Coaldale Chamber Farmers’ Market kicks off a new summer tradition

Sunny South News Photo by Kristine Jean. OFFICIALLY OPEN: The Coaldale Chamber Farmers’ Market officially kicked off at Civic Square Plaza on June 25. The Farmers’ Market will run every other Thursday from June to Sept., and will feature local and area vendors from across southern Alberta.

By Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

The Coaldale Chamber Farmers’ Market officially kicked off under sunny skies on Thursday, welcoming Coaldale residents and visitors to the inaugural market June 25, at Civic Square Plaza.   

The market is organized by the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce and is part of the Alberta Approved Farmers’ Market program, bringing the Coaldale community together with local growers, makers, bakers, artisans and entrepreneurs from across Southern Alberta. 

The Coaldale Chamber Farmers’ Market will run every other Thursday from June to Sept., with  market dates in 2026 including June 25, July 9, July 23, Aug. 6, Aug. 20, Sept. 3 and Sept. 17.  

Colleen Van Raalte, Executive Director with the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce noted the keen interest for the first Farmers’ Market.  

“We’re seeing good attendance, good turnout and we’re really hoping that this market will continue to grow,” said Van Raalte, pointing out much interest from potential vendors as well. “This is a new program for everyone, whether it’s for vendors and also the public. We are just looking to start a new tradition here in Coaldale.” 

The community-focused market aims to celebrate everything local – with a goal to create a lively hub where growers, bakers, and makers can showcase their talents, connect with customers, and share their passion for fresh, handmade, and homegrown goods. 

One of the many local shoppers out for the first Coaldale Chamber Farmers’ Market on Thursday was Jill Doram from Coaldale. 

“I think it’s absolutely wonderful,” said Doram. “We love it so we’ll spread the word and hopefully it will bring more people in.” 

Doram was shopping at the market with several family members and said she hopes to see more vendors participate throughout the summer as well.  

“We’ve bought vegetables, we bought some Pampered Chef stuff, we’ve bought some candy,” said Doram, noting what impressed her about the market. “Everything. Just a little bit of everything.”