Port Coquitlam, BC, May 3, 2021. . . The Port Coquitlam Farmers Market returns downtown Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m. with a selection of fresh local produce and food. 

Running until Oct. 7, this season’s market will again be located in the parking lots next to Leigh Square to provide additional space for COVID-19 protocols. Measures will include directional signs indicating the one-way entry point near the Leigh Square bandshell. 

“We know many people look forward to the Port Coquitlam Farmers Market every year, and we’re kicking it off earlier this year as part of our May Days celebrations,” said Mayor Brad West. “Although the market has been modified to keep people safe, it continues to be an important community tradition in Port Coquitlam. Make sure to drop in to pick up some fresh, locally grown food while supporting local farmers and businesses.”

The first 200 Port Coquitlam residents who attend the May 6 market opening will receive a voucher for a free do-it-yourself kit including plants and materials to make a hanging basket (one basket per household with ID showing proof of Port Coquitlam residency). 

Held in time for Mother’s Day, the giveaway is part of this year’s May Days festivities and intended to help beautify Port Coquitlam. Residents are encouraged to hang the baskets on their front doorsteps to bring on the colour of spring.

In order to meet COVID-19 health guidelines, the market will again focus on providing access to locally produced food rather than community gathering. Visitors are asked to shop efficiently, not linger, and limit their groups to one or two people. 

Safety measures will include:

• One-way entrance to the market from Leigh Square.
• A requirement for everyone on-site to complete a health self-assessment for COVID-19 symptoms before entering, and return home if they are feeling unwell.
• Directional signage and physical distancing in lineups.
• Reduced touchpoints by having vendors handle and package products selected by customers.
• Encouraging everyone on site to wear a face mask.  

“Farmers Markets are an important part of building community and providing residents with access to affordable, fresh and healthy food choices,” said Cllr. Nancy McCurrach, the Council designate for arts, culture and heritage. 

For those who prefer an online shopping experience, the market will also continue to offer curbside pick-up from the Gathering Place in Leigh Square. 

The Fraser North Farmers Market Society runs the Port Coquitlam Farmers Market on behalf of the City. To purchase online, residents can browse and shop for fresh food and produce at portcoquitlam.ca/farmersmarket and select a pick-up time at the Gathering Place on Thursdays between 3 and 7 p.m. Orders must be submitted by Wednesday by 11:30 a.m. to be ready for pick-up Thursday the same week.

Customer parking will be reserved along Donald Street on Thursday afternoons. The Port Coquitlam Farmers Market and the online food distribution hub is run by the Fraser North Farmers Market Society.

To get updates on what will be available each week, residents are encouraged to sign up for the Farmers Market email newsletter at farmersandmore.org.   

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Admin Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5335 Cel 604.218.0533
Email purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca