Talking tomatoes

James Bay Market

By Jessica Duncan

As summer wanes, the real fruits start to come out.  I'm talking tomatoes for those who aren't particularly garden savvy.  The humble tomato appears on our table almost every day of the year, yet its harvest season lasts a mere few short weeks.  It has a long history of love and hate, good and evil.  But there is so much more to learn about this ubiquitous fruit, not the least of which, is that it is NOT a vegetable.  On September 15^th, James Bay Market will host a wholly tomato day where you can learn everything from inane tomato trivia to the best methods for saving your tomato seeds.  There will be hands-on instructions on caring for your tomato plants, a magnificent display of heirloom tomatoes, and, of course, the opportunity to buy some delicious, locally grown and freshly picked tomatoes.   In order to raise funds to sustain the market which has been a part of our community for over twenty years, there will be a tomato-themed raffle basket, so be sure to bring a few extra loonies to buy some tickets.

To wrap up the summer's harvest, James Bay Market will host another fruity event on October 6^th, this time with apples in mind.  At this special Harvest Festival you will find everything apple, including cider pressing demonstrations, and, best of all, an apple pie contest.  Everyone is invited to bake an apple pie for the competition.  If you're not a baker you can just sample some of the entries which is equally fun. Of course, there will also be an apple-themed raffle basket, and in keeping with the heritage feeling, a blacksmith will be on site, demonstrating his trade.

There is always something for everyone to be found at James Bay Market at the corner of Menzies and Superior every Saturday 9:00am - 3:00pm running through to the end of October.  You will find tables laden with freshly picked, seasonal produce from local growers, homemade jams, handmade crackers, baked goods galore, specialty salts and even gourmet granola.  There is also a wide assortment of artisan-made crafts to meet all your gift-giving needs.  When your bags are full and you've finished shopping, you can grab a cup of "Mile 0" coffee (roasted right here in James Bay) and a bite to eat from one of the food vendors, pull up a chair and listen to some of Victoria's finest musicians who perform on the Market stage each week.  Wondering what to do with the kids?  A children's area awaits your young ones with volunteers ready to entertain your child with fun and crafts.  James Bay Market is easily accessible to strollers and walkers. 

Before heading off to the supermarket on Saturday mornings, swing by James Bay Market first to support your local farmers and small businesses.  Bring the whole family and plan to stay a while to enjoy the music, the demonstrations and the delicious food.  For more information, visit the James Bay Market website at or email info@jamebaymarket.com.

Mark your Calendar now for our festive winter market, the annual Dickens Fair, Saturday December 1, 2 to 8 pm.  If you are interested in being a vendor or volunteer please e-mail us at info@jamesbaymarket.com