Barrie Farmers’ Market marks historical celebration

Barrie market celebrates 180 years of offering residents fresh farm fare.

There aren’t many items left in Barrie that are 180 years old. But the Farmers’ Market is. To that end, the Barrie Farmers’ Market is hosting a party on the same site it’s been sitting on for all those years.

“In 1856, the historic Market Building was constructed on Market Square to serve as both the Town Hall and home of the Farmers’ Market,” said Alison Oakes, market’s operations manager. “And although the building was replaced in 1985, the market continues to operate on its original historic site outside Barrie City Hall today,” she said. “It was probably less artisan, more fresh produce and probably lots of livestock,” she said.

This year’s party doesn’t include the sale of animals, but they will have the traditional food fare, as well as birthday celebrations that include live performances, a festive booth decorating contest, kids’ activities and a community art project. The art project asks residents to draw their faces on a large canvas to show at the market. “And we’ll have 180 pieces of cake, while supplies last,” Oakes said.