TORONTO — The City of Toronto is shining a spotlight on the local vendors, entrepreneurs, and neighbourhood gathering spaces that fuel its economy and cultural life. Mayor Olivia Chow has officially proclaimed June 15 to 21 as Public Markets Week, launching a citywide celebration of the over 160 public markets that operate year-round across the GTA’s largest city.
From iconic institutions like St. Lawrence Market to pop-ups and Indigenous-led community spaces, Toronto’s public markets are being recognized for their role in supporting local businesses, building cultural connections, and ensuring access to fresh, local food.
“Shopping at public markets is a perfect way to Love Local,” said Mayor Chow. “By supporting our public markets, we’re supporting local jobs, culture, and the resilience of our city’s economy.”
🏘️ A Week of Markets, Music, and More
Public Markets Week includes a full lineup of events throughout the city:
-
Neighbourhood Market Tours at Kensington Market, Withrow Farmers’ Market, Eglinton Way BIA, Chinatown, and the Ontario Food Terminal
-
Market Talks at St. Lawrence Market on Saturday, June 21, focused on food systems, U.S. tariffs, and climate impacts on food security
-
11 participating markets will feature live music, cooking demos, and kids’ activities throughout the week
Residents are encouraged to explore everything from farmers’ markets and flea markets to shipping container pop-ups and community food hubs, each offering a unique blend of Toronto’s multicultural roots and local creativity.
City of Toronto kicks off Public Markets Week celebrating local markets
News Release: https://t.co/HWViCdbb77 pic.twitter.com/x5IU9FwFp2
— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) June 14, 2025
🌐 New Public Markets Web Hub & Toolkit
To help residents and market organizers get more involved, the City has launched a new Public Markets webpage:
🔗 toronto.ca/public-markets
The site features:
-
An interactive directory of public markets across Toronto
-
A preview of the upcoming Public Markets Toolkit with guidance on permits, public health rules, and vendor resources
-
Connections to the City’s broader economic development strategies, including the Sidewalks to Skylines Action Plan and the “Love Local” campaign
🧩 Supporting Local Economies, One Market at a Time
Public Markets Week is part of the City’s ongoing effort to grow and modernize Toronto’s market sector. The Public Markets Action Plan, approved by City Council, is a multi-year commitment to strengthen the industry, support market managers, and increase access to public spaces that reflect Toronto’s cultural and economic diversity.
Whether you’re a regular at your neighbourhood market or discovering a new corner of the city, Public Markets Week offers a reason to step out, connect with community, and support local.
Explore the full schedule and learn more at:
🔗 toronto.ca/public-markets
Follow GTA Weekly for community coverage, local economic updates, and events across the GTA. #GTAWeekly #PublicMarketsWeek #LoveLocalTO
Leave a Reply