How the U.S.-Canada Trade Tensions Impact Local Finds at Penticton Farmers’ Market

The Penticton Farmers’ Market has kicked off its 34th season, celebrating local growers. On opening day, thousands flocked to the more than 60 vendors set up along the 100-block of downtown Penticton.

“Supporting local is more important than ever,” said Philip Solman, the market’s assistant manager. With the U.S.-Canada trade tensions, he highlighted the need to invest back into our economy. “We need to keep that money circulating here.”

Visitors enjoyed a variety of delicious offerings. In addition to the popular deep-fried bread and samosas, shoppers found fresh coffee, radishes, and handmade pottery. These items give a taste of the community’s creativity and hard work.

Solman, who describes himself as a "big-city guy," emphasizes the importance of connecting with farmers. “When you interact with them, you understand the challenges they face and why supporting them is crucial,” he noted. “If we don’t back our farmers, who will grow our food?”

During the summer, the market often features over 100 vendors on Main Street, creating a vibrant hub for local goods. Yet challenges such as unpredictable weather and economic shifts have made it even more essential to support local food producers.

“Buy what you can from them,” Solman advised. He suggests that experiencing the impact of bad weather on crops can deepen appreciation for the hard work of farmers.

The market runs every Saturday until late October, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It’s a nonprofit organization focused on encouraging community support for local agriculture.

Recent data from a 2023 survey shows that 72% of consumers prefer shopping local, reflecting a growing trend in supporting area businesses. This shift not only helps local economies but also strengthens community ties. With ongoing economic uncertainty, the significance of farmers’ markets is more pronounced now than ever.

For more information about ways to support local agriculture, check out resources from the Canadian Federation of Agriculture.

By engaging with markets like Penticton’s, we contribute to a sustainable food system while strengthening our community bonds.

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Penticton|Farmers Market