The first day of the indoor North Bay Winter Farmer's Market at the North Bay Mall was a hit.
"We had people lined up early, waiting for the doors to open at 10 a.m. They walked right in and there was a massive amount of people, some spots we couldn't even walk through," says Stephanie Booth, Market Manager.
"We have the same vendors that were downtown, but we always accept new vendors because you never know what's new out there, or somebody wants to come in and try the market out because they're looking towards next summer."
Now in its second year, the winter market, located at the North Bay Mall, had 28 vendors on opening day, offering a variety of items, including locally grown produce.
"We're two weeks early due to Thanksgiving being early this year. We normally close after Thanksgiving weekend," says Booth. "I think the market is still fresh in people's minds, we've only been away for one weekend. Of course, we have area farmers with produce left over to sell. Some are still growing vegetables in their greenhouse, so that's helping bring people here to get those fresh veggies. And of course, people are already thinking of Christmas and looking for unique gifts."
Danielle Benoiton and her son Jesse joined the hundreds of market supporters.
"I'm really impressed with the produce selection. Everything on my list is here, which is fabulous. I would come here more than once a week if they were open that often. I'm a devoted attendee, I come to every market."
Vendor Pam Munro, of ETCHINGworks is anticipating a good season.
"I'm very excited to be here. I've been at the summer market as an occasional vendor there for the last two years. This is the first time I've been a seasonal vendor and the turnout is amazing. I find North Bay citizens are very supportive of the market. There's a lot of variety."
One patron who prefers to only go by the name Lo Ann, says it is important for her to shop locally whenever possible.
"It's the first weekend, and hopefully I won't miss any. I mostly come for the different foods. I did the vegies over there. I'm here for my green tomatoes all the time. My husband's into the homemade jams and the pickles. It would be nice for us in North Bay if we would have a permanent indoor location. I don't know where they would put it, but it would be terrific if it was down here in West Ferris."
The winter market is open Saturdays starting at 10 a.m, and runs until the end of April.
