File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby

SOUND OFF

SOUND OFF: Celebrating farmers’ market season in B.C.

Jun 25, 2025 | 10:30 AM

SUMMER IN BRITISH COLUMBIA is more than just sunshine and warm weather, it’s the season of abundance, community, and connection.

For me, as a daughter of a farmer, one of the greatest joys of this time of year is visiting our vibrant local farmers’ markets, where I can fill my basket with fresh-picked produce, farm-raised eggs, local meats and seafood, and handcrafted goods all grown, raised and created with care by hardworking British Columbians.

Farmers’ markets aren’t just places to shop. They’re the heartbeat of our communities. They connect us to the land, to each other, and to the passionate growers and producers who make it possible for us to put nutritious, delicious, and sustainable food on our tables.

In a world of global uncertainty and rising costs — especially with ongoing U.S. tariffs — it has never been more important to Buy B.C. and invest in our local food systems. That’s why our government continues to fund the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program with a $4.25 million investment this season. This vital program helps low-income families, seniors, and pregnant people across the province access fresh, local food, while also supporting our incredible network of farmers.

The program operates in over 100 farmers’ markets across 90 communities — including Kamloops — and supports more than 8,500 households every year. Through our trusted community partners, eligible residents receive coupons to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, seafood, nuts, and even vegetable starts to grow their own food.

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As Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and a proud Okanagan resident, I’ve seen firsthand the tireless dedication and heart our farmers bring to their work. Their hard work and labour feeds us all, and every dollar spent at a farmers’ market is a direct investment into their future—and ours.

In Kamloops, you can attend two markets a week all summer, with the Saturday Market running from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the 200-block of St. Paul Street and the Stuart Woods schoolyard, and the Midweek Market on Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the 400-block of Victoria St.

In Vernon, I love stopping by our bustling farmers’ markets on Mondays and Thursdays to stock up on produce, enjoy live music, and support local artisans and vendors. In Kelowna, the vibrant Saturday market draws families, chefs, and visitors alike with its incredible range of offerings. And in Lumby, the small but mighty market showcases the resilience and heart of rural producers who pour love into every tomato, jar of honey, and handmade craft they sell.

Whether you’re in the Okanagan, the Nicola Valley, the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, or the North, your local farmers’ market is a treasure trove of seasonal bounty and community spirit. These markets are a celebration of who we are as British Columbians.

So, this summer, I encourage everyone to explore your local market. Buy something fresh. Talk to a grower. Try something new. Support your neighbours.

Because when you shop at a farmers’ market, you’re not just buying food—you’re nourishing your family, your community, and the future of food in B.C.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.