Help us run a vibrant market at False Creek!
Background
Farmers Market has been moving around a bit, in and around the False Creek area, since we started in 2009. We were first located at Main St Station and then we moved to the Concord Community Park. We are so grateful to the community of this area and it is because of their support that we have been able to adapt to a variety of displacements during the construction of the New St. Paul’s Hospital. We are potentially moving again and seeking support from our market community!
Hopes for 2023
This summer, our market temporarily shifted to the seawall and as a result, received overwhelmingly positive feedback from not just vendors but also shoppers! We have now requested permission from the Parks Board to operate the False Creek Farmers Market on Thursdays from June 1 to October 5, 2023 at Creekside Park South (a part of the future of East Park). This area happens to be undergoing public consultation right now and we are seeking support of the community to bring farmers markets into the conversation for the future of this area.
Why everyone loves it
- Accessible for shoppers: walkable from Skytrain and bus routes, on a bike path, adjacent a parking lot
- Access to water and washrooms: Creekside Community Centre within walking distance
- Attractive to vendors: visible location with high foot traffic
How you can help
Please offer your support for a farmers market at East Park by taking 5-10 minutes to complete the online Park Board survey before it closes on December 8, 2022.
There is no current mention of a farmers market so you will need to mention it in the open-ended boxes.
You may also would like to ponder upon on how the values connected to the East Park planning process might be embodied in a farmers market space – we see direct connects with the values of belonging, open, safe and inclusive, flexible and distinct and believe there are opportunities to explore the values of connecting with Local First Nations culture, acknowledging racial and cultural inequities, and being authentically rooted in place through partnerships and programming.
Imagine if the market were here on a regular basis through the summer months, making some of the freshest, tastiest local fruits and vegetables, breads and pastries, mushrooms and more available in the neighbourhood for picnics or for dinner. One wonders if there is an opportunity to celebrate and teach about local foods available on these lands and waters before colonization and its proximity to rapid transit makes it accessible for seniors, expectant parents and refugees using the nutrition coupon program to come and stock up on fresh food.
Thanks for your ongoing support!
Thanking Laura Smit, Executive Director, Vancouver Farmers Market for this blog post.
