The City of Delta is expanding Ladner Village Market in 2025, and "soliciting interest" for operating another seasonal market in North Delta.
Last Monday (Nov. 18), council approved several recommendations to implemented on a trial basis next year with the goal of enhancing the market experience for the entire community.
Changes next season include extending the market layout down Delta Street to Bridge Street; allowing businesses along the market route to set up pop-up patios for food and beverage sales on market days (subject to obtaining necessary permits); introducing a dedicated area for community activities, an eating area and an artists’ corner to contribute to the market atmosphere; and adding an eighth market day (Sept. 21) to the 2025 schedule.
An additional recommendation to repeal the market's "no dogs" rule was not supported by council.
“The Ladner Village Market is a cherished tradition in our community, and these enhancements will create an even more vibrant and welcoming space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike,” Mayor George Harvie said in press release later that week. “By listening to feedback and introducing thoughtful improvements, we’re ensuring the market remains a hub for connection and commerce in Delta.”
The city says businesses on affected streets will receive direct notification of the changes, ensuring they are informed and prepared, and businesses, residents, and community members will be invited to provide feedback at the end of the 2025 market season to evaluate the outcomes of the trial.
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Council also endorsed a recommendation directing staff so undertake an open process to solicit interest in operating a North Delta market.
A report to council notes the success of the Ladner Village Market has highlighted the potential for re-establishing a North Delta market in 2025 on Sundays that do not conflict with the Ladner Village Market — typically held on the second and fourth Sunday of the month.
A farmers' market previously operated at Sudbury Hall and then outside the North Delta Recreation Centre between 2014 and 2020.
In May of 2023, the City of Delta entered into an agreement with Ladner Village Market Ltd. to assume the assets and operation of the market for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
According to last week's report to council, the seven market Sundays in 2024 brought in more than 250 market vendors (including purveyors alcohol) and roughly 63,000 visitors.
As well, $6,222 in nutritional coupons were collected over those seven Sundays, almost three times more than in 2023. The coupons are handed out through the BC Association of Farmers' Markets Coupon Program, which provides affordable and healthy food for low-income families, pregnant women and seniors (enrolled households receive $27 per week in coupons that can be used at BC Farmers' Markets for up to 16 weeks).
The report notes Ladner Village Market generates an estimated annual economic impact of $3.8 million, with $1.6 million spent at local neighbouring businesses.
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