SASKATOON — In 2025, the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market is kind of a big dill. That’s because they are marking five decades of farm-to-table products under their tagline, “Make It, Bake It, Gather It, Grow It.”
The member-owned, non-profit co-operative has been blending flavours and friendship since 1975. The market connects Saskatoon residents and visitors with local producers of high-quality products, from produce to baking to crafts and other diverse goods.
Its humble beginnings included various locations such as city hall and River Landing, but now the market calls Koyl Avenue home, enabling year-round operations. The group is thrilled to be celebrating innovation, collaboration and success in their efforts.
A random survey of shoppers of all ages revealed people come to this unique weekly shopping opportunity because they like to know where their food comes from, they love supporting local, and they enjoy the atmosphere of mingling with like-minded shoppers as well as chatting in person with producers.
Vendors such as Val Celezny of Simply Delicious, who has been part of the market for 32 years, say the social opportunity is one of the main reasons they continue. Celezny has been sharing her home-baked creations year-round.
Farmers’ markets provide multiple benefits, including supporting local economies, offering access to fresh and nutritious food, and promoting environmental sustainability. Supporting local farmers and businesses creates jobs and keeps money within the community. Locally grown produce is fresher and often more nutrient-rich because of shorter transportation times, with much of the product going straight from field or vine to market tables. Shorter travel distances also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Cam, a city apartment resident, says the market is an ideal option since he has limited space to grow his own vegetables.
Serving as secretary for the market, Dixon Simpkins says his family has been part of the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market for all 50 years.
“It started with my grandfather, uncle, dad and other members of the family and has continued as a family operation. What keeps us coming back? It’s a nice way to make a living,” says Simpkins.
He says they used to attend more markets across the city but now stick to this one, also supplying produce to various restaurants.
Asked what it feels like to be part of all five decades, Simpkins responds, “It feels like quite an accomplishment and we are still here today with family members working, as it’s truly a family affair.”
Like other vendors, Simpkins is one of the year-round vendors — a feature many shoppers say is key to the market’s staying power.
SaskToday spoke with Lil, a senior who no longer has space to garden. She says she loves being able to buy fresh produce in season at the market.
More about the market is available at www.saskatoonfarmersmarket.com or on their Facebook page.
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