‘Excited to be back’ — Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market starts season

The Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market launched its 2025 season Saturday, drawing large crowds, despite the rainy weather, to explore the vendors and food booths along Pelissier Street.

The outdoor market returned for its 16th season, with 40 new vendors joining a roster of returning farmers and entrepreneurs to showcase their specialty foods, clothing, arts and crafts.

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“It’s been so great to see all of the people in Windsor support the market,” said Maggie Young, co-owner of the Little Petal Truck. “Its way busier I think than this time last year. It’s a good start.

“We’re excited for a great season.”

A record number of about 70 vendors popped up their stalls along both sides of Pelissier Street between Wyandotte and Park streets.

Windsor-Essex musician Max Marshall performs at the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Photo by MILLAR HOLMES-HILL /Windsor Star

“You get more and more people from the outskirts come into Windsor which helps create more opportunities for small businesses,” Young told the Star. “It’s really nice to see people supporting local instead of just big-box stores.

“With everything going on, not to get political, but I think this is becoming more important than ever before.”

Windsor’s market was recently honoured as the 2024 Farmers’ Market of the Year by Farmers’ Markets Ontario.

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Judges praised the market for its diverse mix of vendors and vibrant atmosphere, as well as its dedication to community programs like Good Greens, which tackles food insecurity and waste in the city centre.

The initiative has redirected more than 12,000 pounds (5.4 tonnes) of fresh produce, 3,300 baked goods, and 15,000 millilitres of preserves from food waste, turning it into more than 16,000 meals for vulnerable individuals at six local shelter organizations.

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