In a world focused on food, the local business association offers a boost when its Oak Bay Night Market strikes up again June 11.
“We have got way more food products than ever,” said Heather Leary, longtime lead on the Oak Bay BIA event.
Offerings run the gamut of traditional farm wares in the form of produce, to locally processed items such a liquor, kimchi and sweets. It includes a new business offering gluten-free sauces, which should be popular based on the patronage of the gluten-free bakery, also returning this year.
“People are looking for that stuff locally. They want to buy stuff they can add to their table – that’s local,” Leary said.
“Farm markets are off to a booming start and I think people just want to come and meet the people who are making the stuff they’re feeding to their friends and family.”
The street market also includes the “hugely popular” family activities at municipal hall, and live music on The Avenue.
“We’re really proud to continue to offer things in the village people don’t have to pay to be a part of,” Leary said, adding the market, however, will be tempting for shoppers.
Night markets run the second Wednesday of each month – June 11, July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10 – from 4 to 8 p.m. on Oak Bay Avenue.
Learn more about BIA events online at visitoakbayvillage.ca.