Farmers’ markets aren’t just about fresh veggies and homemade jam, they’re bustling hubs of creativity, learning and opportunity—especially for kids with big ideas and families looking for fun ways to connect!
Here on Vancouver Island, these markets are more than a place to shop—they’re spaces where young entrepreneurs can test out business ideas and families can enjoy a day of exploring, tasting and supporting local businesses. Whether it’s a budding artist selling handcrafted jewelry or a young baker offering cookies fresh from the oven, farmers’ markets provide real-world lessons in business, creativity and community.
So, let’s dive into why these markets are a great experience for young entrepreneurs and a fantastic way for families to spend time together.
Get creative. Whether it’s painted driftwood, homemade beeswax candles or fresh-baked dog treats, kids can see how they can turn their hobbies into a business.
Get money smart. Encourage kids to ask how makers set their prices and help them figure out profit margins. Then give your kids a specific amount of money to spend and help them with the budget so they can buy what they truly want.
Support local and sustainable business. Buying and selling handmade, homegrown or eco-friendly goods teaches kids about ethical entrepreneurship and the importance of shopping locally.
Meet the growers and makers. Kids can ask farmers how carrots grow, learn where their honey comes from or chat with an artisan about soap-making.
Taste the many flavours of the island. From fresh-picked berries to warm, flaky pastries and fresh pressed juice, local markets offer incredible food that kids (and parents) will love.
Vancouver Island is home to some of the best farmers’ markets in BC, and many of them are perfect for families and young business minds. Here are a few of our favourites from all over the island.
Moss Street Market (Victoria)
This large market carries almost everything you can dream of! It runs year-round and even features a Young Entrepreneurs Market, where kids can sell their own products and gain real business experience. mossstreetmarket.com
Duncan Farmers’ Market
This is one of the biggest markets on the island—and it’s open 50 weeks of the year (closed for two weeks at Christmas). With over 150 vendors, it’s the perfect place for families to explore and for young business owners to see how local entrepreneurs thrive. duncanfarmersmarket.ca
Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market
Here’s another market that’s open year-round and one people travel from all over the island to visit. This market is strictly “Make it, Bake it, Grow it,” meaning everything is locally made or grown—a great place for kids to learn about ethical business practices. qbfarmersmarket.com
Errington Farmers’ Market
This charming market may only be open from May to September every year, but it’s been going strong for over 50 years! Located in a beautiful, shady forest setting, it’s a favourite for families and often features local youth selling their crafts, baked goods and homegrown produce. erringtonfarmersmarket.ca
Comox Valley Farmers’ Market
The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market holds a year-round market every Saturday in Courtenay and a seasonal market in Cumberland, as well as various vendor and special events across the Comox Valley. This market is a must-visit for food lovers and a fantastic place for kids to get inspired by local vendors. cvfm.ca
Sidney Street Market
Probably the ultimate summer market! Every Thursday evening from June until September, the Sidney Street Market transforms Sidney into a lively street festival, with vendors, live music, delicious food and a ton of fun for everyone. sidney.ca
Salt Spring Saturday Market
From April to October, head to Ganges on a Saturday morning to pick up your local produce and freshly baked goods. Check out the handmade clothes and all the arts and crafts from talented locals of all ages. saltspringmarket.com
Cedar Farmers’ Market (Nanaimo)
Located just outside of Nanaimo, the Cedar Farmers’ Market runs from May until October every year. Featuring special programs to benefit local agriculture and nutrition programs that support youth and local families, it’s the perfect place to explore food, crafts and beauty products. cedarfarmersmarket.org
Farmers’ markets on Vancouver Island are so much more than a place to shop. They’re places where families connect, kids learn valuable skills and young entrepreneurs take their first steps into the world of business. So, whether your child dreams of selling their own handmade goodies, or you’re just looking for a fun weekend activity, grab a tote bag and head to your nearest farmers’ market.
