july-farmers-market

The BC Association of Farmers’ Markets has declared July as Meet My Market month at farmers’ markets across the province. The association is encouraging BC residents to bring a friend to their local farmers’ market to be entered to win giveaways.

“There’s no doubt that people in BC are passionate supporters of their local farmers’ market,” says Elizabeth Quinn, Executive Director at the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets. “We’re encouraging our loyal visitors to introduce a friend to their market – and to show off the beautiful in season foods, and the great neighbourhood experience they love.”Penticton-main-street-farmers-market

Across the province, more than 125 farmers’ markets offer an abundance of locally grown food and locally made goods, along with community fun including live music, children’s activities, cooking classes, artisan workshops and a place for neighbourhoods to come together.

“Farmers’ markets are pretty much a second home for me,” says Rachelle Zelaney, farmer and owner of Zelaney Farms in Vernon. “My family has been growing food for the Vernon community and selling at our local markets for more than 25 years. We’re very excited to meet some new faces at our booth during Meet My Market month in July.”

Funding support for Meet My Market month is provided, in part, by the BC Government’s Buy Local Program; delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC with funding from the BC Ministry of Agriculture, Vancity and the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.

Celebrate Meet My Market month this July to win

Here’s how:

  1. At participating markets: Simply bring a friend to your favourite BC farmers’ market and fill out a ballot at the info booth. Many markets are offering additional incentives such as a free coffee or baked treat.
  2. Via social media: Snap a photo at your favourite BC farmers’ market and post it on social media, tagging @bcfarmersmarket and add #MeetMyMarket to enter. You can also enter via the BCAFM Facebook Page.
  3. All entries will be automatically entered to win one of two grand prizes: A three-night getaway (+ wine touring) for two to Sparkling Hill Resort in the Okanagan. Social media entrants will also be eligible to win one of five weekly random prize draws for $50 to spend at the farmers’ market of their choice.