The Yellowknife Farmers Market has become a thriving community event in the heart of Yellowknife since its inception in 2013. 

Founded over a decade ago by France Benoit and Amy Lizotte, the market has evolved over the past decade into a symbol of local food production, sustainability, and community engagement. Over a decade later, the non-profit society’s weekly summer event remains an avenue for economic exchange and a marketplace for Yellowknifers to purchase locally baked, cooked, processed and harvested goods.

The start of the Yellowknife Farmers Market can be traced back to Amy’s thesis on community agriculture. Collaborating with Ecology North and seeking a topic for her thesis, Amy surveyed the community to gauge interest in schools starting a regular farmers market. The overwhelming response from the survey confirmed that there was a strong desire for local, fresh produce. 

On a sunny day in June 2013, the Yellowknife Farmers Market debuted at the newly completed Somba K’e Civic Plaza. Organizers nervously wondered if anyone would show up. Indeed they did! With just ten vendors, the market attracted hundreds of enthusiastic visitors. The success of the inaugural market showcased the immediate popularity and support for local food initiatives in Yellowknife. The weekly summer Market has been packed since the very first week.

The Yellowknife Farmers Market has a major impact on the local economy. It’s quickly become the gathering place for friends and family to enjoy a dinner in the sun and support local growers, harvesters, bakers, cooks and artists.

As the years passed, the Yellowknife Farmers Market continued to expand and evolve. Regular meetings after each market allowed the organizers to refine their approach and address unforeseen challenges. They tackled issues such as waste management, seeking solutions through collaboration with the city and other partners and sponsors. Over time, additional programs were introduced, including the Pay It Forward initiative, the Harvester’s Table, and Music at the Market.

The Yellowknife Farmers Market has become a beloved fixture in the community, promoting local agriculture, fostering community connections, and providing access to fresh, sustainable produce. Through the dedication and hard work of board members, volunteers, and vendors over the years, the market has blossomed into a vibrant community event. As it continues to grow and inspire, the Yellowknife Farmers Market serves as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives in creating a resilient and sustainable future for local communities.

Did you know that the Yellowknife Farmers Market is more than just a Market? The organization is guided by three objectives, with the Market being just one of them.

1.   To facilitate the Yellowknife Farmers Market;

2.  To support food based economic development; and

3.  To support the development of local food systems.

In addition to facilitating and operating the Market, the Board of Directors is building programs to support local growers who want to grow commercially and has led the development of a Yellowknife Food Charter to drive social and political action on food security.