Events
Local Farmers’ Market Celebrates 25 Years with Special Events
Special performances, guest vendors, and cooking demos are planned to mark the market’s long-standing role in community sustainability and culture.
Published: April 30, 2025 at 20:56
By: By Stephanie Hickman, Great White Press
The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market is celebrating a major milestone this month with a series of special events to mark its 25th anniversary. The market, renowned for its local produce, handmade goods, and vibrant community spirit, will host performances, culinary demos, and interactive exhibits throughout the week.
Founded in 2000, the market has grown from a small gathering of vendors into a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and economic life. It now supports over 150 vendors year-round, offering everything from organic vegetables and fresh seafood to jewelry, baked goods, and specialty crafts.
Anniversary events kicked off Saturday morning with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and traditional Mi’kmaq drumming ceremony to honor the region’s Indigenous heritage. Mayor Lydia Armstrong praised the market’s evolution and its role in connecting city dwellers with rural producers.
Visitors were treated to live music from Nova Scotia folk artists, cooking demonstrations using seasonal ingredients, and a historical photo exhibit showcasing the market’s transformation over the years. “It’s amazing to see how much it’s changed and yet stayed rooted in community,” said longtime vendor Ingrid Shea.
For the anniversary week, several vendors are offering limited-edition products, including blueberry preserves made from heirloom recipes and hand-thrown pottery featuring a commemorative 25-year stamp. Shoppers can also participate in a passport challenge that encourages visits to different stalls.
The market has faced its share of challenges, including changing locations, adapting to public health restrictions during the pandemic, and competing with larger retail chains. But organizers credit its resilience to the loyalty of Halifax residents and the adaptability of its small business owners.
“There’s a personal connection here that you just don’t get in a supermarket,” said vendor Ahmed Malik, who sells handmade spice blends. “People know our names, they know our stories—it’s not just a transaction.”
As part of the celebration, the market launched a mentorship program that pairs new entrepreneurs with veteran vendors to support skill-sharing and sustainable business growth. The initiative is funded through a grant from the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture.
Children's activities, including storytelling sessions and a “Market Explorers” scavenger hunt, have been popular with families attending the event. On Sunday, the market will host a cake-cutting ceremony and present community awards to recognize vendors and volunteers who have made significant contributions.
The market’s success has sparked renewed interest in urban agriculture and local food systems. Officials are exploring opportunities to replicate the model in other areas, particularly underserved neighborhoods where access to fresh, affordable food remains limited.
Beyond its economic impact, the market is also a hub for civic engagement, hosting voter registration drives, cultural festivals, and environmental awareness campaigns throughout the year.
With crowds flowing through its aisles and music echoing through the waterfront pavilion, the 25th anniversary is more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to the enduring value of community-driven spaces in an ever-changing cityscape.