ByWard and Parkdale outdoor markets open for the season

Ottawa residents can now savour the homegrown flavours on offer in the ByWard and Parkdale markets. These outdoor markets have opened for the season, offering local produce, seasonal plants, flowers, and more.

This year, visitors to the ByWard Market can enjoy food samples and new recipes at the Demo Corner or stop by the Savour Ottawa Farm Stand for an array of locally produced goods like eggs, meat and dairy. Local artisans also sell handmade art and crafts. Established in 1826, this is Ottawa’s oldest public market, conveniently located near major retail shops, local eateries and food retailers. Produce vendors in the ByWard Market will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. until November, rain or shine. Arts and crafts vendors operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or later, until Thanksgiving.

The Parkdale Market vendors sell a wide variety of fresh produce and flowers. It’s also home to the Parkdale Fieldhouse, which is the pick-up location for another way to bring home local flavours: Savour Ottawa Online. The market is adjacent to a park where visitors will find community-run events and activities throughout the season, including ArtsPark in May and HarvestFest in September. The market is open every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. until November.

This Saturday, visitors can stop by the Master Gardeners’ tables at either market to get free gardening advice from the pros. In the ByWard Market, the Demo Corner will feature asparagus recipes. Other ByWard Market attractions this weekend include stilt walkers, horse-wagon rides and a hot-air balloon on display.