(photo: City of Burnaby, https://www.burnaby.ca/)

Every Saturday morning, I head to a different farmers market in Metro Vancouver for my groceries. It’s more than just shopping. I do it to support local vendors, bring home fresh food, and spend a bit of time outside with my family.

My kids enjoy it too. Some weekends they’re playing in the park nearby, other times they’re just focused on grabbing pastries or yogurt from their favourite stalls. It’s become something we do together — no rush, no big plan — just a nice way to start the day.

We’ve found a few go-to markets that work well for us. Here are some we keep going back to:

• Burnaby Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, 9am–2pm at Burnaby City Hall)
  A good variety of produce, baked goods, and music. Always feels welcoming.
  Info: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/market/burnaby-farmers-market/
• Brentwood Farmers’ Market (Sundays, 10am–2pm near Brentwood Station)
  Smaller but really easy to get to, especially if you’re hopping off the SkyTrain.
  Info: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/market/brentwood-farmers-market/
• West End Farmers Market (Saturdays, 9am–2pm at 1100 Comox St)
  A relaxed neighbourhood market with everything from fruit to bread to flowers.
  Info: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/market/west-end-farmers-market/
• Downtown Farmers Market (Thursdays, 11am–3pm at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza)
  Not on the weekend, but a good mid-week stop if you’re already downtown.
  Info: https://eatlocal.org/markets/downtown/
• Granville Island Public Market (Open daily, 9am–7pm)
  A solid option any day. Great variety and something for everyone.
  Info: https://granvilleisland.com/directory/granville-island-public-market

Shopping local helps keep our communities going. So if you haven’t been to a market in a while, check one out. BUY BC, support local farmers and makers, and get better quality food at the same time.

And bring your own bags — trust me, you’ll leave with more than you planned.