonal events add to the programme. The market holds plant sales in spring, barbecues and special days through the summer and holiday markets near the end of the year, which bring larger crowds and extra stalls. These events give a good sense of the community’s traditions and the rhythm of the growing season.

Entry is free, and the market is open on a regular weekly schedule that is longest on the weekend, with some midweek openings in the warm months, so check the market’s website for current hours. It suits food lovers, families and visitors who want to meet local producers. Arrive early for the best selection, bring cash or a card, and carry reusable bags for your purchases. Allow an hour or two for browsing and a meal.