Salt Spring Island is a slice of heaven nestled up against Victoria Island in British Columbia. Salt Spring Island’s Saturday market is an eclectic mix of goods that can’t be found anywhere else in the world, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handcrafted jewelry and art. And with over 100 vendors selling their wares weekly throughout spring and summer, there’s something new to discover around every corner. You can find it all at this vibrant market, from farm-fresh eggs and handmade soaps to locally-grown herbs and woolen products. There’s also plenty of entertainment to be had at the Saturday market. Live music performances are held each week, offering up all genres, from folk to classical, for visitors to enjoy as they take in all that Salt Spring Island has to offer. Many vendors serve delicious dishes made with local ingredients– perfect for a light lunch or snack on your day out exploring!
What You’ll Find at the Saturday Market
Salt Spring Island’s Saturday Market is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience where you can find an array of souvenirs, artisans’ creations, and delicious treats. Gather among the pastoral beauty of Salt Spring and browse through the 140 stalls set up by vendors from around the world. A true shopper’s paradise, you can find everything from pottery and woodwork to jewelry and photography. Sample mouth-watering snacks from an assortment of food vendors that offer everything from cakes to organic cheese sandwiches. After some retail therapy, kick back for some live music in this bustling atmosphere.
Whether you’re in need of a special gift or simply looking for something special for yourself, this is a glorious place to find something unique that speaks to you.
We Offer Tips for Your Trip
You should know that Salt Spring Island’s Saturday Market is closed during the wintertime. The market season runs from the first weekend of April, or Easter weekend (whichever comes earlier), through the last Saturday in October. On summer days the market runs from 9 AM until 4 PM, rain or shine, Canada’s “Island of the Arts” is bustling with fresh, locally grown produce and locally raised or baked goods.
Attire: What you wear depends on the weather. Depending on the month, you could be sporting your summer outfit, complete with a straw hat, or in the spring or fall; you may need to bring a coat and umbrella.
Navigate the market: It is always a good idea to start by taking it all in. Walk through and do an initial browse of the event. There is booth after booth of internationally acclaimed arts and crafts from Canada’s “Island of the Arts,” including world-class potters, jewellers, fibre artists, woodworkers, fine art & photography, body care, clothing and accessories, island tours and more. Enjoy live music and entertainment. And of course check out what started the market all those years ago– organic produce, farmstead cheeses, organic and delicious homemade snacks and food.
The Salt Spring Island Market has a “homespun guarantee.” All vendors must make, bake, or grow the products they sell themselves. This distinction alone åsets it apart from most other markets and demonstrates our commitment to providing visitors with quality products that are crafted with passion and skill.
Doggie Daycare: The 1:1 dog sitting service offers assistance to families as they explore the Saturday market. From 9 am until 3 pm, and running until Sept 10th, their team of volunteers helps look after your pup while you enjoy a day out. They offer their services for just $10/hr (maximum of two hours). Due to the limited availability of volunteers, they may not be able to accommodate everyone, so plan to arrive early if possible.
Accommodations:. Whether you’re after a cabin or house, bed and breakfast, apartment, hotel/inn, lake resort, ocean resort or camping spot – there’s something to suit everyone’s needs and tastes.
Salt Spring Island’s Mariner’s Loft Will Capture Your Heart
There is no more attractive accommodation on Salt Spring Island than Mariner’s Loft. If you are looking for a perfect weekend on Salt Spring Island, take a look at the Mariner’s Loft. Whether you choose our three bedroom penthouse loft or one of our two bedroom suites we are the perfect home base for all your activities, be they taking in the market or otherwise enjoying the beauty of Salt Spring Island.
Contact us now and book your stay.