PARKSVILLE — A tradition in Oceanside since 2004, the Summer by the Sea market is preparing for another bumper season.
Well over 100 vendors have already registered to participate in the Tuesday market, running from June 9 through to the end of August, on Craig St. in Parksville’s downtown core.
Interim CEO of the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce Omar Karim told NanaimoNewsNOW they’re seeing a lot of familiar faces, as well as those who want to have an increased presence at the market.
“Last year we had a lot of drop-in vendors, and we’re seeing a lot of new vendors coming in to want to be here for a lot longer period of time. It’s going to be a mix of what you’ve seen in the past, but also some new vendors we haven’t seen before, so it’s going to be a really nice showcase of our local businesses across Vancouver Island and Parksville and the district.”
More seating areas to enjoy live entertainment, as well as an expanding number of food options, is also planned this year.
Karim said they’re also setting up a dedicated section for youth entrepreneurs to sell their products and get a favourable start on their local business journey.
Between 2,000 and 3,000 stroll the streets on any given week, Karim said.
Visitors throughout the summer also benefit local brick and mortar businesses in Parksville’s downtown, with the market aiming to support vendors and local business owners.
“Also create a really meaningful experience for participants and families who are also coming so that they can have this opportunity to find a local vendor that maybe they may not usually see in their local area, or also have a snack from a food truck, and then also spend some time with their families, and enjoy the beauty of Parksville.”
Market nights run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., with the exception of events in late August, which wrap around 8:30 p.m.
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