KENORA – With people looking to get out of the house this summer, Kenora’s White Cap Pavilion will be in full swing as local artisans, farmers, and small businesses showcase their goods and service at The Matiowski Farmers’ Market starting June 15.
“With local and regional vendors, it’s definitely a one-stop-shop for fresh produce from the area, local and regional meat, artisans, crafters, community groups, and it definitely stimulates our local economy as many cottagers come in, and it’s their day in town to do the market. Maybe have a bit to eat, maybe grab other groceries, go to the laundry mat, so, it definitely makes the town a buzz,” said Helena Devins, Matiowski Farmer’s Market coordinator.
The Matiowski Farmer’s Market will have a few rotating vendors every Wednesday from now until September, but Devins highlighted some permanent exhibits like Fresh Water Fish of Lake of the Woods, Nautical Knot Tying Station, and Northern Ontario’s largest ntique outboard Motor Xollection.
“We have such a wide array of items and that’s the best part. Each year we have additional seasonal vendors, 10-week vendors, and causal vendors, so there are always new vendors from week to week. As well as, our staples,” Devins explains.
Another attraction is Science North Great Northern Ontario Roadshow, which has been touring around Northwestern Ontario for the past few months. They will be stopping into the Matiowski Farmers Market in August, however, they also have two permanent spots with their Northern Nature Trading and THINK Hub.
“They are hoping to have science demonstrations and exhibits, but they are also hoping to have tourism and local vendor participate in the event.”
In the past years, more than 5,000 people have attended the local event which helps promote tourism and stimulate the economy because people won’t just stop at the market, they tour the city.
During Matiowski’s Farmers Market, visitors will be able to partake in the festivities outside the pavilion.
“That is the most exciting thing this year is that with it being this post-COVID, the restriction is lifted, after two years Harbor Fest is back with their three-day concert event on the August long weekend. Kenora Bass International will have their full fledge festival the week after in August. We are going to have full Canada Day Festivities and they usually bring up to 10,000 people down to the harbour front for family activities and the specialty market,” said Devins
In addition to all the huge events, there will be weekly concert series with small music groups on Wednesday evenings. These concerts are by donation or free for the family.
