Don’t limit your visits to local farmers’ markets to just the summer. Many markets across Ontario remain open year-round, offering a wonderful selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables throughout the winter months.

First, check to see if your local market remains open throughout the winter – there’s a pretty good chance it does. If your nearby market is closed for the season, don’t worry, there are plenty of fantastic markets across the province that can provide you with the tasty fruits and vegetables you’re looking for.

At the markets, you’ll find all your favourite local fruits and vegetables. From hearty carrots to crisp apples and flavourful onions, despite the winter weather, there’s no shortage of options to fill your shopping bag.

By visiting farmers’ markets in the colder months, you’re supporting local farmers while lowering your environmental footprint and supporting sustainable practices. You’ll also add great taste and nutrition to your meal with the unmatched flavour of fruits and vegetables grown close to home.

While you’re there take the time to speak to some of the local farmers. With less than two per cent of Canadians being farmers, most of us no longer have a direct connection to growing our own food. Farmers’ markets offer a look into where food comes from and what local farmers do behind the scenes to grow the fruits and vegetables we enjoy, whether at home or when eating out.

Here are a few of the many markets that stay open year-round:

• St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market (Woolwich, Ont.)

Perhaps the most well-known market in the province, the St. Jacobs market provides an amazing experience where you can check off all your grocery needs, amongst other things. Open year-round every Thursday and Saturday.

• Montgomery’s Inn (Toronto, Ont.)

Just a short trip away from Toronto’s downtown core, this unique historical museum plays home to a farmer’s market every Wednesday, year-round.

• Ottawa Farmers’ Market (Ottawa, Ont.)

With five locations scattered across the Ottawa region, this market delivers local produce from farms within 100 km. Find their year-round location at Lansdowne Park.

So, bundle up and head out to your local farmers’ market this winter – there’s plenty to discover and enjoy.

To find your local farmers’ market visit farmersmarketsontario.com/find-a-farmers-market.