It is tough being a foodie not living in Halifax because that is where all the action is. I had been to the old market a couple of years ago and it was a bizarre labyrinth so crammed with people you could barely breathe. It wound all over the place and had nooks and crannies of vendors and musicians but it was so packed. I loved the character but the claustrophobia was intense.
The new Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is the exact opposite. Absolutely modern, well ventilated, lots of sunshine thanks to walls of windows, very roomy and impressively environmentally friendly. I do wish there was more parking but it is one of the few areas downtown that actually has free parking. We had to park elsewhere though, the place was packed so no free parking for us.
I gotta tell you it was not easy visiting the market on a budget. I do not live in Halifax and have been wanting to visit here for so long but thanks to my roof, I held myself back so we could go out for lunch. There were many foodie vendors, from farmers with yellow swiss chard to herbs and spices, baked goods… and even chocolatiers.
I got to meet a fellow foodie blogger Little Red Kitsch’n whose beautiful mini cupcakes were the shining gem of the show. So nice to meet you Jenna!
Right by her stand there is a bistro where Mike got his breakfast croissant sandwich. He tried so hard to resist temptation but finally caved and bought this sinful treat! I don’t blame him one bit.
There was a lot of local colour, flare and wares as well at the market. Perfect place to go for Christmas presents or a treat just for you.
I finally got to see Foxhill Milk in person! This has got to be one of the most popular products down there. Good old fashioned milk in glass bottles! Now I would have bought this despite my strict budget but considering I live pretty far away, it was impractical. I envy people who live in downtown Halifax who can come here all the time and pick up their groceries. You are so lucky!
I could not go down to the market without seeing my dear friend Shelagh. She has been so kind and friendly to me, helped me see the sights around Nova Scotia and is seriously one of the coolest people I have ever met.
Not to mention talented! Her artwork is so cheerful and colourful, just like her. We have to make a plan to have another adventure together Shelagh!
You know you are at a Nova Scotia market when you see chocolate lobsters. I loved these!
The market is right on the water and the view is pretty spectacular. You can even go up to the roof and hangout with the windmills. I think people do yoga up there in the mornings. I like that there are resting places for people like me who need to take a break physically and who can get overwhelmed by crowds and noise. Sometimes it is hard for me to believe I am from Toronto! Perhaps it’s PTS? This lady has the right idea, sitting on a bench watching the sailboats go by.
I did not buy anything on my first trip to the market but once we pay off our roof, I will be back to invest in all the goodies, I promise. I was considering avoiding the market due to our financial situation (I mean I am not a masochist) but I still got so much out of the experience and now I can share it with you.
Next time though, there will be much food tasting and shopping!
Hooray! So glad you finally made a visit. It is a great place to poke about. Always lots to see and taste and buy! I know you will be back and I look forward to it:)
I am glad I finally got to go and see everything too Shelagh! It was a great afternoon out and I can’t wait to go back and do more than take photos. 🙂
Those chocolate lobsters are wild! What a great souvenir they must make for tourists! Nice to see Shelagh’s booth — have read so much about it in her own blog.
I know, just love those choolate lobsters! Shelagh’s booth is so impressive, I loved getting to see artwork in person and her too!
There is something so right about milk in a glass bottle, I would buy it too if it was widely available. And wowzers to those chocolate lobsters, that would bring a smile to my face if I got a souvenir like that.
When does it start and when does it end
You can find their hours of operation here Carol: https://www.halifaxfarmersmarket.com/contact/