Sidney Street Market is set to return to Beacon Avenue on Thursday, June 5, promising a vibrant summer filled with local shopping, delectable food and lively entertainment.
The market, a cornerstone of community connection, will run every Thursday evening from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., until Sept. 11.
This year, the market introduces a fresh symbol: the daisy, representing simplicity, resilience and the enduring spirit of community. This builds upon the success of last year’s sunflower theme.
"This cheerful theme sets the tone for a season dedicated to coming together and celebrating local," said Kaemac Event Services, the market organizer.
Opening day festivities will begin with a land acknowledgement by August Thomas of the Esquimalt First Nations, followed by a performance from acclaimed singer Stephanie Greaves.
The 2025 market season will be dedicated to the Filipino community, many of whom are valued vendors and friends of the market. This dedication holds even greater significance in light of the recent tragic incident at the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver.
"The Sidney Street Market aims to offer this season as a heartfelt tribute to the Filipino community's strength, culture and invaluable contributions," the organizer said.
Catherine Arellano, of Havana’s Inasal, expressed her gratitude for the dedication.
Her food vendor stand will be selling traditional Filipino street food like pork barbecue skewers and chicken barbecue 'inasal,' a term originating from Bacolod City in the Philippines that refers to char-grilled barbecue.
"It's overwhelming to know they're doing that," Arellano said. "It's a pleasure for us Filipinos and small entrepreneurs like us to be recognized because we don't have a physical store right now and we're just doing the market."
Market goers can anticipate a diverse array of experiences, including monthly theme nights, vendor gift basket draws and convenient bike valet services.
Official Sidney Street Market canvas shopping bags, adorned with the new daisy logo, will be available for purchase.
Each week will feature live music, handcrafted artisan goods, a selection of local food trucks and family-friendly entertainment.
This year’s market will feature at least 150 vendors lining Beacon Avenue.
According to Kaemac, they received over 300 vendor applications, all processed through a first-come, first-served system.
“It's a clear sign of the strong enthusiasm and community spirit behind this event," they said.
Organizers are requesting the public refrain from entering the market space before 5:30 p.m. for safety reasons, as Beacon Avenue remains an active roadway during vendor setup.
The Sidney Street Market team emphasizes its continued close partnership with the Town of Sidney, working to create a safe, welcoming and community-focused event.
"Together, we're building a destination market that reflects the beauty of Sidney, supports local small businesses and brings people together each week in celebration of connection and creativity," Kaemac said.
