Hemmingford residents will be able to stock up on local products in one stop come May, with the launch of a new public market taking place in the village.
A survey was sent out before the pandemic which confirmed there was enough interest in Hemmingford to support a market, but the public health crisis in early spring 2020 put an end to much planning. Nadeana Tannahill, who is well known to the area as an artist, had originally been contacted as a potential participant. Now working at the Hemmingford Village municipal town hall as the administrative and culture and recreation development agent, she has officially resurrected the idea.
Tannahill says the hope it that they will be able to hold a monthly event, following an inaugural market scheduled for May 6 at the Hemmingford recreation centre.
She says the reaction so far to the market has been positive. People she has spoken with are really interested in supporting local producers and artisans and in buying more locally in general. Hemmingford’s proximity to Montreal and the South Shore is also a potential boon for the market. “There will be some who come just to shop,” she says, noting Hemmingford is well known for its wineries and orchards. “It will be nice to have one here,” she says.
Around a dozen producers and artisans have already suggested they are very interested in participating, and Tannahill is busy recruiting more. She is also looking for more volunteers to help organize the event.
The first market will take place on May 6 in Hemmingford from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, or to volunteer, contact Tannahill at loisirs@hemmingford.ca.
