8 Manitoba harvests outside Winnipeg that bring the flavours, flowers and local fare

Posted June 11, 2019 | Author Reba Lewis

Manitoba’s farms and markets are getting into the groove of summer. And that rich local food selection that finds its way into our farmers’ markets and later on to our dining tables is all thanks to the hard work and behind-the-scenes processes that take place at Manitoba’s local farms. Whether your passion is shopping a local market, visiting a local farm, learning more about where your food comes from, or investing in community share agriculture, here are 8 harvest-related attractions outside of Winnipeg that should be on your radar.

Bruce Campbell Food and Farm Discovery Centre

open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Want to learn more about what you put into your body? The Bruce D. Campbell Farm & Food Discovery Centre is a hands-on educational centre that explores the ways in which food is made in Canada indulging visitors in interactive exhibits leading them through the processes from field to fork.

St. Norbert’s Farmers’ Market

open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Farmers’ markets are known for their friendly local vendors who become almost like extended family. And it’s that friendliness that makes regulars of those who hit the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market almost every weekend, not to mention its great location, good flow and excellent variety for just about every member of your family, including your furry pals.

Bea usejour Farmers’ Market

open Fridays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Some people prefer to get all the heavy lifting done by the time Friday rolls around, freeing them up to enjoy the two-day weekend doing something other than chores and shopping. If you’re one of those, the Beausejour Farmers’ Market is for you.

Red River Farmers’ Market

opens Saturdays from July to September

This market hasn’t yet begun, but come July through to September, the Red River Exhibition Park will host the Red River Farmers’ Market every Saturday.

Pineridge Hollow Farmers’ Market

opens Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pineridge Hollow has transformed itself over the years into a one-stop shopping destination. And its farmers’ market is certainly a big draw for the community of patrons and vendors alike every Saturday.

Aurora Farms

opens Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aurora Farms is all about giving back to the community in one way or another. The farm’s herd of goats supply milk for products such as soaps, yoghurt and cheese. Its alpacas provide high-quality yarn for hand-knit, crocheted and woven warm-wear at various craft sales, while heritage-breed hens supply eggs for families. Aurora Farms also helps families interested in setting up their own goat farms get started.

East St. Paul Farmers’ Market

open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

At the East St. Paul Farmers’ Market it’s the variety of vendors that makes it king among its die-hard fans and akin to a one-stop shop. It’s neither too big nor too small making it just right for those who want to enjoy the experience but still get in and out in a timely manner.

Blue Lagoon Organics Farm

contact the farm for membership details

Blue Lagoon Organics is Manitoba’s first officially certified organic farm. The farm focuses on growing fruits, herbs and vegetables, but also supplies eggs and organizes community supported agriculture, where a box of fresh certified organic vegetables is supplied on a weekly basis starting around the end of June for 15 weeks. The farm also makes appearances at local markets.