The seed for the Hubbards Farmers’ Market was planted in the late spring of 1996. Lin Cahill, Gillian Maycock, and Deborah Fleming met each other at “Take Part Aspotogan” sessions conducted over the winter. Each were passionate gardeners who wanted to shop locally and buy quality locally produced foods.
These three shared the notion of a farmers’ market, and knowing that all three were of like minds, Lin called a small meeting for the sole purpose of discussing a farmers’ market. The group set up a perennial plant exchange at the Shatford Library in early June of 1996, to act as a fund-raiser and an information exchange. An article was published by the Masthead about our quest for vendors and of the ten or so initial inquiries, vendors had their first day of sales in early August of 1996 next to the Trellis Cafe.
The following year the Market moved to Bishop’s Park on the Fitzroy River, where the green and white striped market tents became a sign of spring in Hubbards. Two years were spent at the fish plant on the cove, before the Aspotogan Heritage Trust approached the Market organizers with an offer to use the site of an old cattle barn near the community centre.
Over the years, the Barn and surrounding property has been upgraded to its current state as the Hubbards Barn & Community Park through the dedicated efforts of community volunteers, and the support of numerous organizations and grants. The Barn has been the home of the Market since 2001.
Thanks to strong community support the market is now in its eighteenth year of operation and provides a strong, vibrant venue for over 35 local producers, showcases local musicians and is able to offer free space to community groups.
The property and modern washrooms are open daily throughout the summer for visitors to enjoy picnics, or a walk on the surrounding trails.