NANAIMO — A sure sign of summer’s end happens Sunday.
The Cedar Farmers Market will close its 2026 regular season on Sunday, Oct. 25, with a distinct Halloween theme at the field behind the former Woodbank Elementary School on Woobank Rd., which has become a tradition over the years.
Market executive director Kate Poirier told NanaimoNewsNOW a large crowd and lots of vendors are expected to unofficially wrap the summer market season.
“Everyone wants to come out this weekend, so we have a lot of businesses there, nobody wants to miss the last market of the season. We have over 100 businesses booked for this weekend, including a lot of farmers. We’ll have a lot of food trucks and all sorts of different things.”
Pets, especially those in costume, are also very welcomed, Poirier added. (Image Credit: File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
Open at 10 a.m., or 9:30 a.m. for those needing a quieter and less sensory-filled shopping experience, many vendors are expected in costume and offering a trick-or-treat practice for excited little shoppers.
Stalls will be open until 2 p.m., with live music and family activities all offered.
“I think people feel like they’re coming home when they come and visit for the first time,” Poirier said on the vibe of the market. “We see tourists that will show up from across Canada and the U.S. as well who tell us that it reminds them of their hometown, they feel welcome right away.”
This year’s season kicked off by setting a record on Mother’s Day for opening weekend, with over 5,000 adult shoppers taking in the event.
In the 24-week season, Poirier said they’ve had over 51,000 people through the gates, which is on par with recent years.
The weather has been largely cooperative for the event, with minimal rainouts.
The Cedar Farmers Market will officially wrap 2026 on Nov. 8, when they host a special holiday-themed event featuring a higher percentage of artisans and gift-makers.
Poirier added Santa Claus has also confirmed his attendance and will be available for photos with children and to hear their early Christmas list drafts.
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