Central Albertans are invited to celebrate the anniversary of Gasoline Alley’s year-round indoor farmers market opening its doors.
The Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market will hold a family-friendly party to celebrate three years since opening on Saturday, Jan. 27. There will be face-painting and a balloon artist on site, as well as a live performance from musician Dean Ray from 1-3 p.m. Then, there will be karaoke in the Market Kitchen from 4-7 p.m.
Additionally, attendees will be able to get a treat from vendors Babycakes Cupcakery, Sweet Bites and Coco Beans Baked Goods, while supplies last.
“Things are really good right now at the market,” said Shauna Fisher, Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market general manager.
“We’re busy and we keep getting busier. We’ve got a lot of support from locals. The whole market opened on Jan. 29 – we did a smaller opening Nov. 20, 2020. But on Jan. 29, 2021, we opened up the Market Kitchen as well.”
It’s been a quick three years at the market, with a number of new offerings being introduced, including a new loyalty card for guests, noted Fisher.
“The loyalty card has been well received. People are loving it and it’s a great way to say thank you to our customers,” Fisher said, adding events are happening frequently at the market as well.
“Now that we’re fully opened and after going through COVID it’s been great to have events. We’ve got workshops planned for the spring, we’re going to do some tomato bush planting and flower arrangements. We have karaoke once a month here. We’ve got a paint night for people to come in, learn how to paint a picture and have a beverage while enjoying the Market Kitchen.”
A full list of events is available online at gasolinealleymarket.ca.
The Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market has about 50 local vendors from around Alberta – 80 per cent of vendors are Albertan, the market’s website notes. This Saturday’s party is a way to celebrate them and the community, Fisher said.
“It’s a way to say thank you for us getting the support we’ve received from the local community,” she said.
“Some people come in, they see the beautiful fruits and vegetables … and sometimes they don’t even realize it’s grown here locally. It’s right from Central Alberta, which is no different from our beef products, pork products and proteins.”
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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