The Innisfil Farmers' Market was bigger and better in its 5th year, with more vendors, live entertainment and special events including a popular buttertart festival on opening weekend.
Volunteers and vendors were honoured with the Entrepreneur of the Year award from the Greater Innisfil Chamber of Commerce recently. Town council recognized the achievement by re-presenting the award at a meeting Wednesday.
The market is held seasonally every Thursday afternoon, and wrapped up its busiest season Oct. 8 this year. Operations are managed by the Innisfil Farmers' Market Committee, comprised of participating vendors, a member of council and town staff.
Over 51% of the participating vendors are identified as "primary producers" personally growing or raising at least 70% of the products they sell.
Vendors are approved for a limited number of spaces each season, based on the products they offer and the number of approved vendors that carry the same products ensuring a variety of products for patrons.
The Innisfil Farmers' Market was was established as an Inspiring Innisfil 2020 Initiative to support local agri-business and provide the residents of Innisfil with a greater opportunity to purchase fresh locally grown foods.
"We are already making plans for next year," Rob Radcliffe, chair of the Farmers' Market Committe, said at the presentation.
