Spring and summer bring freshly grown local fruits and vegetables to valley residents. There are several different Farmers Markets that are active during the spring and summer months in the North Thompson Valley. Farmers’ Markets are a perfect opportunity to bring local, sustainable food to your family’s dinner table and certainly are the place to shop if you are trying to stick with the 100 Mile diet.
You’ll find a Farmer’s Market in Barriere; they are open from the first Thursday in May (May 3), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to the last Thursday in October every year. The location is on the grounds at the Sam’s Pizza & Rib House restaurant (formerly Barr K Treats) at 4307 Yellowhead Highwaywy 5. The Market offers homemade goodies, homegrown fruits and veggies, beef, pork and lamb from 4 Bar S Ranch, free range eggs from Watersmeet Farm, plus cedar garden furniture and paintings by local artists.
To book a spot in Barriere, contact Donna Brown at 250-672-5159 or email jerdonbrown1@gmail.com.
In Clearwater, the Farmer’s Market is located on the grounds of Interior Whitewater Expeditions, across from Brookfield Mall, 73 West Old North Thompson Highway. They are also open from the beginning of May to the end of October, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturdays. The Market offers crafts, chocolates, plants, flowers, herbs, baking, seasonal fruits, numerous vegetables, plus the work of numerous artists.
As many as 26 vendors can be there each Saturday, and more are welcomed. To book a spot contact Anne Baker at 250-674-3444, or email schoolcreekfarm@gmail.com.
Then there is the Farmer’s Market up at Sun Peaks. It takes place on Sundays from June through September, from 12 noon to 4 p.m at the Sun Peaks Village Square. Local farmers, ranchers and artisans will be there selling fruits, veggies, local meats, seafood, art, crafts, beauty products, and more. To book a spot contact the Farmer’s Market Manager at 250-578-5386 or email tspevents@sunpeaksresort.com.