Downtown Nelson Local Market back with bells on Wednesday
By Nelson Daily Staff
It’s so close the public can taste the product ready for sale as the Downtown Nelson Local Market returns for another season, beginning Wednesday (June 12).
The market, hosted by the West Kootenay EcoSociety, operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the 400 block of Baker Street.
Entering its fourth year of operation, the Downtown Nelson Local Market operates weekly until September 25, offering a mix of fresh local produce, plants, prepared foods, body care products, and hand-made arts and crafts. At least 80 percent of each vendor’s wares must be made or grown locally.
EcoSociety’s Markets Director Jesse R. Woodward will work with vendors, business owners, and city agencies to ensure the market’s success.
“We’re thrilled with the response from vendors, the city, and businesses along Baker Street,” Woodward said in a statement.
“The Downtown Market is completely sold out again this year, with over twenty five vendors on the waiting list,” Woodward adds. “Customers will really appreciate the quality and diversity of the offerings at the market, especially in combination with Baker Street’s amazing retail selection.”
Woodward said the City of Nelson’s downtown and waterfront working group recently hosted a webinar that emphasized the benefits of having a public market in the downtown core.
Research shows that 60 percent of market customers shop at local retailers and restaurants when they come to the market, and that 60 percent of those customers would not have otherwise patronized the retail establishment.
“We’re excited about working with Baker Street retailers to find ways for them to take advantage of all the potential customers during the market,” said Woodward.
Five alternative vendor stalls and other rotating spots will allow the market to offer even more vendor selection and variety.
The market will once again be generally organized into product sections that should make it easier for customers to navigate the market and find what they need.
Eggs and honey will be available to complement seasonal fruits and vegetables from the region.
Crafts will include hand-made hats and glass work, locally made clothing and jewellery, and an array of body and home care products.
The EcoSociety also runs the Saturday Cottonwood Community Market at Cottonwood Falls Park, and MarketFest, the monthly Friday night street festivals that take place on June 28, July 26 and August 23.
