The Cobourg Farmers Market has a rich history dating back to 1839, making it one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the province. The market has evolved over time, but our commitment to supporting local farmers, artisans, and the community has remained strong. Today, it’s a thriving destination for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and community connection.
Our beginings
The market was founded in 1839 as a weekly public market. It was originally located on the west side of Division Street and moved to the area around the Market Building at 201 Second Street in 1861 upon the building’s completion.
About the historic Market Building:
Located at the intersection of Third and Albert Streets, the Old Market Building is adjacent to Victoria Hall, contributing to the long-standing tradition of situating market facilities with municipal government. Situated in the centre of Cobourg’s downtown, the market both contributed to, and reinforced the commercial character of the area.
The market moved to the area around the Market Building at 201 Second Street in 1861, after the buidling’s completion. It is historically significant as part of the town’s historic commercial centre and was part of a civic building campaign that included Victoria Hall (1856-60). Construction of these buildings reflect the economic prosperity and confidence possessed by Cobourg’s citizens during the late 1840’s and early 1850’s, when Cobourg enjoyed great economic growth due to its busy harbour, port of entry status, and agricultural wealth from local wheat production. Resulting from the belief that Cobourg was to become an important city from these developments, the imposing Victoria Hall and substantial Market were planned on a commensurate scale with the community’s prospective greatness.
‘Around the Oval’
By 2018 our market outgrew the original building and we moved across the road into the Rotary Harbourfront Park’s Oval where we hold our weekly Saturday market from May through October. Our smaller winter market takes place outside the Old Market Building in the parking lot on Saturdays during November and December.
The Cobourg Farmers Market is committed to supporting locally-produced and locally-grown goods. The Cobourg Farmers Market is 100% producer-run – meaning we are governed by a volunteer board of directors which meets throughout the year. Browse the stalls, enjoy samples, discover new tastes and soak up the lively atmosphere. The Cobourg Farmers Market is where you meet your neighbours and friends, purchase excellent local produce and meats, try wonderful baked goods and take home some local crafts and ready-to-eat specialties.
The Cobourg Farmers Market is YOUR Community Hub!
To stay in the loop on events and special announcements, you can find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Shopping at our market helps to realize the Mission Statement of the Cobourg Farmers’ Market Association (CFMA):
- To maintain a farmers’ market to market local farm and craft products
- To stimulate public interest in agriculture and crafts
- To increase the presence of local products to the consumer
And to reach our Objectives:
- To display and market high quality vegetables, fruits, meat, baked goods and arts/crafts.
- To create a unique market opportunity.
- To build a community where knowledge and research may be shared.
- To work together in a co-operative spirit; with producers and customers.
CFMA is a member of Farmers’ Markets Ontario and a Sustainable Cobourg partner.
