The farmers’ market at Bloor and Borden returns to the Annex the first week of June and will be open every Wednesday from 3-7 pm until the last week of October. Look for the Green P parking lot just south of Bloor and you’ll catch sight of the action.

This year the market will feature some new prepared-food vendors and will also see a lot of returning vendors. Shoppers can expect to see strawberries mid-June, blueberries by the end of July, and peaches by August. The long winter of sad-looking imported fruits and veggies will soon come to an end! 

The future is uncertain for farmers’ markets in the province as the model depends on provincial funding. Farmers’ markets bring fresh local produce to urban areas. They put more money into the pockets of farmers, and help city slickers connect to the food they eat. By supporting a local farmers’ market, patrons are sending a message that they care about the plight of farmers and about the environment, and want to put their money where their mouths are. This year, it is more important than ever to show support to farmers. 

Did you know that all farmers must be vetted by Farmers’ Market Ontario? Every farmer has had their farm inspected and provided proof that they planted crops themselves. Re-sellers are not welcome at the Bloor Borden Market. 

Cooked food vendors need to buy their produce (where possible) from farmers. Though Ontario doesn’t grow much wheat, when you buy a kale and squash pie you can be assured that the kale and squash came from an Ontario farmer. 

—Terru Chu/Gleaner News