Canada’s oldest continuously running farmers market is hitting a massive milestone. The Saint John City Market is celebrating 150 years in operation. According to CTV News Atlantic, the first of several anniversary events kicks off this Saturday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can expect multiple stages of live music, a street party, and family activities.

A Historic Milestone

The City Market opened its doors in 1876. It stands as one of the few buildings in Saint John to survive the Great Fire of 1877. The federal government designated it a National Historic Site of Canada in 1986. Market manager Andrew MacDonald recognizes the weight of this history.

“We’re standing beneath the bell that has been rung every day for 150 years,” MacDonald says. “We’re standing in a building that’s been here for the same amount of time and looking at so many vendors and having the memory of so many vendors behind them.”

Deep Community Roots

Locals visit the market every day, bringing intergenerational stories with them. Wade Tyler is the head cook at Jeremiah’s Burgers and Fries. He grew up with the market playing a huge role in his life. As a child, he caught fish and sold them to market vendors. Now 55 years old, he works in the iconic building.

“I’ve been working as a cook for 30 years, and this has been actually my dream,” Tyler says. “Just dealing with the tourists, the people. I’m a very people person and I enjoy just conversing.”

Geoffrey Plourde operates GP Creations at the Charlotte Street end of the market. He loves the daily interactions.

“Meeting all kinds of different people,” Plourde says. “People from overseas, and people from all over the world.”

Market Makeover Moving Along

The 150th year brings physical changes to the space. Crews removed the middle red vendor booths at the east end to build a new seating area. This gives you more room to sit and enjoy your lunch. Several vendors are moving into upgraded spots along the outer walls. Jeremiah’s Deli is putting the finishing touches on its new space and will reopen soon.

MacDonald notes the renovations aim to create a more inclusive and accessible environment.

“We’re looking at best practices of successful markets all over the country and beyond, trying to figure out how can we bring the locals back into the space and how can we get everybody excited about it again,” MacDonald says.

Looking Ahead to October

Management plans to finish all construction by October. This aligns perfectly with the exact month the market first welcomed residents 150 years ago. Once the new seating area is complete, MacDonald hopes to host a formal party inside the building.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Saint John City Market anniversary street party?

The first anniversary celebration takes place this Saturday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. It features live acts, a street party, and family activities.

How old is the Saint John City Market?

The market is 150 years old. It first opened its doors in October 1876.

What upgrades are happening at the market?

Crews are removing the middle red booths at the east end to create a new seating area. Several vendors are also moving to upgraded locations along the outer walls.

When will the market renovations be finished?

Market management aims to complete all construction by October to coincide with the official 150th anniversary month.