Hidden Gems: Local Farmers’ Markets in Ottawa
There’s nothing quite like the charm of a farmers’ market...
The scent of freshly baked bread, colourful seasonal produce, and the welcoming buzz of neighbours catching up over coffee. In Ottawa, farmers’ markets aren’t just about shopping; they’re about community, connection, and discovering something new each visit. While the city has plenty to explore, we’re highlighting five favourites from the Ottawa Farmers’ Market network. Whether you’re looking for a lively weekend outing or a quick midweek stop, each market has its own personality and hidden treasures. And the best part? Every vendor keeps it local, bringing you goods from right here in our region.
1. Lansdowne Market – Aberdeen Square / Pavilion
When: Sundays, year-round; outdoors May 4 – October 26, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; indoors November–April
With more than 85 local vendors, the Lansdowne Market turns Aberdeen Plaza into a lively open-air bazaar all summer long. Stroll through rows of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked treats, artisan crafts, and ready-to-enjoy eats — it’s a feast for all the senses. When the colder months roll in, the market simply shifts indoors to the historic Aberdeen Pavilion, where the same friendly energy and community spirit keep things cozy year-round.
2. Main Street Market – Grande Allée Park
When: Saturdays, May 17 – October 25, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tucked beneath the shade of leafy maples, Main Street Market brings a relaxed, neighbourhood vibe to Grande Allée Park. It’s the perfect spot for a Saturday stroll — browse everything from crisp produce and fresh-baked breads to local meats. Shopping here feels good in more ways than one: not only are you leaving with the best of the season, but you’re also supporting the growers and makers who keep Ottawa’s food scene thriving.
3. Westboro Market – Byron Linear Park
When: Saturdays, May 17 – October 25, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
In the heart of one of Ottawa’s liveliest neighbourhoods, the Westboro Market fills Byron Linear Park with around 60 local vendors. Stroll through stalls brimming with seasonal produce, crusty artisan breads, local cheeses, handmade goods, and plenty of ready-to-enjoy bites to keep you fueled along the way. Surrounded by the energy of the community, Westboro Market is less about errands and more about soaking up a Saturday well spent.
4. Orléans Market – Ray Friel Recreation Complex Parking Lot
When: Thursdays, May 22 – October 30, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Out in the east end, the Orleans Market brings midweek magic to the Ray Friel Complex. With about 35 vendors, it’s a perfectly curated mix of farm-fresh produce, local meats, baked goodies, and artisanal treats. Convenient for east-end residents and well worth the trip for anyone looking to beat the weekend crowds, this market is a midweek pick-me-up full of local flavour.
5. Barrhaven Market – Nepean Woods Park & Ride
When: Sundays, May 25 – October 26, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Serving Ottawa’s bustling west end, the Barrhaven Market gathers more than 20 local vendors at the Nepean Woods Park & Ride. From crisp produce and baked treats to ready-to-enjoy meals, it’s a Sunday stop that feels equal parts shopping trip and community hangout. Add in live music and a friendly neighbourhood vibe, and you’ve got the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.
From Lansdowne’s year-round buzz to Orléans’ friendly midweek gathering, these five Ottawa Farmers’ Markets each bring something special to the table. They’re more than just places to shop—they’re gathering spots where you can savour local tastes, connect with the people who grow and create them, and soak up the joy of a weekend (or Thursday!) well spent. And while these are just a handful of Ottawa’s markets, they perfectly capture the spirit of what makes them such beloved spaces: local roots, community connections, and experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
For details on vendors, hours, and locations, visit ottawafarmersmarket.ca.
