Terrace, agricultural roots run deep

Terrace has a long, rich agricultural history shaped by its unique location, geography and climate. Because of it's location in the SkeenaValley, the city derives its name from the natural terraces surrounding the townsite formed by glacial deposits, which provide fertile grounds for cultivation on the valley floor along the Skeena River.

Indigenous peoples have occupied the area for thousands of years, foraging, hunting, fishing and establishing rich forest gardens. The rich soil, mild climate and geographic location has long been resource rich.

Early settlers in the 20th century recognized the potential of the warm summers, welldrained, sandy, loamy soils and began establishing orchards. Historically, small scale farmers successfully cultivated apples, pears, plums, cherries, and various berries. The favorable climatic conditions, characterized by a long frost-free period and relatively high daytime temperatures, contributed to the region's reputation for producing delicious fruits and vegetables.

The region's agricultural significance led to it being referred to as the Okanagan of the North,"highlighting its status as the northernmost area in British Columbia where fruit trees could thrive.

Over time, while large-scale commercial agriculture faced challenges, small-scale farming and non-commercial food production remained integral to the community's lifestyle. Today, local residents continue to plant and harvest their home-based gardens, and cultivate fruits and vegetables.

Today, Terrace's agricultural heritage is preserved through community initiatives like food share programs, seed swapping, hosting farm stands and selling their locally produced vegetables and fruits at the Skeena Valley Farmers Market every Saturday from May to October.

As food security and creating local, sustainable food systems becomes more and more important, this continuation of a long tradition of growing and harvesting food preserves and enhancing a long tradition of gardening in the northwest.

Skeena Valley Farmers Market

Discover local makers, bakers and growers at the Skeena Valley Farmers Market

Locals and visitors from far and wide have Saturday mornings marked in the calendar for a visit to the Skeena Valley Farmers Market. It’s the largest farmers market in northern BC offering an array of locally produced fresh produce, homemade breads, cookies and jams, handcrafted gifts and clothing. If someone has made it, baked it or grown it, you’ll find it here. The festival atmosphere includes delicious food trucks, new and old friends connecting with one another and families taking in live music.

It’s a vibrant and fun experience as downtown’s Market Street bustles with shoppers. Located at George Little Park, the market draws friends and families who enjoy morning picnics as kids play at the playground or having fun at the splash park.

The Farmers Market is an example of how you can engage in sustainable shopping and support local food systems.

Shopping local supports local farmers, bakers and makers and ensures your dollars stay right here in our community, benefiting area residents.

Terrace’s vibrant music scene in intrinsically linked to the market with weekly live music performances by our very own talented musicians, who fill the park with music all morning long.

Open from the first Saturday in May, straight through to the last Saturday in October. You’ll find smiling, friendly faces and all the best that the folks of the Skeena Valley can make, bake, grow and gather from 9am – 1pm.

Check out the website at skeenavalleyfarmersmarket.ca