The Horton Farmers' Market is a unique and diverse gathering place, bringing something new each Saturday of its summer season. One of the market's most colourful, creative and eye-catching parts would be the array of amazing artisans! While Horton may be a Farmers' Market, our great artisans are essential to the recipe of Horton's impeccable vibe. Though they may be outnumbered by food and produce vendors, these artisans should be recognized for their contributions! Let's look at some great artisans who have been with us throughout our 2023 season so far. Looking for adorable decor and designs? Jancat Art has you covered! With an array of keychains, pins, notebooks, shirts, hats, and so much more, Jancat Art has adorable merchandise for anyone fond of cats, flowers, cute foods and more. After first growing her small business on Instagram, she expanded her content into the Horton Farmers' Market, bringing her latest creations all season. It's always a fun surprise when Poured Art by Lori visits the market! Lori brings her beautiful designs from Port Stanley, each unique with bright colours of acrylic paint against beautifully cut wood. Some of her most well-known pieces consist of cutting boards, bowls and jewellery, the patterns of colour truly making the piece pop.
Another fun creator to see is Elora Joy Crochet. Since starting her business in 2020, Elora has made adorable crochet plushies made of chenille yarn, ensuring the products are even softer! Love is placed into each stitch of her works of art, bringing joy and cuddles to her customers. Elora joined us this summer as part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre Summer Company program.
Anyone searching for a perfect accessory to compliment an outfit need not look further than Wayward Creations. Each handmade piece, from stunning stud earrings to elegant necklaces, is unique and original, ensuring you'll find the perfect fit for you and your style. With so many incredible artisans available each Saturday, our local community always gives the Horton Farmers' Market a pop of colour and creativity! These vendors often participate in other local events, such as the Wildflowers' Friday Night Markets, The Little Market Collective's Makers in the Park events, and so much more! Be sure to support and stay in touch with your favourite artisans' social media to see all their latest creations come to life.
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The first weekend of September can be bittersweet. While some are looking forward to a return to routine and sweater weather, others may still need more time to be ready to indulge in the pumpkin spice of Autumn. The beginning of the new school year is only days away! For many students, this time of year seems like the end of summer fun and freedom. However, school is more than just the same boring routine- it's a chance to start fresh, almost like a second New Year's! There is something special about "new planner" season; shopping at Horton can help if eating well is on your to-do list. With so many vendors delivering delicious, nutritious and fresh local produce every Saturday, your pantry will seem like something other than a variety store and your children's lunches like a vending machine! Let's look at some great produce and how it will benefit your kids!
With these three healthy choices and plenty more to discover at the market, you'll be sure to help your kids enjoy nutritious lunches into the new school year and encourage healthy habits for life. Enjoy!
In 2020, the roots of Peters' Produce sprouted, blossoming into a dream nurtured by a family's passion for fresh, local goodness. Since he was knee-high, Justin had always craved to grow produce, and Annie had a green thumb that could turn deserts into gardens. But the onset of COVID-19 sparked the idea to sow seeds of hope and address food insecurity in their local community. And so, with hearts full of purpose, Annie, Justin, Stephanie, and Derrick embarked on their farming adventure.
On the farm east of Mount Salem, along Calton Line, Peters' Produce began with a humble self-serve stand. They planted peppers, tomatoes, sweetcorn, herbs, zucchini, and potatoes on 1.25 acres, and it was a family affair even as they held onto their day jobs. After the first year, they were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and decided to expand their offerings. The little self-serve stand blossomed into an on-farm market, where farm-fresh treasures beckoned passersby to stop their cars. Their commitment to their craft set Peters' Produce apart from the rest. Over 90% of what they sold was lovingly grown on their farm, and their team reflected the diverse communities they served. This dedication shone through in every vegetable, preserving jar, and pastured poultry they offered. From sunrise to sunset, Peters' Produce was a hive of activity six days a week. Early mornings meant plucking sweetcorn to offer the freshest produce at the market. At the same time, late nights saw them preparing for the next market day. Their commitment was a year-round endeavour, with planning and coordination in the off-season to ensure every season was a bountiful success. Peters' Produce found a slice of paradise at the Horton Farmers' Market. The market-goers' happiness and enthusiasm to support local producers warmed their hearts. The discerning eyes of consumers who appreciated high-quality, locally sourced products made each market day feel like a celebration. This year, Peters' Produce had a special treat in store for its shoppers. They ventured into artisanal chicken farming, investing in a high-tech robotic pastured chicken barn. Their feathered friends would enjoy a life of luxury and comfort. At the same time, consumers relished the unique flavour and texture brought to the market by their pastured poultry. Among their treasure trove of goodies, the relishes stood out as Annie and Justin's pride and joy. Corn, zucchini, and dill pickle relishes added a tangy twist to any sandwich, elevating burgers and hotdogs to mouthwatering perfection. As you wander through the Horton Farmers' Market's vibrant aisles, let your feet lead you to Peters' Produce. Discover a family's dedication to cultivating the finest and tastiest vegetables, preserves, and pastured poultry. And when you grab that burger or hotdog, remember to crown it with the magic of Peters' relishes. Welcome to the lively world of JayJoe Farms, where farming dreams sprouted and grew alongside the laughter of three young children. The story of this family farm began as a little seed of desire, yearning to cultivate vegetables on a grander scale than just their backyard garden. But with the responsibility of raising three little ones, the timing could have been better. However, fate had a plan, and in 2020, an opportunity blossomed on Krista's grandparents' farm, purchased way back in 1954. The idea of farming gained traction, and the arrival of COVID-19 gave them the nudge they needed to dive into this green adventure. With grit, laughter, and love, they took a leap of faith and decided to give it a go. Armed with dreams and a greenhouse, they embarked on a journey to change their lives forever. And thus, JayJoe Farms was born, bearing the names of two special souls, Jay and Joe—brothers who had left this world too soon. A quirky name that began as a joke evolved into a beautiful tribute, honouring the memory of their beloved brothers. Family unity was the secret ingredient at JayJoe Farms. Shaun, Krista, their children, Carson and Payton, and their moms, Glenna and Eva, worked tirelessly on the farm. Krista's dad, Roger, was also a familiar face in the fields, helping and maintaining equipment. And remember their oldest son, Jason, who pitched in whenever needed, balancing his time between off-farm work and family duties. Their harvest of veggies danced to the rhythm of the seasons, boasting an impressive repertoire of 90-110 varieties. Embracing organic practices, they nurtured their produce with love, never resorting to harmful sprays, only organic amendments.
A family that toiled together grew together, and learned together. The biggest lesson they discovered was the sheer dedication required to produce exquisite food. But through the ups and downs, their bond as a family only grew stronger, proving that no challenge was insurmountable when they stood together. The magic of the Horton Market enchanted them—the bustling atmosphere, the delightful customers, and the camaraderie of fellow vendors. Being a part of the market meant they could bring fresh, ethically grown veggies into the homes of wonderful families in their county. As for the shoppers, they had a friendly suggestion—seize the moment when they saw their favourite veggies at the market. Mother Nature's whims could make things disappear as quickly as they appeared. Among their treasure trove of delights, Kohlrabi was the shining star—a versatile vegetable that stole their hearts. Whether shredded in coleslaw, dipped in hummus, roasted, or added to mashed potatoes, Kohlrabi never failed to dazzle with its delectable flavours. So, if you ever find yourself at the Horton Market, follow the scent of fresh vegetables and the laughter of a warm and united family. JayJoe Farms awaits, ready to welcome you into their world of veggies, laughter, and love. In this place, farming dreams became a beautiful reality.
The most enchanting secret of all? Every bite of Bonjour & Yum's fare is a tale of local wonder. Many ingredients are sourced from vendors at Horton Market and lovingly cooked from scratch right at the market itself. There are no shortcuts or sorcery – just pure, fresh, and wholesome goodness. A sprinkle of wisdom they gained along the way was that some brave souls wander the realm with a peculiar taste, shying away from the magic of onions and tomatoes. They crave the simple combination of eggs, cheese, and meat, and Bonjour & Yum deliver their wishes with a mischievous grin. Ah, but the Horton Farmers' Market truly makes their hearts dance with joy. "The Horton Market is community building at its best. Friends meet each other at the market every Saturday. Our customers are mostly regulars who come every week. Those who try us out during their first visit to the market soon become regulars". Now, dear shoppers, a piece of magical advice awaits you. As the seasons change, so does the enchanting menu of Bonjour & Yum. In the warm embrace of summer, they offer their whimsical Muesli, a delightful twist on overnight oats. When winter's chill comes knocking, the market fills with the aroma of their soul-warming steel-cut oat porridge. But the real showstopper, the star of the culinary tale, is the French rolled omelette. Picture it: a fluffy, creamy egg cloud swirling with the tangy embrace of French Brie cheese. It's an experience that almost rivals the most enchanting of adventures. Ah, and one last piece of wisdom to take with you. In the land of Bonjour & Yum, the art of egg cooking is a delicate dance. "Never overcook your eggs. The curd should be soft, almost creamy. Our breakfast sandwiches take just 90 seconds to prepare. The omelettes take only 120 seconds. At that point, they're perfect. We'll cook them more if you want, but we don't recommend it. For the same reason, we don't do scrambled eggs. By the time you eat them, they've become too rubbery". So there you have it, dear friends, the enchanting tale of Bonjour & Yum – where magic meets breakfast, where community and flavours intertwine, and where every dish is crafted with love and a dash of whimsy. Step into their world at Horton Market, indulge in their wonders, and be prepared for a gastronomic journey you won't soon forget. Bon appétit!
Southwestern Ontario is infamous for its heat waves, especially in August. Luckily, your favourite local market has plenty of ways to keep you and your loved ones cool! You'll be chilling all weekend, from drinks to dish ideas and more. It's a beautiful sunny day, a bit too bright for some even, and you've just arrived at the market. You shop around and soak up some rays, but then you get a bit toasty. What do you do? Sometimes, a bit of shade is essential. Thankfully you can stay pretty shaded while you shop under the pavilions. But our beautifully decorated picnic tables make a great place to rest under the shade of a patio umbrella. Enjoy a chat with friends, listen to some beautiful music from the performer, and relax. Maybe it's getting humid…why not stroll through the indoor pavilion? Filled with freezers for delicious meats, milk and mushrooms, you'll cool down in no time. Speaking of which, maybe a tall cold glass of delicious local milk from Mistyglen Creamery is what you need. It would pair perfectly with tasty desserts from our incredible bakeries like Spicers, Abby Mae's or Ruby Blues.
If you're craving something with a crunch, try the mouth-watering dill pickles from Jayjoe Farms or their fresh, crisp radishes. Bite into a juicy, locally grown tomato from Our Fields, perfect for making a refreshing salsa. If you're in the mood for grilling, The Turkey Shoppe has a wide selection of everything you could imagine, from pinwheels to pork. Spice up your summer with garlic powder and seasoning from Gully Ridge Farms. Maybe you're looking to plan ahead for the day, having an event or some friends over, or want to relax through the day? Stock up on some refreshing brews from Railway City Brewing Company, offering St. Thomas-themed drinks in a can, perfect for a lazy Saturday. For something more sophisticated to refresh you, look towards Quai du Vin. With so many exquisite wines to choose from, you'll add a whole new level to your summer.
With so many incredible vendors serving fantastic merchandise to keep you cool, you'll surely have a great time at the market and as you continue your day. Remember to stay hydrated, wear light, airy clothing and sunscreen, and take breaks in the heat. Feast your eyes on the delightful world of Kayla's Kitchen! Our story begins with an ambitious and multi-talented entrepreneur, Kayla, who started this culinary adventure in 2019. Picture this: she's juggling the excitement of building a business and the responsibilities of a full-time job at Inovata Foods, all while dreaming of creating something exceptional. What's her secret recipe, you ask? It's all about the love for homemade goodies and a dash of family values! Kayla wanted to build a business that could become a full-time option while raising her children. Now, who can resist that kind of passion and determination? At Kayla's Kitchen, it's all about celebrating the bounties of nature and embracing the season's flavours. You'll be enticed by various Jams, Jellies, Pickled Vegetables, and even some Salsas! But wait, there's more - Kayla's creativity knows no bounds. She whips up these delectable delights using fresh produce, often sourced from local farmers. It's like a symphony of tastes exploding in your mouth with every bite! Now, let's stroll through the bustling Horton Market - Kayla's absolute favourite place! There's an undeniable magic in the air as she chats and giggles with the regulars and fellow vendors. The joy is palpable as she proudly showcases her lip-smacking creations to anyone with an appetite for delicious treats. But hold on tight, folks, because Kayla has a master plan for this year - she's putting all her pickle-loving passion into pushing the Dill Pickled Eggs into the spotlight! Prepare your taste buds for a tangy explosion of flavours. And guess what? These little bites of heaven are now available at Briwood too! Can you hear the cheers from pickle enthusiasts around the town? Though Kayla loves all her culinary creations dearly, one star in her estimation shines brighter than the rest - the Pickled Asparagus! It's so irresistibly delicious that customers can't get enough of it. Seriously, it flies off the shelves faster than you can say, "pickle me up!" Consider yourself among the lucky few if you snag a jar of this delightful delight! They may not be Taylor Swift tickets, but a win all the same! Try this recipe if you have some at home but need to figure out how best to enjoy them! (pickled asparagus, not T-Swift tickets). So, whether you're a foodie searching for unique flavours or a pickle enthusiast looking to up your pickle prowess, Kayla's Kitchen has got you covered. Every jar is filled with love, passion, and the taste of the season. Come on and join the pickle party - an experience you will want to crave again!
August 3rd is considered National Watermelon Day and for good reason too. Here in Ontario, the watermelon harvesting window runs from July to September, with the peak arriving in August. These delicious fruits are often considered a staple of summer and highly anticipated by melon lovers near and far. While these fruits are typically accessible in large grocery stores outside harvest season, they aren't as sweet, ripe and ready as in summertime! This melon is entirely unique, from a striped, green outer shell, to the bright red delicious center, and it makes for a perfect way to keep cool and hydrated in summer! Being composed of 92% water, this fruit has an accurate name! Many of our farm vendors are always excited to bring the best watermelon of their fields directly to you through the Horton Farmers' Market. While eating this citrulline-rich fruit on its own is delicious, there are plenty of recipes to help you and your family beat the heat! A classic recipe and nearly a no-brainer, watermelon juice will help keep you and your family cool. You can make this drink as straightforward or sophisticated as you like. While some prefer drinking the juice with the melon as the only ingredient, others recommend adding lime juice, mint, sugar and even strawberries to sweeten the deal. You can concoct a watermelon lemonade using lemon juice and granulated sugar for a more tangy taste. Another odd but rather popular way to serve watermelon is found in salads. For a hot summer's day, watermelon is said to pair delightfully with cucumber, basil, lemon zest and feta cheese, making for a crunchy, refreshing appetizer. Not to mention beautiful! The red, green and white colours genuinely pop. If you still need to chill, this last recipe will cool you down quickly and make a delicious homemade dessert. While it requires an ice cream maker to prepare, this tasty treat will surely be a riot. For those who still want to enjoy a classic dessert but don't have an ice cream machine, watermelon ice pops are always possible and easy for the kids to help with too! With many possibilities and ways to prepare watermelon this summer, you'll surely return to the market for more! Remember to stay hydrated in the heat, and while watermelon is an excellent water source, sometimes nothing beats a good old bottle of H2O.
Once upon a time, in Southern Georgia, a love story began between Jerry and Cindy. They fell head over heels for a 200-acre pecan orchard. Life, however, has a way of weaving its twists and turns. As it always does, it led them on a different path, and they eventually sold the beloved farm, bidding farewell to Georgia and venturing back to their roots in Canada after 23 years. Upon their return, Jerry and Cindy scoured the stores, searching for the same freshness that had enchanted them in Georgia. They couldn't find any pecans that matched the exquisite taste they remembered. Then, a spark of inspiration ignited within them, and Clover Pecan Company was born. At first, they set out to bring up the freshest pecans directly from the farmers they knew and trusted. These handpicked treasures were meticulously shelled and lovingly brought to Canada, where they found an instant fan base in grocery stores across Ontario. The response was overwhelming, and their pecans quickly earned a reputation. Buoyed by their success and the joy they brought to pecan enthusiasts, they decided to expand their offerings. The trio of dark chocolate, praline, and cinnamon pecans debuted, becoming an instant hit. These luscious delights were embraced with open arms and quickly became a cherished addition to their growing pecan family. Their home base, Horton's Farmers Market, is their sanctuary, where the magic of Clover Pecan Company truly unfolded. Jerry and Cindy love sharing their story and captivating visitors with a slideshow of pictures from their Georgia farm. Tales of pecan trees and the fascinating pecan harvesting process left people in awe; many had never thought of the pecan origin story. With a heartwarming sense of pride, Jerry and Cindy relished the opportunity to share a bit of their life and passion, transporting their market-goers to the beauty and wonder of Georgia. It was their way of bringing a particular part of their Georgia life back up to Canada, a testament to their love for both places they called home. This year, they're excited to add regular pecan rolls and maple pecan rolls to their repertoire, fulfilling a long-cherished dream. "This year, we're excited to bring up regular pecan rolls along with our maple pecan rolls. It's a dream of mine to be that special treat at Christmas that everyone looks forward to getting. I'll be offering our Christmas gift boxes with a choice of maple or original pecan roll paired up with a couple of bags of our amazing pecans". Among all the delightful additions, Cindy's favourite will always be the plain pecans. "I absolutely love them! I have a handful every day. They are a nutritional powerhouse! 19 essential vitamins and minerals, high antioxidants, fibre…makes the body happy". But the magic didn't stop there. Clover Pecan Company had a secret recipe to share - roasted spiced pecans. With just the right balance of heat and sweetness, they will surely be a holiday favourite, evoking memories of Christmas joy and pecan-infused cheer. So come dear friends, and savour the magic of Clover Pecans, where Georgia meets Ontario in a nutty adventure of flavour and joy. A tale of love, passion, and the art of bringing the finest pecans from one home to another. Clover Pecan Company - the home of Georgia pecans in the heart of Ontario.
Welcome to Howe Family Farms, a vibrant and exciting agricultural venture in the heart of Elgin County. The Howe brothers expertly operate this 5th generation farm - Ryan, Rick, and Kevin, blending tradition with innovation to create a truly extraordinary experience. The Howe family's farming heritage dates back to the late 1800s, and their dedication to the land has been passed down through generations. As stewards of the farm, they have embraced modern farming practices while staying true to the crops cultivated by their ancestors. The brothers understand pollinators' vital role in the ecosystem and eagerly embrace initiatives to support their well-being. Each year, the farm's vibrant garden comes alive with a kaleidoscope of pollinator-friendly flowers, creating a buzzing haven for butterflies and bees. In fact, they've even participated in groundbreaking research programs, including tagging monarch butterflies to track migration patterns. Acts like this showcase their love for nature and their dedication to environmental sustainability. Howe Family Farms stands as a beacon of fresh, local produce. They have everything from sweet strawberries to mouthwatering watermelons and vibrant raspberries to pumpkins and squash! But Howe Family Farms is more than just a farm. It's a hub of community spirit and connection. The brothers have transformed their humble roadside stand into two bustling farm markets at 11143 Highbury Ave, St. Thomas, and 48556 John Wise Line in Aylmer, ensuring that the surrounding communities have easy access to their products. And let's not forget the infectious energy of the Horton Farmers' Market, "Every year, we are absolutely blown away by the support we receive from our community. Whether they visit our market, spend time Saturday mornings at the Horton Market, send us an encouraging message, leave us a review, or share something delicious from the market with a friend - we appreciate it!" Their newest crop, raspberries, takes center stage this year. "Growing raspberries is newer to us, and we are so excited to share this year's crop with you! We've been trailing and growing more each year, and this year will be the most we've grown to date. It's a big learning curve trying something new, and we can't wait to hear what everyone thinks of them". Among their offerings, strawberries hold a special place in the hearts of the Howe brothers. "At Howe's, we take pride in everything we do, but strawberries are our #1. We have been growing them for over 100 years. Now we can offer our customers the finest-tasting strawberries from late May to early November. Throughout the summer, different varieties of berries offer different flavour profiles." When making the most of their produce, the Howe brothers have a few tips and tricks up their sleeves. Take, for example, their beloved sweet corn. "We find fresh sweet corn is so flavourful it needs nothing (not even butter or salt!!); our favourite is keeping the husks on and roasting it over the fire. Then, we make sure to freeze (quick blanch, cut off the cob, freeze) for the winter! Nothing beats the winter blues like pulling out a bag of flavourful local corn from the freezer and making some creamy corn salsa for tacos in the wintertime!" Above all, Howe's Family Farm cherishes the profound support they receive from the community year after year. The joy of interacting with individuals who share their passion for quality, flavour, and sustainable farming practices is a constant source of inspiration. Whether it's a visit to the bustling farm markets, a vibrant morning at the Horton Farmers' Market, or the heartfelt messages and reviews received, the brothers are deeply grateful for their community's unwavering encouragement and connection. So immerse yourself in Howe's Family Farm, where tradition meets innovation. Your taste buds will thank you, and your connection to the land will grow stronger with each bite.
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