Those of you who love taking in community and farmers markets across the province will be happy to hear about an open house happening this Saturday, in regards to a new, year-round, indoor farmers market in Gasoline Alley.

The first of its kind in Central Alberta, this market would offer a place for local producers and artisans to sell their goods year-round.

Business Development Officer for Red Deer County Tara March says the sizes of the approximately 48 booth spaces and six kitchens of the proposed building will vary, but it's open to anyone who wants to sell their goods.

“A farmers market, traditionally, is an incubator right? So it helps small businesses boom and hopefully expand. As far as our local producers, it’s really just a matter of the smaller producers just getting their product to market. So certainly it is open to all.”

The open house for anyone interested in setting up a booth, or if you just want more information, will be held this Saturday starting at 2:00 pm, at the Hamlets of Red Deer in Gasoline Alley.

March says they've been hearing from residents for years about having a year-round spot for markets as they have in other places across the province.

“This will be the first in Central Alberta. Calgary and Edmonton have year-round farmers' markets and they have been extremely successful and embraced by their community. We felt that it was time for Central Alberta to do the same, and we do feel that there is a market for it.”

 

From Red Deer County:

Red Deer County Economic Development is pleased to invite local agricultural producers and artisans to a special open house regarding a new indoor farmer’s market in Gasoline Alley.

The open house will take place at the Hamlets of Red Deer in Gasoline Alley at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 22. There will be opportunities for attendees to hear from the prospective owners and ask questions. Details about the facility will be available for anyone interested.

Red Deer County Mayor Jim Wood stated, “We are very excited to have this facility coming to Gasoline Alley. It will be a tremendous opportunity for local producers and artists to gain access to new customers and showcase the wonderful products we have right here in our own back yard.”

Shelley Bradshaw of Becks Farms and part of the Innisfail Growers group commented, “This new and exciting market is just another opportunity to help maintain and create important social ties, linking rural and urban populations through items made and grown in this region.”

There is no charge to attend this open house. For more information on this exciting opportunity, contact Red Deer County Planning and Development at 403.350.2170 or visit rdcounty.ca

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