June 3 is the day many people in the Hespeler community have been eagerly anticipating. The Hespeler Village Market returns after its two-year pandemic hiatus and organizers say it is ready to come back bigger and better than before.
The market has been running since 2016 and takes place every Friday afternoon through late spring and summer. It consists of local vendors who can show up anywhere from once a season to every week.
“We have produce, meat, eggs, and a great honey vendor,” said Gord Whitney, the president of the market board.
They also have some more food vendors, along with craft vendors. Their goal is to have something for everyone. The market is currently working on filling out the rest of its vendor lineup for this season.
The market is located in the heart of downtown Hespeler. Locals enjoy the location as it’s easy to access no matter where you live in Hespeler.
“We love attending the market and we’re excited it’s back up and running,” said Shelly Norman, who visits it often. “It really gives the downtown core some jump heading into the weekend.”
The market is important to the city as it helps boost the economy.
“We’re providing a forum, first of all, for our customers to buy local food,” said Whitney. “And secondly, for our local vendors.”
In addition to helping the local economy, it also fosters a great sense of community.
“The people can come and buy cool stuff, like food and crafts,” said Whitney. “We also offer entertainment.”
Many locals enjoy buying from the market rather than big box stores for multiple reasons.
“Supporting local means everything. I’d much rather buy from the local vendors because that money goes back into the community,” said Norman.
Although not operating through COVID-19 was a challenge, the market is looking forward to getting up and running. The feedback from locals and vendors has only been positive.
“We’ve worked hard and added some new stuff, but it speaks to the community,” said Whitney.
“One of the best parts of the weather getting warmer is the market opening,” said Norman. “Having something to attend every week is exciting.”
As the opening day looms, the market participants could not be more excited to see all the locals every Friday. They are expecting a big turn-out on June 3.
