A local institution in the making
The Farmers Market began at the Campbell River Discovery Pier in 2001 before moving to Spirit Square in 2022 under the dedicated leadership of creative managers like Jurgen Kettler, Keely Donaldson, Lisa Thompson, and Jim Creighton.
“This market is amazing. I come from California, and this market has such a neat atmosphere. Way better than anything in my home area!”
For the past 14 years, Reid King and Sue Moen have led the market. “Our relationship with the farmers market was somewhat accidental,” says Moen. “Reid’s passion for local music, my background in food security, and both our experiences in event management appeared to be a perfect fit. It started as a bit of a lark—something to do on weekends in a beautiful location—and has grown into deep relationships with the farmers and other vendors, entertainers and attendees, along with an abiding respect and love for the land and history where we work.”
As a vendor and board member myself, I am aware of how proud we all are of how the market has grown. Each week, 96 vendors and approximately 3,000 people gather in the centre of downtown. The market is a huge draw for area tourism—vendors meet and visit with hundreds of vacationers each week who are amazed at the quality and variety in the market and our beautiful town.
One visitor told me, “This market is amazing. I come from California, and this market has such a neat atmosphere. Way better than anything in my home area!”
Market vendors, farmers, and food trucks are vetted before market season begins, assuring an extremely high quality of produce, products, art, and food. Vendors aren’t just great producers of food and art; they become a family throughout the season, laughing together, sharing their lives, and supporting each other.
Where the whole community gathers
There is such diversity in the market crowd. In a world that is increasingly segmented, the market remains a place where everyone is welcome. It is a “common ground” in the truest sense, a rare space where the entire social fabric of Campbell River—from yacht chefs and tourists to our downtown community and local families—intersects in a spirit of mutual respect. For some, it is a place to source elite Island artisan products and the freshest ingredients. For others, it is a safe, vibrant environment to enjoy a local performer or share a conversation as the ocean breeze drifts across the square. By activating the downtown core, the market has proven that a healthy community is one where everyone has a seat at the table.
“The vibe here is so supportive,” notes one of our farm vendors. That support isn’t just for the farmers; it’s for the community as a whole. Whether you are coming to shop for a restaurant, find a souvenir, or simply hang out with friends, you are part of a 25-year tradition of inclusivity. When we gather at Spirit Square, we aren’t just a collection of shoppers and sellers. We are a community taking care of its heart. The Campbell River Farmers Market is a testament to the fact that when we create space for everyone, the whole island vibe gets a little bit stronger.
Whatever the draw, there is no question that the farmers market is a vibrant symbol of community. Each year, the market grows as Campbell River shows its passion for buying local and supporting food security.
We’ll see you at the market—everyone is welcome.
