Maybe you are getting off the subway at Yonge and Eglinton after work, stretching your legs at lunch or just out and about, enjoying the day.  Whatever you are doing, eating better is now a little bit easier for North Toronto residents. Now open until mid-October, Appletree Uptown farmers’ market is trying out a new home and new hours.

“We are trying to make this market as convenient as possible for the people who live and work around Yonge and Eglinton,” says Lesley Stoyan, director of the non-profit organization. “An offer too good to be refused.”

Operating a farmers’ market in our community has its challenges.  The market first began on the lawn of Eglinton–St. George United Church but caused traffic snarls. It tried Eglinton Park, but foot traffic was too light. Orchard View Pedestrian Square was not a current option due to ongoing construction.  This year, the market is testing out the open space in front of Postal Station K at the corner of Yonge Street and Montgomery Avenue.

I am a strong supporter of what Lesley and her 20 vendors are trying to accomplish. I love the idea of getting off the subway after a long day, catching the warm weather and picking up something good for dinner. It’s great to see people drop into the market but also use the opportunity to pop into our local stores. People connect at a market in a unique way, lingering and chatting with each other, creating a true sense of community. Appletree market creates a vibrant spot on our streetscape and adds to our neigbhourhood pride. Check it out: open every Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.