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FAQs

Q: Who is Vancouver Farmers Markets?

A: Your Local Farmers Market Society, dba Vancouver Farmers Markets (VFM) is a registered non-profit society that operates 9 weekly neighbourhood farmers markets throughout the city. Since 1995, we have supported small BC farms and producers, connecting them with folks from all walks of life that share one thing in common: the love of local food.

Q: Who sells at Vancouver Farmers Markets?

A: VFM markets are producer-only and all of our vendors make, bake, grow, or catch what they sell. We do not allow imports or re-selling of product at the markets.

There are over 250 producers on our vendor roster, including farm, meat, seafood and dairy, prepared food, nursery, craft, and food trucks.

Q: Is there a Market Code of Conduct?

At Vancouver Farmers Markets, we are committed to creating vibrant and welcoming markets that build community, feed people, and support small farms and producers. To ensure a welcoming and enjoyable experience at our markets, we expect the following from all parties:

  • Respectful, Professional, and Courteous Behaviour: All vendors, shoppers, market staff, volunteers, buskers, and visitors are expected to treat one another with respect, professionalism, and courtesy at all times.
  • Zero Tolerance for Discrimination: Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. We are dedicated to maintaining an inclusive and safe space for all individuals, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, ability, age, cultural background, education, ethnicity, immigration status, language, nationality, physical appearance, or religion.
  • No Tolerance for Racist Comments: Racist comments or actions towards anyone are strictly prohibited. Such behaviour is unacceptable and goes against our values of inclusivity and respect.

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR

Unacceptable behavior from anyone at the markets, including but not limited to vendors and shoppers includes:

  • Intimidating, harassing, abusive, discriminatory, or demeaning speech, materials, or conduct.
  • Violence, threats, or violent language or symbols.
  • Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, or other discriminatory jokes and language.
  • Personal insults or oppressive behavior, especially related to gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, ability, age, cultural background, education, ethnicity, immigration status, language, nationality, physical appearance, or religion.
  • Taking photos, videos, or audio recordings to embarrass or harass others, or for commercial purposes without consent.
  • Lewd or offensive behavior, including sexually explicit or offensive language or materials, profanity, obscene gestures, or racial, religious, or ethnic slurs.
  • Ignoring event rules, regulations, or directions from staff.

Thank you for helping us create a respectful and inclusive community at Vancouver Farmers Markets. Report any behavior that conflicts with VFM’s Code of Conduct. If you experience or witness harassment or have other concerns, do not engage directly. Instead, please inform the Market Manager or reach out to the us at info@eatlocal.org

Q: How “local” are Vancouver Farmers Markets?

A: All of our vendors and products are from BC. We do not limit the number of miles a product travels to the market, but use the provincial boundaries as a guide.

Q: Do Vancouver Farmers Markets run all year long?

A: We currently have 7 summer locations that open between May-June each year and run until late October. Our winter markets run from November to late April/early May. We are open rain or shine! Each of our markets is unique to the neighbourhood that hosts it, so be sure to visit us at all of our locations. More details at the Markets Page.

Q: Is there a policy around having dogs at the Vancouver Farmers Markets?

We welcome your four-legged buddies at Vancouver Farmers Markets! To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Leash Requirements: Dogs must be kept on a short leash at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of all market visitors.
  • Supervision: Be mindful of your dog’s activities and behavior.
  • Clean Up: If your dog does its business within the market area, please clean up immediately to maintain a hygienic environment for all.
  • Consideration for Others: Remember that not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Be respectful of others’ sensitivities and keep your dog close to you.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us create a safe and enjoyable market experience for everyone. If you experience or witness any behaviour that does not align with this code of conduct, please speak with our market manager at the market or reach out to the us at info@eatlocal.org

Q: What is Market Membership?

A: VFM’s Market Membership Program helps us raise funds that support our work as a non-profit society.

Membership Program helps Vancouver Farmers Markets to:

  • manage & operate nine farmers markets through the year – seven in summer and two in winters
  • survive & thrive so we can continue to serve the community through essential food access
  • pay for operational expenses including equipment, market infrastructure, site licenses and permits fees

Our member get following benefits:

  • Market Members get great deals from our vendors each time they shop at Vancouver Farmers Markets.
  • Voting rights at Annual General Meeting (AGM) to shape the future of our markets.
  • Special savings on VFM merchandise items, so you can show off your support everywhere you go.
  • Exclusive discounts with our special Friends of Farmers Markets

Q: Are political campaigns allowed at the Vancouver Farmers Markets?

You may see political campaigning in the market later this Summer and this does not mean that VFM is aligning itself with this particular party or platform. Here are some guidelines around the elections and related campaigning work:

  • Are political campaigning activities allowed in BC farmers’ markets?
    Yes. As per the BC Elections Act, federal, provincial and municipal political candidates are allowed to campaign within BC farmers’ markets. Organizers must not prevent a candidate or their representative from campaigning, and must give equal access to all candidates, regardless of their political affiliation or views.
  • Are the rules different for federal, provincial, and municipal elections?
    No. All candidates, regardless of which level of government they’re running for, are allowed to campaign in public spaces. Federal elections are governed by the Canada Elections Act, which clearly states you must allow candidates to campaign in a public space, even when that space is only open on a periodic or occasional basis. Provincial and municipal elections are governed by the BC Election Act, which only restricts campaigning within 100 metres of a district electoral office or voting place while voting is being conducted.