The farmers’ market has found a new home. Here’s where

After nearly three decades at the corner of Springfield Road and Dilworth Drive, the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market (KFCM) will make the permanent move to the Landmark District in April.

“We have been looking for a new space for the market for quite a few years now,” President of the KFCM, Allie Becker told Kelowna10. “We've been really feeling the pinch of all the development in the Springfield and Dilworth area and also with the lot being put up for sale at the beginning of the year. That really did motivate us to be able to find a place for next season.”

The search for a space had become urgent, until the Stober Group stepped in, offering up the proposition for them to move.

"This is more than just a relocation; it's a vision of how we see the Landmark District evolving,” expressed Stober Group COO, Lisa Lock, in a press release. “The inclusion of the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market is central to this vision, adding more vibrancy and life to the district. Their presence is pivotal in making this community a bustling hub, enriching our ongoing commitment to local farmers, artisans, small business and the community at large."

There’s no definitive map yet of how the KFCM will look in its new home, but Becker indicated they have a general idea of the spaces that will be used.

“The main portion of the market will be utilizing the Tree of Hope Plaza,” she said. “The proximity to the highway, the space layout is going to work really well for us. We’ll also be able to utilize some of the courtyard areas, too.”

The space will be more than enough for the Wednesday market; however, talks are ongoing with the city about potentially closing sections of Dickson Avenue and Dayton Street to accommodate the larger Saturday market.

Becker said she is excited for the possibilities this new space will bring to the market.

“The market is a huge community hub, but for many years we haven't been able to fully expand on all the great things that we could do at the market,” she explained. “The opportunity with moving into the Landmark and being able to occupy quite a few of their spaces is that we can really bring more of that community in, more activities, more kids stuff. Just really be able to engage with the community more.”

For now, the KFCM will finish the outdoor season at their current location before moving indoors at Parkinson Recreation Centre after October.