SHOPPING
ON THE
Freshold waitlist of hopeful potential vendors, eager for the possibility of joining the close-knit community. This summer, OSFM is expanding its footprint to include an outdoor promenade with additional vendors, food trucks, and entertainment.They are also in planning mode for the next year not only for renovations, but to eventually expand the one-day market to a seven-day venue. “None of these things are huge money makers,” says Persaud. “We’re not for profit. We just want to make sure our vendors have more opportunities to sell, and it’s kind of cool if you can teach other people how to do this industry.”
Year-round, Sat 8 am–3 pm @ 83 Ave. & 103 St. osfm.ca
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infoedmonton.com
PHOTOS: OLD STRATHCONA FARMERS' MARKET
When the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market first launched in 1983, there were 10–15 vendors in a parking lot—now, Edmonton's original year-round indoor farmers' market features over 130 vendors. As they approach their 40th year, the OSFM is just getting started. As an Alberta Approved Farmers' Market, they lean heavily into the philosophy of "make it, bake it, grow it, sell it,” with 95% of the goods sold following those guidelines. “We live by that more than most,” says Keith Persaud, OSFM market manager. “We’re a tough market to get into.” The market currently features 127 vendors— about 80% selling food or food products and 20% including various artisans and goods—but Persaud wishes it could be more. There is currently a
