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As winter fades into memory, the Portage Farmers’ Market prepares to shift from its cozy indoor home at Stride Place to a fresh outdoor location this June.
But first, it’s celebrating spring with its annual Mother’s Day Market this Saturday at the banquets hall of Canad Inns, Portage.
Winter warmth to spring sunshine
The market’s winter season brought a steady stream of visitors not just from Portage but across Canada and beyond, including hockey tournament attendees from neighbouring provinces and U.S. states.
“We get many visitors from all over the place, like Ontario, Saskatchewan,” says Jodi Poirier, executive director of the Portage Farmers’ Market. “We have people who say I saw you last year. I bought this, it was amazing.’ And they buy again. So, repeat customers from all over.”
While the outdoor summer location remains under wraps pending confirmation, Poirier assures patrons that updates will be shared via the market’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
The market will continue indoors at Stride Place throughout May before moving outside in early June.
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Mother’s Day Market: gifts, prizes, and community spirit
This weekend’s Mother’s Day Market features 69 vendors, blending familiar vendors with seasonal favourites.
“It’s going to be a fantastic show,” Poirier says. “Who doesn’t love hot sauce? Or cookies?”
Attendees can enter to win one of five gift certificates for market purchases simply by providing their contact details at the door. A silver collection will also be held to support local nonprofits, though the beneficiaries are still being finalized.
“We’re contemplating splitting it up depending on how much there is and gifting a few different local nonprofit organizations,” Poirier explains.
Fresh air and new horizons
The shift outdoors marks a new chapter for the market, which can’t return to its previous summer location this year. Poirier remains optimistic, noting the team has “backup plans” if their preferred site falls through.
For now, the focus is on celebrating spring’s arrival and the bonds of community.
As shoppers hunt for handmade jewelry, locally sourced honey, and quirky bath bombs this weekend, the market’s blend of seasonal transition and heartfelt giving offers a fitting tribute to mothers—and the enduring appeal of small-town charm.
For more information on this years event, click here.