Did you know that Nova Scotia is home to the most farmers markets per capita in all of Canada?
There are over 40 weekly farmers markets across the province from Sydney to Yarmouth and everywhere in between. About one quarter of the markets are open year round as well.
Nova Scotian farmers markets feature everything from fresh produce to baked goods, meats, fresh seafood, locally roasted coffees and mixed teas, artisans and crafters, food to go vendors, knife sharpeners, locally made pet food vendors, florists, food trucks, chocolatiers, sea salt makers, candle makers and so much more.
While each farmers market is great for its own reasons here is a list of some of the must visit farmers markets around Nova Scotia:
Antigonish Farmers Market
The Antigonish Farmers Market is the kind of market where you have to be prepared to spend a lot of money because every vendor is so tempting.
From delicious rhubarb juice to fresh lobster rolls, homemade hummus, locally grown meats, salad mixes, artisans selling everything from whale shaped charcuterie boards to earrings made of fishing lures, oatcakes, and even the most delicious fresh made donuts.
You might be tempted to spend a lot here but you are supporting local businesses so it is of course more than worth it!
Market times: Saturdays May – Dec 8:30 AM – 1 PM Jan – Apr 10 AM – 1 PM
Halifax Brewery Farmers Market
There has been a farmers market in Halifax since 1750 and although its location has changed it has been the longest continuously running farmers market in all of North America.
With its most recent move in 2010 it split into two becoming the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market and the Halifax Brewery Farmers Market. Both are excellent markets with some of the top vendors in the city however the Brewery Market located in the 200 year old Alexander Keith’s building has a lot of charm and is the place to be seen on Saturday mornings in Halifax.
Vendors can be found throughout the building every which way you turn. Bring your reusable shopping bags, some cash and show up early to get the very best.
Market times: Year round every Saturday from 8am to 1pm
Kingston Farmers Market
Located in the Annapolis Valley the Kingston Farmers market is a true community collaboration where all of the vendors seem to be best friends. Located in a field at the Aurora Inn in Kingston this market is unique in that it takes place on Thursday afternoons. Also being located right in the Annapolis Valley that means it is bursting at the seams with the freshest produce imaginable from just down the street.
This market also features live music, a play area for kids, local food trucks and even a picnic area to enjoy the foods you just bought. Visit for fresh food, unique desserts, Asian delights and so much more.
Market times: June to September every Thursday from 3-7pm
NS Farmers Market tip: Many of the farmers markets use “Market Bucks” so in case you don’t have cash on you and that is all a vendor accepts, just find the main market table and they can sell you with debit or credit market bucks that you can then spend right there just like cash
