St. Jacobs Market aiming to improve market experience

St. Jacobs Market is looking forward to hosting “a more market experience than just shopping for essentials.”

“It feels like we have turned a corner coming out of the peak tourist season. We have been able to weather the storm by maintaining our COVID protocols,” said Joanna Loebach, the general manager of St. Jacobs Market District.

Earlier this month, the market hosted a beer sampling event during Thanksgiving weekend. On the eve of Halloween, the market is hosting a more kid-friendly event.

“We will have an outdoor event for kids where they  can safely decorate pumpkins and do some trick or treating.”

As outdoor capacity limits have eased in the province, the market is taking full advantage. However, he said they do have another opportunity for residents in November.

“On two Friday nights, a sip and shop event will be open to residents.  Proof of vaccination will be required. We hope that this is something that residents will want to embrace as it is a way to come to the market. It is being advertised to the community only. A way for people to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the market is  like on a non-market day.”

There will be about 150 vendors with fires pits and outdoor lighting in place as well. At the same time, the completion of the multi-purpose trail, which connects out residents from the Northfield area to the market, is set to be done later. Loebach said they are excited about the trail because it adds more to the market experience.

“Rather than using a bus or a car to get to the market. What better than to come o the market then coming with your bike and loading up a basket of fresh fruits, and then enjoy a scenic bike ride home. We think that is going to improve the market experience.”

The market is monitoring capacity limits inside the market building. Although it is not required to show proof of vaccination, Loebach said mask-wearing and social distance are to be followed.