Here are five things you can do around Alberta this week that will connect you with your local makers and producers.
YMM Urban Farmers Market, Fort McMurray
Located at 8124 Fraser Ave in Fort McMurray, the YMM Urban Farmers Market features a nice variety of products such as garden produce, free-range meat, baked goods, organic personal care items, honey, and much more. With COVID-19 restrictions eased, the market is now mask free, but asks that you respect the decisions and distance of others during this transitional time.
Canada House Gallery, Banff
Since 1974, Canada House Gallery has showcased the art of Canadian Indigenous and Inuit artists. In addition to finding beautiful paintings, jewellery, textiles and sculptures, the Gallery offers consultation, delivery and installation across the Bow Valley and Calgary. Just a few of the artists exhibiting at Canada House include Mark Fletcher, Jennifer Annesley, and Ryan Bavin.
Crooked Pot Gallery, Stony Plain
Not only will you find artisanal pottery in this charming little shop in Stony Plain, you can call ahead to arrange a visit when an artist is at work, and you can request custom orders. The Crooked Pot Gallery is the shop for the Parkland Potters Guild. Founded in 1976, some of the original guild members are still active in the organization today. Visit the members’ gallery to see the individual styles of the artists.
Solstice Berry Farm, Crossfield
Family owned and operated, Solstice has been growing saskatoon berries since 2003. The farm’s shop offers a variety of goods including fresh and frozen berries, jams and jellies, pies, and gifts. Later in the summer Solstice will be ready for their U-pick visitors. Since the opening date is not yet set for U-pick, stay tuned to the Solstice Berry Farm Facebook page for updates. The picking season is short; you don’t want to miss it!
The World’s Largest Perogy
All around Alberta at Farmers Markets, cafés, and food trucks you’ll find one of the province’s staple items – the humble perogy. Brought to Canada by Eastern Europeans, the pillowy dumplings are something many of us enjoy, be they the savory cheese filled or sweet berry filled kind. In Glendon, a small village north of St. Paul, you’ll find a tribute to this tasty delight. The Giant Perogy towers 27 feet tall and weighs about 6,000 pounds. An earlier iteration of the sculpture was without the fork, leaving many to wonder what the puffy lump was supposed to be. Once the fork was added the Giant Perogy took its place among the “massive things to visit” for those checking out Alberta’s attractions.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
