Marna Lynn Smith

The market season has begun! Starting on May 2 and running through to the Thanksgiving long weekend on Oct 10, the James Bay Community Market will be open every Saturday from 9am-3pm on the corner of Menzies and Superior Street , behind the legislative buildings. The market sits in a perfect location, just two blocks from the inner harbour, able to serve both locals and tourists alike. One of the mainstays of James Bay, this community market brings together a wide variety of people to mix and mingle on this treasured grassy spot.

The market vendors offer a wide selection of handmade, homemade and homegrown items. There is always a mix of familiar returning vendors with products you have come to rely on and new vendors just starting out offering their unique creations. There are vendors selling their homegrown garden produce, bedding plants and fresh cut flowers. One vendor offers fresh seafood including prawns. Vendors sell homemade baking and preserves and others sell their handmade knitting, jewelry, beauty products, pottery and more. Artists and photographers sell their original work and other vendors make colourful clothing and children’s items. There are also service providers who can give you a relaxing massage and a variety of non-profits set up to educate and inform you. There is a little something for everyone.

Every Saturday offers the opportunity to listen to live acoustic music. A variety of musicians play in different musical styles throughout the day. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea and some hot lunch while you relax and listen. Many musicians are familiar favourites and others are just starting out and some are just passing through. Musicians to perform include KousKous, The Sweet Low Down, Barry Perrin, Brad Prevedoros, Three Wide Men, Without A Net and many others.

Exciting events are planned for the market season including the annual Canada Day, Kid’s Fest and Fall Fair events. There will always be something to check out each Saturday including something special for the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends. Bring the kids down to participate in the art tent.

Check out the website for further details at www.jamesbaymarket.com.

The James Bay Market Society supports the running of three community events throughout the year; the James Bay summer market, Seedy Saturday and the Dickens Christmas Craft Fair. A special “thank you” for the continued support from vendors, volunteers, visitors and community members that keep these local events running.

This outdoor market is a great way to spend your Saturday in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Come on down and bring your friends and family to pick up some produce, a pie and jam to take home or that perfect birthday something. So whether you take the bus, walk, drive, stroll or roll – we hope to see you at the market!

Interested in vending or volunteering? Please email info@jamesbaymarket.com or call 250-381-5323

Marna is happy to have the opportunity to coordinate the market for a second year in a row. She is looking forward to seeing familiar faces and strengthening community ties.