With an emphasis on celebrating local growers, the Penticton Farmers' Market returned for its 34th year.
Thousands of people visited the more than 60 vendors for the market season's opening day in the 100-block of downtown Penticton on Saturday (April 19).
"It's always been important to support local but now it's vital," said assistant market manager Philip Solman, referring to the U.S.-Canada trade war. "We have to put money back in our own economy and make the money go round."
Deep-fried bread and samosas were among the new items Penticton market-goers purchased on Saturday. Vendors were also selling coffee, radishes, lettuce, pottery and more.
A self-described "big-city guy," Solman said it's important for people to engage with local farmers and reflect on the "crucial work" they do every day.
"When you work and interact with farmers, you get a better understanding of what a tough job farming can be and that they need to make a living," Solman said. "We need to support them because who's going to grow our food if we don't?"
At its peak during the summer months, the Penticton Farmers' Market typically welcomes more than 100 vendors to Main Street.
Noting recent challenges related to weather and economic uncertainty moving forward, the market's assistant manager stressed the need to support those growing local food across the region.
"Buy what they can grow," Solman said. "When the weather destroys it all, then you'll appreciate farmers more and learn what they have to put up with every single year."
The Penticton Farmers' Market runs every Saturday until late October, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
A non-profit organization, the local farmers' market is encouraging people to continue to support the event.
"It's even more important now," Solman added.
