Submitted by Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press
The Victoria Day weekend heralds the opening of the summer market season for the Lion’s Head Farmers’ Market which returns on 17 May at the Lion’s Head Beach Pavilion. For this first day of the Market, as it is a long weekend, the Market will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. On other Saturdays (not long weekends) the market will be open from 9 a.m. to noon. With over 38 full-time and occasional vendors, a wide range of local seasonal produce and local artisanal products are available.
Spring market a prelude to summer
The Lion’s Head Farmers’ Market hosted their first ever Spring Market on April 12 at the Bruce Peninsula District School (BPDS). A delightful Spring activity, the Market was a huge success, with vendors and patrons expressing their pleasure with the event. Additionally, the community was thrilled with the opportunity to get a taste of summer, socialize and stock up on Easter-themed goodies and products.
All summer long, market goers look forward to stocking up on their favorites. Many of the vendors have participated in the Lion’s Head Market for numerous years and have developed a following as residents, cottagers, their family and friends stock up on fresh baked bread, fruits, vegetables, lamb products, handmade chocolates, freshly brewed coffee, craft beer, maple syrup products, BBQ sauces, honey, baked goods, soaps, pottery, woodturning items, lavender products, seeds, flowers, plants, candles, tie-dye items, and artworks.
A community affair
A typical Saturday morning sees patrons coming out early to grab up seasonal produce, always excited to tell each other of their finds. But the market is much more than an exchange of goods, it is a Saturday social hub for community members. It is a time to slow down, browse the stalls, chat with vendors, learn about the products and meet fellow community members. A place to enjoy freshly grilled sandwiches, freshly brewed coffee, savory and/or sweet pastries and desserts whilst listening to the music of the Market Band. On any given Saturday, one can see locals/seasonals proudly shepherding their families and friends through the market. The market is also popular with tourists as they experience village life. Many visitors continually express their surprise at the high quality of products being offered at the Market.
Live Music on Saturday mornings
A volunteer group of dedicated musicians turn up to entertain both locals and visitors every Saturday morning during Market hours. Performing songs ranging from country, pop, jazz, classical and original compositions, the area under the trees immediately outside the Market is always a lively venue. Patrons sit on picnic benches or on the signature red Muskoka chairs, to enjoy the breakfast/brunch purchases, listen to music and spend time with each other.
Hours of Operation
Starting on May 17, the Market will be open every Saturday from Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving weekend. The Market runs from 9 a.m. until noon, and on the long weekends, open until 1 p.m. The Market is located at “the beach” in and next to the beach pavilion in Lion’s Head.
For more information visit https://www.lionsheadfarmersmarket.com/ or check out their facebook page for the latest updates.
