Cochrane's night street markets are returning to Historic Downtown this summer June 15. “The markets seemed to be really popular last year, other than the weather challenges, ” Valerie McCracken, market manager said with a laugh.
Cochrane's night street markets are returning to Historic Downtown this summer June 15.
“The markets seemed to be really popular last year, other than the weather challenges, ” Valerie McCracken, market manager said with a laugh.
“But despite the weather, people still come out.
The Cochrane Environmental Action Committee organized the markets for the first time last year attracting more than 35 vendors to the Thursday event.
McCracken said the monthly markets are an opportunity for vendors who want to “test out ” their crafts.
“There is a full range of food, products, arts and crafts and even local people who just want to see how their products might do, ” McCracken said.
The markets were introduced as an extension of the weekly Saturday Cochrane Farmers' Markets, giving vendors and artisans an additional chance to showcase their produce and crafts while promoting tourism in Historic Downtown.
Following last year's markets, business owners suggested the markets run more often, possibly bi-weekly or weekly. Negative feedback was minor from customers and included weather and the street closure.
The markets shut down most of the Historic Downtown core to offer easy access and walkability to guests. Volunteers took on up to 12 hour shifts to make the event possible.
“We are just really excited to get another season in the for the Cochrane and area community - we've seen such great support, ” McCracken said.
Last year, the inaugural street markets “exceeded expectation ” for organizers and they are hopeful for the same results this year.
This year's first night market will be June 15 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and then July 20, Aug 17 and Sept. 14.
Anyone interested in renting a table or spot should contact Valerie McCracken at [email protected] or go to cochranefarmersmarket.ca.
