If you live in Abbotsford and you haven't folded a farmers market into your week, you're leaving one of the best parts of the city on the table. Here's what to expect, when to go, and how to spot the good ones.
Peak season runs May through October. June strawberries and August corn are worth planning your Saturday around; winter markets still show up with squash, apples, root veg, honey and preserves.
Bring a tote and a little cash. Most vendors take cards these days, but the odd cash-only stall still turns up — usually the one with the best honey.
Beyond the fruit and veg, the regulars are local honey, farm eggs, cut flowers, sourdough and baked goods, preserves, and prepared-food stalls that make a strong case for skipping breakfast at home.
Buy what's in season and you'll eat better for less — strawberries in June are a different fruit than the clamshell ones in February.
Saturday morning is the main event at most markets — typically 8 or 9am to early afternoon. A lot of cities now run a smaller Wednesday or Thursday evening market too, which is great if weekends are chaos. Canada doesn't have one big federal directory, so the Dayfari app is honestly the faster way to see what's on this weekend.
Market days and hours change with the season — the Dayfari app keeps track of what's actually on around Abbotsford this weekend, plus other local events worth the trip.