This Saturday, Dec. 21, marks the shortest day of the year. And if you're looking for ways to spend those few hours of daylight, the Pemberton Farmers' Market (PFM) has got you covered.
This Saturday, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Downtown Community Barn, the group is holding its first-ever Winter Solstice Market, featuring live music and a wide range of local vendors.
Saturday’s inaugural event will feature the work of 27 vendors, bringing local produce, original art, baked goods, toys and more. The full list of vendors for Saturday's market is available on the PFM's Facebook page.
Local crooner Monty Biggins is also set to perform for the duration of the market. He’s been doing PFM events for a decade, which he says provide a fantastic performance space for local artists.
"Connecting first-hand with the public in that setting is very special and I get a lot of love from not only the visitors of the market, but the vendors, too," said Biggins. "I always spend tips I make at the market to support the vendors and there's just a great energy and vibe every time I play them."
Stewardship Pemberton Society, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, and the Pemberton Arts Council have teamed up to give tips on how to be eco-friendly during the holidays. Their free DIY gift-wrapping station will offer market attendees creative, low-waste ways to wrap gifts.
The team recommends choosing from "natural decorations like pine cones and potato stamping" to add a personal-but-sustainable touch to the holidays.
"We encourage all gift-givers this holiday season to consider eco-friendly gifts that champion sustainability like handmade items, produce from local markets, and edible gifts,” said Crystal Conroy, executive director at Stewardship Pemberton Society.
Rest assured, there will also be free hot chocolate to stave off the chilly winter afternoon.
More details can be found on the PFM's event page on Facebook.