If you are craving all of the fresh tastes and smells that you experience when you visit your local farmers’ market during the warmer weather, you might be surprised to know you don’t have to wait until spring.
Granted, most local markets are open generally from May until October; the Peterborough Market is open year round. The market dates back to 1825, demonstrating the commitment to fresh produce. It has since expanded to include fresh baking, cooking, crafts and more.
In fact, the offerings cover more than you would imagine from a typical farmers’ market. For instance, you can meet the farmers who grow your fruits and vegetables. But you can also meet the merchants who offer:
- Honey, Syrup and Baking
- Prepared Foods
- Flowers and Crafts
- Meat, Dairy and Eggs
- Busking, Health and Textiles
Although many big box stores are trying to replicate the feel of a local market, the reality is that the produce is generally not local and not fresh in the strictest sense of the word. Fruits and vegetables are transported long distances and spend a great deal of time in storage and refrigeration.
Buying locally produced goods provides fresher, seasonal and healthier goods. Plus, the variety is greater. Consider such options as organic foods, pasture-raised meats, free-range eggs and poultry, handmade farmstead cheeses, heirloom produce, and heritage breeds of meat. Not to mention the market is a great way to meet your neighbors!
During the winter months you can still buy such vegetables as beets, cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, rutabaga, sprouts and sweet potatoes and of course, apples are a year round fruit favorite.
The Peterborough Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday of the year from 7 am to 1 pm on Roger Neilson Way, just south of the intersection of Lansdowne Street and George Street.
During the spring, summer and fall you can find your favorite vendors in the Memorial Centre parking lot. When the chilly weather arrives, they move inside to the Morrow Building.
Be sure to check the website regularly to track the special events throughout the year including Root Vegetable Day, Maple Syrup Day, Egg Day, Strawberry and Dairy Day, and Corn and Peach Day!
Website: http://www.peterboroughfarmersmarket.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterboroughfarmersmarket/
And of course ‘think spring’ so you can visit the smaller markets closer to home in the Bethany area.
Bethany Ontario 
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