To many Calgarians, local produce means a juicy T-bone steak, but the truth is this city is teeming with organic, farm-fresh offerings from the surrounding areas. Summer offers a bonanza of farmers markets, which offers fruits and veggies alongside cheeses, prepared foods – and, yes, beef. We present the city’s top markets.
Millarville
It’s worth the trip to this sprawling countryside market just for the local corn on the cob, which comes drenched in homemade butter. Organic fruit from Bench Lands Orchards and Sticky Situation’s jams and salsas only sweeten the deal. Sat., 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at race track, just off Highway 22.
Calgary Farmers Market
Set inside a former Canadian Forces aircraft hangar, the CFM lures shoppers with Phil & Sebastian Coffee Company’s artisanal espresso, but succulent cuts from Valta Bison Farms and super-fresh fish from North Sea Fish Market keep them coming back. Fri. – Sun., 9 a.m. – 4 or 5 p.m.., H6, 4421 Quesnay Wood Dr. S.W.
The Hillhurst-Sunnyside Farmers Market
At this bustling summer market, bohemian babes balance vice – local free-range sausage from Spragg’s – with virtue – fresh produce from the Student Fruit Stand. Wed., 3:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., 1320 5th Ave. NW.
Crossroads Market
This 100,000 square foot market has it all: Near-perfect Cajun perogies at Ukrainian Fine Foods; Hutterite-made curiosities at the flea market; bountiful (and cheap) produce at Chongo’s; timeless desserts at Simple Simon Pie, and more. Fri. – Sun., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., 1235 26 Ave. SE.
Image courtesy of D’Arcy Norman.
