The Downtown Red Deer Market is moving locations for its 2025 season.
On Thursday, May 1, the Red Deer Downtown Business Association announced the weekly market will relocate from Little Gaetz to the 5023 Ross St., which is the empty lot that was formerly the site of the Buffalo Hotel.
The decision to relocate the market comes after "years of strategic planning and public feedback," notes the DBA.
“This new chapter for the market is about resilience and reimagining. If you’ve shared input with us — thank you. We’ve heard you,” said Chelsey Ward, activations and experience manager for the DBA.
“We’re using everything we’ve learned to build something stronger, while simultaneously transforming a vacant space into a vibrant gathering place that works better for everyone.”
The DBA states this move is being done in response to "changing community needs," and will address vendor accessibility, fluctuating attendance and rising costs while embracing "new opportunities for growth."
The 2025 market season kicks off May 28 and runs every Wednesday from 3:30-6:30 p.m. until Oct. 1. The DBA states this Alberta Farmers’ Market Association accredited market "ensures a strong focus on Alberta grown and made products." This accreditation guarantees that every purchase directly supports Alberta food producers and small businesses.
The DBA adds that the new location also improves visibility, safety and parking while lowering operating costs, which will be reinvested in "beautification, placemaking and vendor support." The DBA is also advocating for accessible parking options, particularly for seniors and market attendees.
“The City of Red Deer has been open and responsive to exploring solutions with us,” says Amanda Gould, DBA CEO.
“This is not only about building a market — but a downtown — that’s resilient, inclusive, and ready for the future. We’re proud to keep the spirit of the market alive while adapting for long-term sustainability.”
For more information or to become a vendor, visit downtownreddeer.com.
The City of Red Deer's seasonal public washroom will also be moving right next to the downtown market's new location. On Friday, May 2, the city announced the facility, which was first placed in the downtown in 2021, will be located at 5031 50 St. and will remain in place until Oct. 15.
The facility houses two fully accessible stalls that are operational from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours will be extended to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays to support the downtown market. The washrooms are cleaned and maintained regularly by DBA staff.
"This partnership with the Downtown Business Association helps to reduce barriers and encourages residents and visitors to frequent downtown," states a City of Red Deer media release.
More information about the washroom is available at www.reddeer.ca/downtownwashroom.
