After an absence of many years, a farmers market returned to the Valley Town in June.

The result was a weekly hive of activity in the parking lot behind the Dundas Library. From 3-7 p. m. each week, 21 vendors offered their wares to happy customers juggling overflowing shopping bags.

“This year was great and we can't wait for next year. Everybody seems to love it,” said Phyllis Kraemer, chair of the Downtown Dundas Business Improvement Area.

Ms. Kraemer said several factors contributed to the market’s successful first year.

“Dundas and the surrounding communities are very food aware, perhaps being surrounded by farmland helps. Locally grown or produced is the key,” said Ms. Kraemer.

“It's what makes our market special and what people love. It’s either grown by local farmers or locally produced by specialty food experts in their field. We have a vegan baker, a celiac baker and a beekeeper, to name a few, creating a great balance of products each week.”

Over at the Simpler Thyme Organic Farm stall, Bill Orosz mans a popular stand that offers fresh, organic produce.

between bagging produce and explaining to a customer the origin of a Jerusalem artichoke.

Mr. Orosz said he has staffed markets for 15 to 20 years and had pretty much had his fill of the weekly routine.

The Dundas market has changed his mind about working the market circuit.

“I actually enjoy it,” he said.

“I love this market. People said they wanted it and they come every week. They buy...no complaints. It’s really nice. I look forward to Thursdays.”

In response to suggestions from the community about reinstating a farmers market, a management group comprised of residents, local farmers Melanie Golba and Chris Krucker, BIA representatives and Councillor Russ Powers met regularly last February to hammer out rules for the market and establish criteria for vendors.

Contact with downtown merchants was made to develop a plan for the market’s successful integration into the thriving Dundas business community, and information was gleaned from numerous sources, including farmers markets throughout the region.

Management group member Ms. Golba said people seemed to appreciate the management group’s efforts.

“People enjoyed the market, its location and free parking. I think as a new market just getting organized, it was pretty good,” she said.

“People came out, and there were a good number of vendors. I think our goal for next year is to really promote it and get people from farther afield.”

For more information, visit www.dundasfarmersmarket.ca