This weekend I visited a charming farmers' market located in Port Credit, Mississauga. This spectacular event takes place at Lakeshore Road East and Elmwood Avenue in a small parking lot. Although the market itself is quite small in size, the amount of “community-love” that was felt was amazing. From craft vendors to Ontario farmers, there was something for everyone. As I walked around the market, going from vendor to vendor, I was overwhelmed with the amount of Ontario grown fruit and veggie options. This really made me think, “how many fruits and veggies can I source from my home province and when are they in season?” Below I have created a list of eight popular foods grown in Ontario and I hope it will make it on your refrigerator to reference before heading out to the grocery store. 

1. Rhubarb

I can’t resist a slice of rhubarb pie and luckily I don’t have to as this popular pie flavour is flourishing throughout May and June in Ontario.

2. Strawberries

Everyone loves strawberries. This delicious treat is in season in Ontario throughout June and July. 

3. Peaches

Peaches are one of Ontario’s favourite staple items. I can always taste the difference between an Ontario grown peach and other options. Peaches are in season in July and August and can easily be found in grocery stores and almost all markets during these months. 

4. Grapes

August through September is when Ontario grapes can be easily sourced. This sweet and sometimes slightly sour treat is very portable making it a great snack to pack for school or work. 

5. Watermelon

I just had to add watermelon on this list as it was the highlight of the market this past weekend. This refreshing Summertime favourite is in season August through September. 

6. Potatoes

Another staple Ontario item is the potato. Potatoes can be locally sourced from July through November, however, local harvest storage allows us to enjoy them year-round. 

7. Tomatoes

I don’t know which is more popular – the tomato, the potato, or the peach - but all of these Ontario favourites are equally delicious and have an abundance of nutritional value. The radiant red tomato is in season in Ontario from July through October. 

8. Apples

I think apples may just be the most well-known Ontario fruit. A market favourite and a Canadian staple item, apples might just take the cake, or maybe I should say pie! You can find Ontario apples just about anywhere from July through October. 

These are just a few of the Ontario seasonal fruit and veggies available, and I encourage you to actively source home-grown foods. We have farmers right here in Ontario that work hard to provide us with fresh and delicious food and by supporting them we are showing our appreciation and constantly saying “thank you!” 

If you are interested in visiting the Port Credit Farmers' Market you can stop by any Saturday morning from June to October from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. If the Port Credit Farmers' Market is too far for you, there are plenty of other options that can be easily found online. Visiting the market is a great way to spend time with family and pick up some delicious foods while supporting your local community.