Autumn in Southern Ontario can be an absolutely magical time. The crisp fall air is a refreshing break from the intense humidity emblematic of our summers. We have numerous natural areas that practically explode with colour as the leaves begin to change. It’s also the time of year when many of our farms thrive. Local crops including apples, pears, squash, pumpkins, carrots, beets, kale, onions, and garlic are in season, making farmers’ markets the best place for you to get your produce in the fall!
If you live near the iConnect Community, or are planning a move here soon, you likely already know that the surrounding area is rich with local gems, including a variety of farmers’ markets just a short drive away. And right now, they’re in peak season! We’ve harvested our favourites and hope you get a chance to check them out this fall.
In addition to picking up fruits and vegetables at their most delicious, you’re making positive contributions to our local economy and lifestyle when you visit a farmer’s market:
- Grow your community. You can take advantage of the social aspect of these markets by chatting with growers, artisans, and neighbours. You can discover ways to make the most of your market purchases that you may have otherwise never considered.
- Shop sustainably. Market-fresh food will have far less packaging than grocery store items. And with fewer kilometres traveled to get to you, the environmental impact of locally grown produce is far more positive than the alternative.
- Support Canadian farmers. With international trade becoming more and more complicated by the day, here’s one shopping choice that stays simple. You can support your local economy and remain confident that there aren’t any extraneous duties or tariffs inflating the cost.
Waterdown Farmers’ Market
https://waterdownfarmersmarket.ca
Where is it: Royal Canadian Legion – Waterdown Branch – 79 Hamilton St. N.
When is it open: Saturdays 8 am – 1 pm until mid-October
Market highlights: If you’re in or near iConnect Community, this market is virtually in your backyard! Among its 30+ vendors is Jones Family Greens (produce is grown in an “ecological and sustainable manner to produce the most nutritious and flavourful food possible”).
Hamilton Farmers’ Market
https://hamiltonfarmersmarket.ca/
Where is it: Downtown Hamilton, York Blvd. and MacNab Street
When is it open: year-round
Market highlights: the market’s indoor location allows it to run all year, offering local, national and international foods including produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, deli, baked goods, flowers, specialty foods, and artisan handmade products. Be sure to check out Nonno’s Plant-Based Butcher, a unique, meat- and dairy-free take on traditional Italian-style sandwiches.
Market in the Creek
https://hometownhub.ca/listing-item/market-in-the-creek/
Where is it: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 622 – 12 King St. E., Stoney Creek
When is it open: Wednesdays 4 – 7 pm until October 8
Market highlights: If you’re checking out this market in the heart of Stoney Creek, you can’t miss Angels Wings Devils Poutine Food Truck. Every ingredient has been carefully selected and sourced locally, and they only use local in-season produce.
Ancaster Farmers Market
https://www.shopancasterfarmersmarket.com
Where is it: Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St E
When is it open: Wednesdays 3-7 pm until October 8
Market highlights: The Ancaster BIA oversees this market which has become vital not only for local farmers, but the overall community, and social experience is every bit as important as the shopping one. We recommend you visit sustainable roasters Back Road Coffee, who take the time and care to produce a coffee as flavourful as it is ethical.
Burlington Centre Lions Farmers’ Market
https://burlingtonlionsclub.ca/burlington-farmers-market/
Where is it: Burlington Centre – 777 Guelph Line, Burlington
When is it open: Wednesdays, Friday, and Saturdays 8 am – 2 pm until October 25
Market highlights: For 67 years, the Burlington Farmers’ Market has been offering fresh, locally-grown produce, delicious baked goods, farm-fresh meats, artisan cheeses, and even fresh and frozen seafood from the Maritimes. You’ll want to stop by Sun-Ray Orchards who focus on sustainably growing high-quality stone fruits, like peaches, plums, nectarines, cherries, and apricots. All their bakery items are made from scratch and centre around these local fruits. And their butter tarts are award winners!
Make the Most of Your Market Experience
- Bring reusable shopping bags or baskets. Most markets attempt to produce as little waste as possible, and some vendors may not even have bags for you.
- Carry cash and small change. More often than not, farmers’ market vendors don’t have the setup to accept debit or credit cards. Some may even offer deals if you can pay cash!
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Farmers’ markets are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, when you can socialize with vendors and other patrons. You don’t want to rush through the trip because you came ill-prepared!
- Plan your optimal arrival time. If you want to pick from the best selection, arrive early. If you want the opportunity to bargain hunt, come late when vendors are preparing to pack up.
Get out There and Grab Those Local Finds!
Market season may be winding down, but in Southern Ontario it always goes out with a bang! The local fall harvest is phenomenal, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. If you get out to any of these markets, share your haul on social! Tag @_iconnectcommunity to join the conversation.