In Ottawa, we’re lucky to have a wide range of fall markets: from fresh produce, global cuisine, handmade art to vintage clothing. A seasonal staple, markets offer a fun and affordable way to support local businesses and shop sustainably.
In an age of overconsumption, where fast fashion dominates and most of what we own is mass-produced, it can be refreshing to visit markets. Markets give us the opportunity to connect with artisan vendors, embrace their hard work and creativity and shop mindfully. Plus, they’re a lot of fun.
Here’s a round-up of some free must-visit markets happening in Ottawa this fall.
613flea
613flea is the Ottawa market. If you’re planning to visit any market on this list, make it this one. 613flea takes place at Landsdowne’s Aberdeen Pavilion. The market has everything, featuring 150 vendors with a wide selection of vintage clothes and items, handmade beauty and wellness products, unique eats, and more. Not only is 613flea the total package, but the building itself comes alive on market days. Conversations spark from similar interests, people share their cultures through art and food, and the event is entirely dog-friendly, so there’s no lack of furry friends.
This fall, 613flea has event dates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Nov. 15. (P.S. 613Christmas is taking place at Carleton University, Nov. 29-30!)
Artisans’ Market by Minerva Ottawa
The Artisans’ Market by Minerva Ottawa spotlights local artisans in the ByWard Market, a buzzing hub in Ottawa. Here you can find handmade jewelry, jams, and home décor from over 30 vendors. Taking place on York Street, right by the iconic “OTTAWA” sign, this outdoor market is the perfect way to get to know Ottawa’s lively downtown market area.
The Artisans’ Market by Minerva Ottawa will take place on Sept. 28, Oct. 12, and Oct. 26.
Urban Art Collective Markets
The Urban Art Collective is an organization that supports and promotes local artists in Ottawa through many different channels. One of these channels is through their variety of markets. This fall, they’re hosting several market events, including two Saturday Themed Markets and a Nostalgic November Market. Taking place at 1088 Somerset St.W, the Saturday Themed Markets have two events this season: Made by Us, Just for You market, where shoppers can buy from local artisans and artists, and a Halloween Night Market where vendors will be selling all-things Halloween.
If you’re looking for a vintage market rather than an artisan one, check out the Nostalgic November Market, taking place at 28 Booth Street, Zibi (Albert Island). This market will feature all things retro and vintage, from pop culture items to vintage apparel.
The Made by Us, Just for You Market is from 2-7 p.m. on Oct. 4, and the Halloween Night Market will be from 4-9 p.m. on Oct. 25. The Nostalgic November Market will be from 2-7 p.m. on Nov. 15.
greely good market
For those in rural Ottawa or those looking to get out of the busy city, the Greely Good Market is for you. Located at 5770 Bank St., this hidden gem is a Greely-community staple. Greely Good Market is the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning with the girls: offering baked goods, lunch options, thrifted clothing, curated bouquets, fresh produce, home décor and local art.
The Greely Good Market is taking place on Sept. 21 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Ottawa’s Farmers’ markets
If you’re on the hunt for a good farmers’ market in the Ottawa area, chances are you won’t have to travel too far. Throughout the city, Ottawa’s Farmers’ Markets offer a diverse range of local and seasonal produce, eggs, meats, dairy products, honey, baked goods, jams, and crafts made by local farmers and vendors.
Main Street Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grande Allée Park until Oct. 25
Westboro Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Byron Linear Park until Oct. 25
Landsdowne Market: Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Aberdeen Square until Oct. 26
Barrhaven Market: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Nepean Woods Park & Ride until Oct. 26
Orléans Market: Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ray Friel Recreation Complex Parking Lot until Oct. 30
As we enter fall, I encourage you to explore the fall activities Ottawa has to offer, like the wide range of markets. Supporting local art and vendors contributes to the community and can introduce you to new perspectives and people across the city. And if you’re lucky, you may be able to find a couple of hidden gems!