June 12, 2023  |   

By Jasleen Sohal, Feeding City Research Assistant

The Withrow Park Farmers’ Market in Toronto has firmly established itself as a cherished community institution. Situated in the heart of the city’s East End, this market is more than just a place to shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods. It serves as a vibrant hub for fostering community connections and supporting local food initiatives. Operated by a dedicated volunteer committee as a Centre for Local Food Initiatives project, the market provides a platform for Ontario farmers, food entrepreneurs, and conscious consumers to come together. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the market quickly adapted with strict safety measures. As restrictions have now been lifted, visitors can fully enjoy the market experience, engaging with vendors, sampling delicious treats, and exploring a wide range of offerings. The recent reopening of the market on June 3rd, 2023 marked a triumphant return, celebrating its 17th year and the enduring spirit of local food and community.

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The Withrow Park Farmers’ Market has consistently showcased its commitment to fostering and promoting urban agriculture. The Market launched the Urban Grower Project in 2020, an initiative that has returned each year since. This project provides a platform for urban growers to participate as vendors, whether they cultivate their produce in backyard gardens, on rooftops, or on balconies. Urban agriculture offers numerous benefits, including increased access to fresh, locally sourced produce, reduced barriers to land access, climate change mitigation, pollinator-friendly habitats, stronger social connections, resilient communities, and more. The Market’s dedication to supporting urban growers and their valuable contributions underscores its commitment to sustainable, producer-centric, and community-responsive initiatives.

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The zero waste initiative at Withrow Park Farmers’ Market has also made a comeback this year, offering customers two environmentally friendly options. They can either bring their own reusable items or take advantage of the convenient Muuse program. Through the market’s partnership with the Muuse app, visitors can borrow a range of reusable products such as cups, plates, cutlery, and takeout containers. This borrowing system exemplifies the market’s dedication to waste reduction and sustainable practices. Furthermore, customers are encouraged to bring their own clean containers, mugs, produce bags, and shopping bags, further promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

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One of the highlights of the market is the Seed Library, which returned for its fourth season. This unique initiative allows the community to exchange, acquire, and distribute a diverse range of seeds, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, and native plants. With over 100 different seed varieties, the Seed Library has become a valuable resource for gardeners and plant enthusiasts.

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Limited time offerings at the Withrow Park Farmers Market include seasonal delights such as asparagus, rhubarb, ramps, fiddleheads, green garlic, and nettles. These flavorful ingredients are available for a limited period, highlighting the market’s commitment to showcasing the freshest produce.

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The market also features a vibrant selection of prepared food vendors, including the beloved Mnandi Pies. This returning vendor captivates the taste buds of the community with her delightful Zimbabwean pies, making Mnandi Pies a popular choice among market visitors.

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SaSa Naturals, a non-food artisan vendor, is another highlight of the market. This women-led, family business produces skincare products without the use of harsh chemicals. Their commitment to organic cultivation techniques and incorporation of Indigenous farming practices have made their products highly sought-after among market visitors.

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Another non-food vendor, Crooked Farmz, offers a unique product called “compost tea.” As an urban microfarm located in Toronto, Crooked Farmz specializes in creating small-batch composts and vermicomposts. Compost tea harnesses the power of beneficial microbes found in healthy compost to provide plants with essential nutrients and foster a healthy microbiome.

 

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With all these amazing products and food options, it is no surprise that on its opening day of 2023, Withrow Park was filled with people who cover its grounds with picnic blankets, enjoying the live music playing. The market’s vibrant ambiance will be coming alive this year, every Saturday from June to mid-October, creating a spirited and lively atmosphere that draws in residents and visitors alike. Withrow Park Farmers Market has successfully become a place of joy, community spirit, and togetherness, offering a unique experience and fostering a strong sense of connection among its attendees.

 

Check out the previous photo stories on the Withrow Park Farmers’ Market: