Though the City Market is our neighbourhood farmers’ market, Mack and I love exploring other markets. Edmonton’s newest market in Highlands debuted tonight, and we wanted to see what it was all about.
Highlands Farmers’ Market
Located in a small parking lot on 112 Avenue and 65 Street, the Highlands Market is a modest, community-based gathering of vendors. It seems to be less ambitious than the 124 Street Grand Market, but is a good size for the neighbourhood. We asked about the time of the market (short in duration, only 7-9pm, and the only market to start at so late an hour), and it turns out the business next door that lends the use of the parking lot agreed to those terms. Though we initially weren’t sure about such a brief time frame, it might work well for customers who desire being the early bird without skipping dinner first, and for vendors who need to get back to the farm.
Small but lots of heart
With just over a dozen vendors, the selection of products isn’t extensive, but there are a number of solid vendors. Sundog Organics and Tree Stone in particular are draws, each cultivating devotees from other parts of the city.
Sundog Organics
Tree Stone (without signage, curiously)
Creole Envie, a new catering business and restaurant (which opens its physical location tomorrow at 15120 Stony Plain Road) offering up Creole and Cajun flavours, will also be a consistent presence, as will Sugared & Spiced a new home-based bakery that specializes in cookies. We tried the blueberry oatmeal cookie (soft with just the right amount of sweetness) and the cinnamon bun (good texture and loved the icing!). I can imagine they will do business like gangbusters for the after-dinner crowd!
Danielle from Creole Envie
Jeff from Sugared & Spiced
The weekly vendor lists (with all dates until the end of September) are online, a great tool for shoppers deciding which of the four Thursday night markets to visit (124 Street, Alberta Avenue and Salisbury are the other three). I imagine with this competition, it will be even more imperative for markets to keep this information up to date. Highlands also steps it up a notch with a “Lovin’ the Market” button, which patrons can purchase for $10. The proceeds support the market, but the button provides shoppers with discounts on specific items from five vendors each week (for example, Tree Stone’s baguette was on special for button holders). It’s an interesting way to reward loyal visitors.
We also took the opportunity to peruse some of the area’s shops (open late as a part of Late Night on the Ave), as I think many market patrons did as well. All in all, it was a great way to spend a beautiful summer evening –I encourage you to check it out in the weeks to come!
Highlands Farmers’ Market, open from June 7 – September 27, 7-9pm, 112 Avenue & 65 Street
Only Here for the Food 
You missed a Thursday night market! Mill Woods: http://www.millwoodsfarmersmarket.com/
Hi there. Thanks for coming out to visit the Highlands and for the wonderful review of our first Highlands Outdoor Farmer’s Market. Your words are much appreciated and we are glad you had a good time!!!
Thank you for sharing this lovely review. More vendors will be added weekly… we’re looking forward to the increased selection and happy to be part of the community of merchants across the street. Congrats Highlands Outdoor Farmer’s Market on a great opening night. ~Apple Box Boutique Inc.
Great Support for a great community Thank You!!