There’s nothing that celebrates summer more than the local farmers market! It’s a hundred things tied up into one – a place to buy fresh, organic food, sample local cuisine, choose a unique gift made by a local craftsperson, or listen to some live music. But, I think, the best part of the farmers market is how it connects people – young, old, strangers, friends, those ‘from away’ and those just ‘down the way’.
The Kingston Farmers Market in Kingston, NB is such a place.
Established in 1983, the Kingston Farmers Market is a cooperative of over 80 vendors, offering a variety of NB-produced products, “keeping it real by keeping it local”. Open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, rain or shine from May 4 to October 26 (for the 2019 season), it attracts locals and visitors alike for the food, the atmosphere and the fun!
Https://sites.google.com/view/kingston-farmers-market/home
Check out the links on the KFM home page for their story, the KFM Stage, hall rental and more!
Main entrance to the KFM community hall
What better way to start off the great Saturday ahead by heading to THE place to See and Be Seen! If you’re smart, you’ll get to the market early – if you don’t, you might miss something! The die-hards arrive at opening in order to get the best pick of the fresh veggies or home-made bread; by 9 am it’s bustling with ‘late arrivals’ looking for breakfast or to browse the stalls.
The bountiful harvest is ripe for the choosing; additionally, you can find flowers, crafts, clothing, hand-made soap and even Emu oil for your ‘itchy-scratchy’ bits 😃
Want to know what’s going on in Kingston? Just have a look here or check at ‘Dick’s Corner’
Mackay’s, home of the famous Yip cider
There is a variety for whatever your mood!
Now, everyone who knows me knows I like bright and shiny things. I am especially drawn to silver; Aiden Stanley of Queenstown Goldsmiths has unique and beautiful custom-crafted pieces on offer, for anyone looking for a cherished gift for that special occasion.
Aiden Stanley http://www.queenstowngoldsmiths.com
Likewise, another favourite stop of mine is to visit Tina MacPhee at I Love My Jewellry Too. Stationed inside the main building, Tina’s corner always draws a crowd. She tells me that she loves being part of the supportive market community and having the opportunity to get out and talk with people. Her work with copper, brass and sterling, leather and artful etching results in lovely jewellery with a natural vibe. Just the thing for a lucky person on my Christmas list 😉 
Tina MacPhee ilovemyjewelry2@gmail.com
Finally on my list of favourite things this week….introducing Danny Lutes of Reversible Stainglass Studio. Every time I chat with him, I go away happy, taking a little bit of his positive attitude with me, along with yet another stained glass bird to hang in the window of High Water Cottage.
Danny Lutes dannylutes54@gmail.com
Music makes everything more festive, and the KFM Stage doesn’t disappoint! This week we were treated to the upbeat, sing-a-long entertainment provided by the New Kingston Trio, a guitar-wielding, banjo-playing group from Summerville who delighted their audience with a perfect mix of ballads and upbeat tunes, old and new. And, let me tell you, they drew quite a crowd! I have on good authority that the Market Folk are already asking when you’ll be back…
All funds raised were donated to the SPCA
The New Kingston Trio. From left: Randy Wilson, Paul Roach and Andrew Clark
It’s not just people who enjoy the market! This young pup is Kingston, an adorable 6 month old Labradoodle who drew a sizeable crowd along with the band. Such a pleasure to meet him – and I LOVE the name!
Kingston and his owner Steve Titus
Finally, the food….
As I said, there is no shortage! You can find everything from things deep-fried delicious to delightful donuts, ethnic food and organic fare. My husband’s particular favourite is a salmon bun from Benson’s Seafood. Be warned! They are one of the most popular food stalls at the market, so queue up quickly to get your breakfast or buy some for dinner. Their salmon is second-to-none!
Benson’s Seafood
For those who prefer a more traditional breakfast, they can head inside to the dining hall, where a hearty breakfast of bacon and eggs, pancakes and hot coffee await! The hall is abuzz with happy conversation and “Hi! How are you?s” as volunteer servers shout numbers out for your breakfast order.
Every time I hear my number called, I get excited! It feels like I have won Breakfast Bingo!
It is a lovely space – sunny and warm and particularly inviting in the fall when you come in from the crisp air, in your fall sweater and boots and sit to wait, fresh coffee in hand, for friendly conversation and hearty food. And, if you want to rent this space, it’s available; it’s a perfect spot for a wedding or family event! Just contact market staff for more details. This week, as I lingered over yet another cup of my favourite hot beverage, I was hustled along at market closing time by my friend Jackie, who was busy clearing the hall for a wedding later in the day.
Jackie Fraser, a KFM board member, providing service with a smile
The Kingston Farmers Market is a true Country Treasure, a meeting place for Peninsula residents, those from town and visitors from miles around who gather to enjoy the best that East Coast hospitality has to offer. Sure, there’s an abundance of food and unique gifts, but the best thing you’ll find there is the people – you’re among friends.
Want a happy start to your Saturday? Meet me at the market! 😃
High Water Cottage 