Cape Breton has a new farmers market which means a fun, healthy, local shopping experience can become the newest Saturday afternoon pass-time for CBRM residents.
The goal of the Downtown Sydney Farmer’s Market, as stated in its regulations, is to be self sustaining without reliance on external funding in order to promote and encourage the establishment of small-scale, sustainable, local producers and provide the community with fresh, healthy food. The new Downtown Sydney Farmer’s Market stresses the importance of organic and sustainable farming practices for its primary producers and promises a freshly baked good from scratch. They also invite crafters and artisans to hock their wares although food vendors must maintain over fifty percent of the presence on the market floor. This isn’t some Duncan Hines’ flea market folks.
Personally I see the initiative of a new market in Sydney’s downtown core an immensely important step towards the economic development of the region. If our generation is truly taking our first steps towards a “green” future where our ecological footprint is limited to Cape Breton farmers’ fields and urban green spaces, we have to put our money where our mouth is. It just so happens that this business venture, a movement away from factory farms and imported foods is a delicious cause that doesn’t tax us to support. One of the highest concentrated residential areas in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality is within walking distance of Sydney’s downtown, encouraging a lower carbon output and active lifestyle, while businesses in the area can look forward to increased economic activity as the population moves towards Bentinck St. to purchase their groceries.
If you are interested in buying some delicious local goods and maybe warm your toes with some hand-made merino wool socks come to St. Andrew’s Hall, 40 Bentinck St., Sydney from 1-4pm on Saturday. There’s ample free parking in the Aliant parking lot, or take an eco-friendly stroll to this local event. If you are a potential vendor and wish take part you can email: sydneyfarmersmarket@gmail.com
This Saturday, February 26th will be the official inaugural market afternoon so come out and support local commerce.
