St. Norbert Farmers' Market draws big crowd on opening weekend

The St. Norbert Farmers' Market opened for the first time of the season amid sunny skies and hot temperatures Saturday.

Brian Kozaktook in the first day at the market this season. He and his family visit the market on a weekly basis throughout the summer.

"I'm enjoying the sunshine and I just like getting fresh Manitoban-grown vegetables and herbs," he said. "We don't have a cottage, butwe enjoy coming here for a few hours every Saturday."

Marilyn Firth, executive director of the market, said opening day went on without a hitch.

"We had a really, really beautiful day," she said. "Mother Nature has been extremely kind, the Manitoba public has been extremely kind."

There wasa record-number 109 vendors set up and sellingfresh produce, among other items, on opening day, Firth said.

After 28 years, Firth said Saturday's big turnout shows Manitobansare only growing more interested in buying locally-made goods.

"It's a great community gathering space. People like to come out, it's a great place to meet your friends, have a coffee, sit and listen to the music and enjoy what Manitoba producers are creating."

The St. Norbert Farmers' Market is open Saturdays betweenMay 21 andOct.29, from8a.m. to3 p.m., and Wednesdays from May 25 to Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.