Outdoor vendors hope that business in the ByWard Market will increase as a result of the new night mar
The ByWard Market is already known for its nightlife, but this summer it may also be known for its night market.
The pilot project was proposed by Rideau-Vanier Coun. Mathieu Fleury as a way of invigorating the market and bringing something new to the area.
"The city recognizes the importance of the market for our city," Fleury says.
He adds the city is embracing the competition Lansdowne Park will bring with its own market and shopping.
"A lot of communities have farmers’ markets, but they’re only on weekends," Fleury says.
"Now we’re enabling (residents) to come down to the ByWard Market and still get their fresh produce."
While the details are still tentative, there will be extended hours one evening a week. It will likely be on Thursday nights, says Genevieve Gazaille, City of Ottawa markets management communications co-ordinator.
"It’s still a work in progress," Gazaille says.
"The way the market is going, it’s not on a sustainable path," Fleury says. There is a long-term plan for the market’s organization. The night market will be a test run to see if it will be suitable in the future.
The goal is to try new things and boost interest in the area, Fleury says.
Fleury says the city is working with the ByWard Market BIA and farmers to make the project viable. Stores will be encouraged to stay open late as well, not just the farmer stalls, he says.
In addition to the night market, there will also be a culinary demonstration stand where restaurateurs, retailers and farmers can promote their products.
A Savour Ottawa stand will also be added. The stand is a collaborative endeavor that allows several small-scale farmers to sell different kinds of produce.
Operating a stand alone can be difficult for an independent farmer. This brings a broader variety of goods to one stall.
The Savour Ottawa stand at the Parkdale Market was a success last year.
While tourism is one of the main goals of the the ByWard Market in general, the night market is targeting a local audience as well, Fleury says.
"We heard from residents all the time saying, by the time I get back home, unfortunately the farmers are gone," he says.
The pilot project approved by city council in February and it will be coordinated by the City of Ottawa markets management.
The city has also approved a reduced stand fee for first-time farmers for the regular market, Fleury says. "We’re encouraging new farmers in the summer, we want them to come down," he says.
The regular market opens at the end of April, though the night market will likely launch at the end of May, Gazaille says.
She adds that based on this year’s weather, produce probably won’t be available until it is launched.
ByWard Market resident Ken Lancastle says he is looking forward to the night market.
"I think it’s great to showcase some of the local fare, not only for tourists, but for those of us living here as well," Lancastle says. "There is some absolutely delicious food available in this region. Hopefully the market helps expand that."