Codrington Farmers' Market. /Facebook photo
Nestled along County Road 30 lies the heartbeat of Codrington on Sunday mornings starting in May.
And the jewel known as the Codrington Farmers’ Market will return in 2024 while marking a monumental 10 years.
Liana Palmer is treasurer and one of seven who power the volunteer farmers’ market committee – she was also key in bringing to life the market and its evolution.
Reflecting on the market’s humble roots, it wasn’t a sure thing, recalled Palmer.
Over the years, the market has grown to become a unique rural gem and success story, attracting more vendors, ultimately making it one of the region’s “premier weekly destinations.”
And it’s become so much more than just a market or a place to pick up fresh produce as shoppers are surrounded by artisans, musicians, and more.
In 2024, Codrington will host about 23 farmer/food vendors and another 20 or so artisans, who will be set up on the grass on the west side of the market location at 2992 County Rd. 30.
The market offers up everything from fresh veggies and fruits, to flowers, honeys, and syrups – even authentic Thai food and wood-fired pizza through snack vendors, as well as one-of-a-kind gift options through the artisans, who work with wood, stained glass, and so much more. The artisans all make their own products, and there is such a wonderful selection of everything handmade, explained Palmer.
What’s more, anniversary fun is planned throughout the season. Special events will be held monthly, said Palmer, hinting a larger celebration will be held closer to September more in line with the harvest season.
But before then, there will be special Mother’s Day and Father’s Day events (where you can find gifts for mom and pops, too.)
Along the way, there could be some axe-throwing fun and special family-themed days.
The market also continues to make room for charitable causes through Campbellford Memorial Hospital and pet rescues, to name just a few. This is a large part of the market’s mission, noted Palmer.
This year, residents from area retirement homes can also access the bus quick to hit up the market.
Residents can mingle with vendors, discover new local foods and treats, maybe have a seat at the picnic tables under the shelter if they want, while enjoying a snack and live music, explained Palmer, adding this is simply a way for residents to get out without having to spend a lot of money.
Located in the rural area, the Codrington market isn’t like other area markets often found in downtowns – people sort of have to make a “special trip” out of it.
“That’s why we try and make it an event, rather than just a place to pick up some groceries, and that’s why we always have the live music and the artisans, special events, et cetera.”
Palmer credits successes over the years to the market’s loyal customers eager to support area farmers and artists – even when vendors were selling out of the trunks of their cars during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The other thing that’s been a bonus for us is that we operate on municipal property, and (the Municipality of Brighton), the mayor, council, (and) staff have always from Day 1 been highly supportive of everything we do …”
Opening day is Sunday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market will continue Sundays into October.
“There’s something for everybody at the market and we just love to have everybody,” said Palmer.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
