Charlottetown among three top Maritime farmer’s markets

Charlottetown Farmer's Market

Stephen Pate, NJN Network, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada, May 18 2009 with story from CBC and Canadian Geographic

Charlottetown, Fredericton and Halifax are among the ten best farmer’s markets in Canada according to Canadian Geographic Magazine. Publishing in it’s May issue it said of the three.

“Charlottetown Farmers Market
In Prince Edward Island, potatoes are a food group. Head to the Springwillow Farms booth for a sack of Island Sunset spuds, a delicious, buttery-fleshed potato with a skin that keeps its pinkish hue when cooked. Another must: Kim Dormaar’s world-famous smoked salmon, or his smoked eel. Also: delicious blueberries in season. Open Saturdays, year round, plus Wednesdays in July and August. (902) 626-3373″

The author missed the convivial and hospitable atmosphere which the habitué of the Charlottetown Farmer’s Market enjoy.  Locals and visitors congregate around tables and discuss the weather, politics, arts and life. The best tables will introduce you to someone new each week.

“W. W. Boyce Market Farmers’ Market, Fredericton
A must-experience market for both its atmosphere and its food. Just try to resist Oven Head smoked Fundy salmon and salmon jerky, Patel’s samosas (made with New Brunswick potatoes) and cheeses from Armadale Farms in the heart of the province’s dairy region. Open Saturdays, year round. (506) 451-1815;  www.boycefarmersmarket.com”

“Paul Stapleton, president of the Boyce Farmers’ Market, was thrilled with the recognition.”

“We couldn’t afford to buy that kind of advertising for the market to be written up as one of the top 10 in the country in a magazine that has such a wide circulation,” Stapleton said.

“Stapleton said an advisory board will be organized to look at ways to make the farmers’ market in Fredericton even better. ” CBC

“Halifax Farmers’ Market
Founded in 1750, it’s the oldest continuously running farmers’ market in North America. It’s also one of my all-time favourites, thanks to its exceptional vendors. That Dutchman’s Farm sells a renowned blue cheese called Dragon’s Breath, which is perfect on certified organic French bread from Boulangerie La Vendéenne, and pick up an Acadian meat pie from Heppy’s. Open Saturday mornings, year round. (902) 492-4043; www.halifaxfarmersmarket.com”