Best BC Markets For Local Artisans and Crafts

Whistler Farmers Market takes place on Sundays and select Saturdays throughout the summer, and don’t let the ‘farmers market’ name fool you; this goes well beyond fruit and vegetables. The market showcases a wide variety of vendors including BC artisans who proudly create unique, handcrafted items. Pretty jewelry, hand thrown pottery, stylish shawls and other goodies make strolling the stalls a fun way to spend time.

The Clayton Market  in Surrey has market dates scheduled throughout the summer right up until October. Wheelchair, stroller and dog-friendly, this is a lovely market where one can discover artisan soap and candlemakers, pick up charming artists cards and notebooks, and other locally made items that make great gifts.

White Rock Farmers Market is held every Sunday until mid-October and has been taking place for 25 years. Well beyond food stalls, this market has mini tents with local jewelry designers selling delicate pieces that just seem like the right style in our BC summer, natural beauty brands, and much more. Bring the kids too, there’s lots of treats to keep them occupied while you stroll through the stalls.

Got Craft Market  sets up every Saturday on South Granville’s Plaza East for their Summer Outdoor Market Series. Taking place until early September, this market urges us to shop small, and support local brands who make pretty things. For example, mini crochet treasures like the tiniest avocados to fill a small basket or bowl, beautiful tumblers ideal for summer entertaining and a desert flora designer are worth checking out.

Yarrow Farm Market in Chilliwack is a great place to stop and visit enroute to Cultus Lake. Crafts and artwork aplenty are on offer from local artists, (and here’s something unexpected), there’s even a tattoo artist on site if you’re feeling ink-inspired. Musicians add to the relaxed, summer vibe making your market day extra special.

The Artisan & Farmer Market at Sardis Park, also in Chilliwack has been a go-to market since 2012 and features 24 interesting vendors. Taking place Wednesdays from 4-8 pm, here is where to snatch up earthy boho crystal jewelry, adorable scented teacup candles, natural beauty products and more.

New West Craft Summer Market has over 60 handmade vendors who set up stations along the boardwalk and inside River Market in New Westminster. Live music, plus food and drinks from the market’s food stalls and nearby eateries keep a hungry shopper sated. Expect the unexpected, like these beautiful baskets perfect for, well, shopping at the market.

Ambleside Artisan Farmers’ Market sets up every Sunday in West Vancouver’s Ambleside Park from May to October. Again, don’t let the ‘market’ name fool you. This goes well beyond fresh seasonal produce and has an impressive selection of artisanal crafts and wearables. Be sure and take in the beautiful vista of the ocean and mountains right where you shop. Sense of place is everything here.

Quay Market & Food Hall in North Vancouver is right where you’ll want to be on any given summer Wednesday until September. The market is situated on the waterfront, with artisans selling their designs to folks who appreciate supporting local small businesses. Bring home a treasure or two you won’t regret purchasing.

Shipbuilders’ Square Friday Night Market in North Vancouver, runs from May until September from 5-10 pm. A great way to kick off the weekend with arts and crafts in a variety of styles to choose from, plus lots of food trucks and live bands and musicians. It gets busy here every Friday night at the Shipyards, so plan to come early, and just make an evening of it. A perfect summer evening that is.