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The Winkler Farmers’ Market has been in full bloom this season, having moved locations to the parking lot of Central Station earlier this summer. Market organizer Matt Friesen shared that the location shift has led to more community connections and opportunities, especially through the Manitoba Community Food Currency Program, which is offered through Central Station.
“We’ve had some increased demand for produce, especially, and the things that are involved in the Community Food Currency Program,” shared Friesen. “That has really expanded our potential for the number of vendors we can accept at the market.”
The market boasts more than 15 vendors, selling everything from cotton candy and crochet to vegetables and bread. In his ten years as organizer, Friesen has seen trends come and go, and staples stay: “I guess the trend that has come up more so... is the demand for sourdough. We have a couple of key sourdough vendors here now that we would not have seen ten years ago.”
It’s 16-year-old Jack Elias’s first year selling vegetables. His business, Norkenzie Farms, was started from his own interest in the market process- “I’ve always liked the idea of selling vegetables in kind of old fashioned stores.” Elias added: “this year, I decided to give it a try.”
Growing and selling vegetables has been a learning experience for Elias, especially while working at a market. Particular skills he’s developed include “...learning to smile at customers and people, and stay alert” Elias added, “and having a good display helps.”
As for what to keep an eye out for at upcoming markets, it’s all about the veggies: with local fruit going out for the season, “... the corn is in, and the produce seems to be coming in in bunches now, so that should be good.” shared Friesen.
The Winkler Farmers’ Market takes place Tuesdays from 4-6 pm at the Central Station Parking lot, located at 555 Main St in Winkler. Missed this week’s market? No need to worry, the market runs until the second last Tuesday in September. Check out the Winkler Farmers’ Market Facebook page and Instagram for up-to-date info, including vendor lists.
