Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market

Halifax, NS

Public Space

The Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market opened in August 2010 along the city's waterfront, in a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly building. It has more than 4000 square metres, almost double the size of its previous location. In addition to the spacious vendor areas and storefronts, the Market boasts harbour views, a rooftop garden, a “living wall” (a wall of plantlife for air filtration), wind turbines, and outdoor meeting and shopping areas.

The Market is open daily, and with different themes and vendors throughout the week. For instance, one can enjoy international cuisine on Friday, and return on Saturday to purchase traditional grocery items. Its location at the Pier provides ample parking, and the site is easily accessible on foot, by bus, or bike. In addition to the shopping, there are many places to sit, both indoors and outdoors, to congregate with friends or have something to eat. The Market also welcomes entertainers and community groups, and makes parts of the building available for rental for special events.

Several qualities make this a great place:

• The view: The Market has an unparalleled view of Halifax Harbour. This provides an ever-changing and dynamic landscape for those who like to take in the scenery.
• Eco-conscious: The Market can boast rainwater collection, living walls and wind turbines as some of its eco-friendly traits.
• The location: The Market is accessible by foot or many forms of transport, with proximity to both the waterfront and downtown core.
• Buy Local: Nova Scotians increasingly "buy local," and the Halifax Market in particular offers local and regional produce and hand-made goods.
• The community: It never fails – you'll always see someone you know at the Market, regardless of the time of day, or day of the week!

The Market is a common meeting space for friends, and there are often booths set up for/by various community groups. The Market itself has an active Facebook following, where updates are posted regularly about vendor activities and offerings.

It is important to have a welcoming and centrally-located space, where you can purchase local goods, contribute to the local economy, meet with members of your community, and have an enjoyable pastime. The Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market is one of the most vibrant places from a social perspective, and inspiring places from an architectural/environmental perspective, that Halifax has seen in a very long time.