Visiting the local market

A girl helps at family market stall in Tumbaco, Ecuador.

Whether a farmer's market at home or an outdoor market in a holiday location, it is enjoyable to wander, browse and shop in a more traditional way than the supermarket or the mall. 

Alberta has an extensive system of farmers' markets. 

In Lethbridge I buy Taber corn while my friend selects other veggies.

Among the Alberta farmers selling at the markets are many Hutterite families.

The Hutterite women, men and children all wear distinctive traditional clothing. 





I have also visited markets in other provinces. 

British Columbia's Okanagan Valley has many markets, with a focus on the area's wonderful fruit.

Prince Edward Island

is known for its potatoes, of many varieties.

Most farmers' markets also include the work of local artisans. 

The market usually has plenty to eat on the spot. Here in Ontario's famous St. Jacobs Farmers' Market

You may have to queue. 

Two of my sisters in law enjoy St. Jacobs food. 

When I spent a summer in the Netherlands I shopped at an outdoor market in central Enschede.

While Holland is famous for cheese you can also get plenty of fish, fruit and veggies in the market.

On a visit to Norway you can't miss this fish market in Bergen harbour.




If you are looking for textiles, the Otavalo Market in Ecuador is the place to be. The local people are famed for woven textiles, usually of wool, that are made into clothing, blankets, tablecloths and more.

Otavaleña vendor in traditional clothing sorts her wares.