Best of Ottawa 2020: Local Markets

?After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have
a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer.
In this weekly series, we share our picks with you —
our top hotels, live music venues, local brews, bands
and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!

ByWard Market (55 ByWard Market Square)

This central city market from which the neighbourhood gets its name is a hub of local life. Its historical roots branch back to its foundation by Lt-Col. John By in 1826, making it one of the oldest public markets in the nation. Most of the vendors are currently accepting orders for pick-up online.

Photo: Ottawa Tourism

Ottawa Farmers’ Market (Various locations)

The Ottawa Farmers’ Market is a foodie’s paradise. It’s the city’s only farmers’ market that features local producers exclusively and is open year-round. The market is at four locations, Lansdowne, Barrhaven, Westboro and Orléans, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to pre-made dishes, all made and grown within 100 kilometres of the National Capital. Many vendors are currently selling their goods online.

Photo: Ottawa Farmers’ Market

613flea  (Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne)

This not-for-profit monthly market showcases over 100 vendors, selling everything from vintage clothes to handmade goods and food. From antiques to independent boutiques, local makers and creators of all types congregate under one roof at 613flea!

Photo: 613 Flea

Main Farmers’ Market (201 Main St.)

Main Farmers’ Market puts the focus on connecting local food producers with the Ottawa community. With all vendors originating from within 160 km of the market, you know that what you’re getting is super fresh. The perfect spot to pick up not only fruits and veggies, but natural bath products, free-range meat and eggs, and much more.

Photo: Main Farmers’ Market

Ottawa Christmas Market (Casino Lac-Leamy Plaza, Lansdowne)

The Ottawa Christmas Market is one of the city’s newest markets, launching just last year. It takes inspiration from traditional European holiday markets and transforms the plaza at Lansdowne into a beautiful winter wonderland complete with vendors, food, live music all under an array of twinkle lights. The market runs for four consecutive weekends from late November to late December.

Photo: Ottawa Christmas Market

Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market (1644 Bank Street)

If you’re looking for a full organic option, the Organic Farmers’ Market is the market for you. This market is the only one of its kind in the city, with everything for sale being certified organic such as the produce, oils, body products and more. The market is open for 50 weeks a year, so you can drop by no matter the season.

 Photo: Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market

Beechwood Farmers’ Market (43 Ste. Cecile St.)

Located in the beautiful Optimiste Park, this market is the ideal spot to spend a Saturday morning. It runs from June to late October and is a haven of fresh herbs, veggies, fruits, maple syrup, sustainable household products, fresh eggs and more. The market is currently accepting orders online for pickup on Saturday mornings.

 Photo: Beechwood Farmers’ Market

Ottawa Antique & Vintage Market (The Fieldhouse, Carleton University)

When it comes to vintage wares, you can’t get much better than the Ottawa Antique and Vintage Market. Take your time browsing through more than 40,000 square feet of unique pieces spanning the decades, including jewellery, art, clothing, textiles, kitchenware and more. You’re bound to find a treasure trove in their immense inventory no matter what.

 Photo: Ottawa Antique & Vintage Market

Parkdale Market (366 Parkdale Ave)

Parkdale Market focuses on fresh produce and they’ve been doing it well since 1924. Running every day of the week from late April to early November, they’re known for their great selection of fruits, veggies and fresh flowers. Meet and greet with the farmers themselves and pick up a crate of the best peaches you’ll ever taste. In light of the pandemic, the market is currently accepting online orders.

 Photo: Parkdale Market

Freewheeling Craft (various, pop-up locations)

Freewheeling Craft is a local organization that hosts various pop-up markets throughout the year featuring local vendors and artisans selling everything from clothes and jewelry, to visual art pieces. In light of the current pandemic, Freewheeling Craft has an online store where you can shop dozens of local goods that will be delivered right to your door.

 Photo: Freewheeling Craft Market