A Local Favourite: The Salt SpringIsland Tuesday & Saturday Markets
If you want to understand the heart of Salt Spring Island, start with the markets.
The Salt Spring Saturday Market in Ganges is one of the island’s most beloved traditions—a lively, colorful gathering of local growers, artists, craftspeople, and community members that’s been going strong for decades. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, the market is where people come together to connect, shop, and enjoy a slice of island life.
Saturday Market: More Than Just Shopping
Held from April through October in Centennial Park, the Saturday Market is a celebration of everything Salt Spring has to offer. You’ll find fresh organic produce, handmade soaps, baked goods, pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, and more—always made, baked, or grown by the vendor. That’s one of the guiding principles here: no reselling. Everything is local, authentic, and made with care.
Beyond the booths, the market is a social hub. You’ll often hear live music playing, see families meeting for lunch by the water, and feel the buzz of community in the air. It’s the kind of place where people greet each other by name, swap gardening tips, and linger just a little longer than planned.
Tuesday Market: Smaller, Still Special
The Tuesday Farmers’ Market, also held in Centennial Park, is a more relaxed, food-focused event. It usually runs from late spring through early fall and features many of the same growers and producers you’ll find on Saturdays—but with fewer crowds and a more laid-back pace.
It’s a great place to stock up on fresh greens, eggs, flowers, and seasonal produce midweek. Locals love it for that reason—it feels a bit like a neighborhood gathering. You’ll still find quality handmade products and warm conversation, but the vibe is quieter and more casual.
What the Markets Say About Life on Salt Spring
One of the things I love most about living and working on Salt Spring Island is the strong sense of community. The markets aren’t just about food or goods—they’re about connection. They reflect the values that draw people to the island in the first place: sustainability, creativity, self-sufficiency, and care for the land and one another.
For homebuyers, it’s an introduction to the lifestyle here. Many people come to Salt Spring looking for more than a property—they’re looking for a place where they can feel grounded, inspired, and part of something meaningful. The markets are one of the many ways that sense of belonging comes to life.
Thinking About Making Salt Spring Home?
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a move, I’m always happy to share what I know about Salt Spring’s neighbourhoods, market rhythms, and lifestyle. Reach out anytime—I’d be glad to help you explore the possibilities.