Withrow Park Farmers’ Market Celebrates 15th Anniversary

East Toronto farmers’ market to celebrate 15 years of offering fresh food and neighbourly connections, thanks to wide community support.

Withrow Park Farmers’ Market opens Saturday, June 5th, 2021, marking 15 years as a community essential that brings people together to celebrate local, sustainably produced food. To recognize this milestone, the market has special activities planned throughout its 2021 season. Withrow Park Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday, from 9 AM to 1 PM, in Withrow Park, one block south of Danforth and Carlaw, until October 16th.

“The market has always promoted the benefits of meeting the farmers that grow our food,” says market manager, Chantal Stepa. “We are big believers in the power of local. We’re so excited to bring local growers, food producers, artisans and the community together again! Now more than ever people are looking for those meaningful connections and the market provides a safe outdoor space.”

New look, new initiatives, new vendors this year
Withrow Park Farmers’ Market also unveils a fresh new look this season, with a reimagined logo created by Danielle Lewis Design, a local graphic designer. Market merchandise will be available to order, produced with Clayton’s Customs’ founder Stephanie Clayton, including tote bags, insulated tumblers and t-shirts for patrons to boast their market support. Alongside longtime favourites, the market is also welcoming new vendors, including two craft breweries, and inviting more participants to its Urban Grower Project that promotes urban agriculture in the city.

Founded in 2006, the market was established in recognition of the importance of small-scale food producers. The market helps to foster a local sustainable economy that strengthens community connection and environmental stewardship.

“It takes a community to build a flourishing farmers’ market,” says Janet Robins, Board Director. Withrow Park Farmers’ Market relies on the support of many, from the outstanding individuals who volunteer their time and skills to the support and participation of shoppers. “We’re especially thankful that our sponsors Meridian and Dillon have rallied around us and all levels of government have pulled together to make the market possible during the pandemic.”

Withrow Park Farmers’ Market will continue offering contactless payment options and online ordering with pick-up via a Local Line storefront, popular innovations introduced last year due to COVID-19. Public health measures including social distancing and mask-wearing will again be in place.

About Withrow Park Farmers’ Market: Withrow Park Farmers’ Market runs seasonally on Saturday mornings between early June and mid-October in Withrow Park, south of Danforth in Toronto’s Riverdale neighbourhood. The market, a registered nonprofit, is run by a market manager and volunteer coordinator, guided by a Board of Directors, and several volunteer committees.