Monthly Archives: April 2023

Yes friends! Can you believe it? We’re back in the park, and in full swing on May 18! And still every Thursday, from 3-7pm. And (so you’re aware), the outdoor season ends on October 26, 2023. Twenty-four glorious weeks. 

Even though spring has beautifully sprung, for our lovely Dufferin Grove community, it just doesn’t seem complete, until our farmers’ market is underway – soon enough folks! 💚

And hopefully, we’ll have a full indoor season, starting in November (and beyond) – back at our previous location, at the north end of the park. But this is very dependent on the status (and outcome), of the current construction – so again, let’s hope! 

And sorry it’s been so long since we last “spoke”, but trust me – I’ve been thinking about (the lot of you), non-stop! Looking forward to when we’re finally “together again”. xx

It’s incredible just how much planning and preparation goes into getting the market ready each year. I know it’s been said before, but kudos to Anne – one thousand percent! haha

But hey, it’s all worth it – and this year’s season will be spectacular! We’ll have a bunch of new vendors for you to welcome, and of course, many of the long-time regulars that have helped us get this far.

And to quote (former board member), the delightful Cora James: 

“Last month, I attended Parkdale’s Seedy Saturday event, and was optimistic that our vendors’ bounty was not far behind; including kale from Nith Valley Organics and new potatoes from Kooner Farms. And soon enough stalks of pink rhubarb will appear, flirtatiously asking to be made into an upside down cake, or maybe a tart with custard and rhubarb compote.

That being said, if you do not have the patience for baking, the Dufferin Grove Organic Farmers’ Market features vendors to do it for you – Robinson Bread always delights me with their seasonal creations. If you cannot wait until May to visit them at the market, I highly recommend a weekend stroll on a sunny day to their flagship store at Queen St West and Brock Avenue.

I cannot wait to schedule an early evening walk on a Thursday, at the end of my work day, to Dufferin Grove to grab one of those samosas from Magic Oven, and far too many salad greens for dinner.  One more month, friends. We can do it!”

I’m with you Cora – and thanks for that!

And speaking of board members, if you noticed the word “former” in my introduction of Cora, that may have alerted you that we’re currently looking for new ones! Here’s our callout:

“Attention all community members! Are you passionate about local organic food and supporting small businesses? Well the Dufferin Grove Organic Farmers’ Market is seeking new members to join our Board of Director – and that could be you!

At our market, we strongly believe in the importance of diversity and inclusivity in our community. And we therefore, welcome and encourage applicants of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences to apply. 

As a board member, you’ll help shape the future of the market and contribute to the success of our vendors and customers. And if you have any skills in fundraising, grant writing, finance, community outreach, marketing or social media, fantastic!

So if any or all of this sounds interesting to you, please drop a note to: info@dufferingrovemarket.ca, with the subject line, “board member inquiry”, by May 5th, 2023. Can’t wait to hear from you!”

But if you’re just wanting to get involved in a more general way, terrific! We always need VOLUNTEERS, and would love to hear from you. So whether it’s to be more hands-on, on market day, or if you happen to be someone with a penchant for organizing, who can recruit, help to train, and organize, please get in touch!

info@dufferingrovemarket.ca, with the subject line, “volunteering”.

Ok, thanks for reading friends, and for just hanging in there! 💙

We’ll touch base again in early May, before the start of the market – to introduce you to the vendors, new and “old”, and to let you know what to expect for the season ahead.

Yahooo!!!
-Nicole