Time running out to shop at Okanagan, Kamloops outdoor farmers’ markets

There may be no spring chickens left, but outdoor farmers' markets are still going strong for another week in Kamloops and the Okanagan.

“Basically you can still get the same stuff you can find all summer,” farmers' market co-ordinator for Kelowna and Vernon, Frances Callaghan said. “There are still quite a lot of options – potatoes, carrots, leeks, beets, greens, micro greens, eggs, meats, artisans and lots of baking.”

Some vendors are still selling strawberries, which first come into season around mid-June – while “fall produce,” such as pumpkins, squash, pumpkins and turnip – is only available this time or year, Callaghan said.

Vendors continue to show up in strong numbers – she’s expecting more than 100 for the final market in Kelowna and around 60 in Vernon.

READ MORE: Kelowna restaurant survives by becoming cafe, farmer’s market

Comparing the two markets Callaghan co-ordinates, she notices Kelowna has more bakers and concession trucks, whereas Vernon has more farmers and agricultural options. Both markets will move to indoor locations after the final outdoor event of the year.

It's a similar scene up at the Kamloops farmer's market. The produce is still bountiful, said market manager Greg Unger, adding that it's a good time of year for kale. And the coffee and donut trucks are extra popular this time of year.

"Apples are a big late season product," Unger said. "They typically only start showing up in September, so we still have them in abundance."

As the season for outdoor markets reaches so close to Halloween, one particular vendor at the Kamloops farmer's market sells extra-warty pumpkins.

"They make for great jack-o-lanterns."

There is also fresh bread and local gin are also big-sellers, he said.  

Farmer's markets are happening today, Oct. 23 in Kamloops, Kelowna and Penticton. Final markets are held on Oct. 30 with Vernon's final market of the year on Oct. 28. 

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