The Downtown Market will be packing in 28 vendors on its site this season, starting its fifth year of operation on June 4.
“I’m filling every nook and cranny,” said Tyler Bowman, market manager and special events co-ordinator with the Red Deer Downtown Business Association, on Friday.
Last year, 13 vendors were spread out at the market located at Little Gaetz Avenue between Alexander Way and Ross Street.
Bowman said the expansion will offer more to shoppers — both products and atmosphere.
The market will run rain or shine every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m.
New this year will be a community corner where not-for-profit organizations can set up information booths with the permission of the Red Deer Downtown Business Association.
A learning stage will also be set up, where people will give talks on topics related to the “make it, bake it or grow it” principles of the Alberta Farmers’ Market Association.
Bowman said downtown market shoppers have tended to be very serious, buying their goods and leaving. He hopes the learning stage will encourage more people to stay.
People interested in sharing their expertise on the stage are encouraged to contact Bowman.
Vendors this year include four vegetable producers, four meat producers, four bakers and a few food trucks, as well as people who make products like jellies and guacamole.
Bowman said most of the products sold at the market come from Alberta, with some exceptions like B.C. fruit that can’t be grown in this province.
No retail, imported or second-hand goods are sold at the market.
The Red Deer market is one of 131 farmers’ markets that operate across Alberta.
The final day for the Downtown Market this season will be Oct. 8.
For more information, call 403-340-8696.
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com