It’s been a decade since the Haney Farmers Market Society set up a farmers’ market in downtown Port Coquitlam.
And for this milestone year — which opens Thursday — organizers say they’ll bring in more Tri-City vendors as well as extend the season into mid October for the 1,500 weekly shoppers.
Market manager Aynsley Wong Meldrum said the list of sellers is growing: More than 45 producers have already signed up to sell their wares around the bandshell at the Leigh Square Community Arts Village.
New for this year include West Coast Cider — joining Dragon Mist Distillery, Fraser Valley Cider and Persephone Brewing — as well as Farizah’s Baklava, Jerk Store, Two Bald Bakers and PoCo Soap Co.
Familiar Port Coquitlam businesses Western Sky Books, Maria’s Homestyle Perogies and Hibiscus Foods (known for their Jamaican patties) will also continue to serve market customers as in years past.
“Shoppers are looking for local food and the ability to have a conversation with producers and farmers,” Wong Meldrum said, adding, “They want kids’ activities and ways to plug into organizations.”
Mayor Greg Moore, who officially opens the market on June 7 at 4 p.m. by cutting the traditional giant carrot cake, said the market has been a major draw, highlighting Tri-City firms in a festive atmosphere.
“It brings the community together,” he said, noting the themes and entertainment. “It’s more than just a market.”
Sponsored by the city, Downtown Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association and Vancity, the market will run longer this year, until mid October and the city will install lights as the days get shorter.
Meanwhile, on June 14, shoppers are encouraged to cycle the market to receive a $2 discount coupon; Trek Bikes will also be on site to offer complimentary tune-ups via its mobile station, Wong Meldrum said.
• The PoCo Farmers’ Market runs Thursdays from June 7 to Oct. 11 from 3 to 7 p.m. in Leigh Square Community Arts Village (beside PoCo city hall). Visit portcoquitlamfarmersmarket.org.

