Saanich’s Lambrick Park welcomed its first-ever farmers' market Sunday (June 29) and it quickly took root in the community.
The PKOLS Market, named after the traditional Indigenous name for nearby Mount Douglas, was the brainchild of local entrepreneur Gabrielle Eagles, who wanted to bring more fun, colour, and fresh eats to Saanich.
“There's really nothing in this area and everything is just so far away so (I was) just trying to create something that's fun and engaging for the community,” said Eagles. “I wanted to have an event… that's closer to Saanich because a lot of the markets are further into Victoria.
“This is a beautiful park and so we wanted to have a pretty little market area going.”
With several booths lining the park’s main path, artisans, small businesses, farmers, and craftspeople were on hand to sell their wares and products.
Unlike many of the markets in the region, PKOLS will be the first to operate under Saanich’s new policy allowing farmers' markets in municipal parks.
“I know I’m the first person to apply,” Eagles said. “Saanich Parks has been really kind and supportive, but they’re still figuring some of it out – it’s all very new for them too.”
Although venturing into a new project always brings some uncertainty, Eagles’ worries vanished as soon as she saw countless families strolling up and down the market on this blissful, sunny Sunday morning.
“People seem happy and everybody that popped by are really excited to have the market,” she said.
Witnessing the success of this first-ever market, Eagles is already thinking about next year, hoping to introduce more activities for children, expand the space for musicians, and potentially extend the season.
The market returns next week and will run every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Sept. 7.
For more information about the event, visit instagram.com/pkolsmarket/
- With files from Tony Trozzo
