Easter Farmers’ Market in Smoky Lake

By Irene van der Kloet

The Smoky Lake Farmers’ Market runs from the first Saturday in April through to Christmas and then takes a break. This year’s market started on April 1st, followed by the Easter market on April 8th from 10-12. “It was really busy, but by 11:15, it got quieter. I am just beginning with this and have sold a few items. Hopefully, it will pick up throughout the year,” Mirian Paes says.

Mirian likes to crochet and knit and has knitted Easter bunnies, egg baskets, toques, neck warmers and other items. The market is entirely volunteer-driven and approved by Alberta Agriculture. They follow the 80/20 rule: priority is given to home-produced items within Alberta. Out-of-province products fall within the 20% category, as do resale products if space is available. This Easter market fills up the main hall at the Ag Complex, and the variety of vendors is impressive: from Ukrainian food and crafts to pet treats, from sausages and meat to Sock Junkies and Pampered Chef, to mention a few. There is a good balance between vendors with food items (in all its varieties) and non-food items (here, too, is a large variety). The market has a welcoming atmosphere with a musician playing the accordion. Although the season has just started, nothing beats good preparation, and they are already looking towards the Pumpkin Fair on October 7 and trying to attract vendors. The Pumpkin Fair market is the biggest market of the year, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and in 2022, it was packed with vendors. Pat Flynn brings to everyone’s attention the need to register early for the Pumpkin Fair Market. “There will be two locations, and there is transportation provided between the locations. Make sure you register on time to ensure you have a table”, she announces. Before the Pumpkin Fair, many farmers  markets will come to Smoky Lake.