Farmers’ Market back in late June

New Thompson area map promotes local food

The Sun Peaks & Region Farmers’ Market returns every Sunday from June 25 to Aug. 28. – File Photo

Over a dozen vendors have signed up for the Sun Peaks & Region Farmers’ Market with more rolling in each week, according to organizers. Summer Farm, based in Coldstream, will be the main fruit and vegetable vendor, allowing residents to add locally sourced produce to their weekly grocery haul. The market takes place in the village walkway every Sunday from June 26 to Sept. 4.

Local vendors include Sun Peaks artisans Photography by Gunner and Sun Peaks Soap Works. Other community groups and businesses are encouraged to set up a booth. For more information or to register contact ea@sunpeakstourism.com or 250-578-5388.

On another local note, Sun Peaks resident Meghan Kolodka, manager of Vertical Café, has joined the market’s board of directors. And locally-based musicians Lowell Friesen, Shaughnessy Rose and Jana Seale will provide the soundtrack every Sunday.

“It’s great to have local support at the board level,” said Janice Hoppenreys, events manager for Tourism Sun Peaks.

For those looking to grow their own greens, the Thompson Shuswap Master Gardeners will hold a clinic at the market on Sunday, July 31. These knowledgeable volunteers will share answers to gardening questions while helping to promote environmentally responsible practices for a healthy and balanced garden.

New this year, the market will be featured along with other local farms, producers and events in the new 2016 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Thompson map. The map will include Thompson, Nicola and Shuswap farmers’ markets and highlight local food and where to find it in the community. After several successful years in the Okanagan, the new Thompson map will be available in early July following a public launch at the Kamloops market. Farm listings and printable maps are also available on www.buylocalbc.org.

The municipality has created a new green space in the upper village which is an expansion of the Kids Zone. It will include picnic tables and life-sized board games.

“Sun Peaks’ weekly Farmers’ Market provides the perfect opportunity for families to bring fresh and healthy produce to the dinner table while choosing to buy local,” said Hoppenreys. “Add in the abundance of activities, and charm of the alpine village, and you have a perfect Sunday destination.”