About Us

The Horton Farmers' Market is a community-driven market that has been St. Thomas' connection to the very best in fresh local produce since 1878. Continuing the tradition started over 140 years ago, the Market offers the best fruits and vegetables, fish, meat, plants, herbs, flowers, soaps and lotions, honey, maple syrup, baked goods, artisanal foods and unique hand-crafted items our region has to offer. What makes the Horton Farmers' Market truly special—and economically impactful—is that it’s a producer-based market. That means every vendor you see there is either growing, raising, or making what they sell. No resellers, no mass-produced goods—just authentic, local products straight from the source, giving you an experience unique to St. Thomas.

The Horton Market operates through the direction and support of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation and the Elgin/ St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre on behalf of the City of St. Thomas.

As​ you're considering the idea of applying to be a vendor at the Horton Farmers' Market or looking to make your weekly shopping list, there are some things to think about.

• Seasons are sometimes unpredictable: we might have a rough idea when strawberries are supposed to start, but sometimes Mother Nature has different plans. We don't always know what our farmers will be able to bring week to week, but we know it will be delicious.
• You won't find fresh fruits and vegetables that aren't grown locally. You'll have to get your bananas elsewhere.
  
• You might catch some ugly vegetables on the tables- but the still taste great. Grocery stores often limit purchases to aesthetically pleasing fruits and veggies which can lead to a great deal of waste. By purchasing the ugly ones, you are preserving our food systems and probably saving money while you're at it.
  
• If you don't make or grow the overwhelming majority of what you're looking to sell at the market, this isn't the market for you- we highly recommend reaching out to the SBEC as they may have suggestions on other local markets and events that might be a better fit for you.
  

The Vendor Application Process

If you are interested in applying to be a vendor please take a moment to read the Vendor Rules prior to submitting your application.

All applicants that wish to sell food, whether grown or prepared, must fill out a Farmers' Market Vendor Notification Form and submit it at least 2 weeks before you wish to attend as required by Southwestern Public Health.​

We are now accepting applications for businesses looking to join the Horton Market Family. If you are interested in applying we have just a few reminders!

• Horton Farmers’ Market is a true farmers market that maintains a vendor breakdown that is primarily farmers. Our ability to accept other vendors depends on the number of farms at the market.
• Horton Farmers’ Market is a producer based market - this means that our vendors must grow or make what they sell at the market. This means there are no resellers or MLMs accepted.

The documents required for your application:
APPLICATION FORM - Winter at Horton Season
A standard spot will be 5ft for $30/week (plus HST) and a refrigerator spot will range from $60-$100 (plus tax).

APPLICATION FORM - Regular Season 2025
Costs vary. Please see application form for details.
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Please review the RULES & REGULATIONS and the MARKET CODE OF CONDUCT prior to completing an application.

If you have any questions email The Horton Market Coordinator.

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Want to Busk?

The Horton Farmers' Market is proud to support local, talented entertainers! Buskers help make a visit to the Market a special occasion, and provide a fun, community atmosphere. Musicians, Magicians, Mimes, Jugglers, etc are welcome to apply!

Submit this online application if you wish to be considered for busker space in the Market. Read on for more information about being a busker.

Busker Guidelines

• All entertainers must fill out the Busker Application Form and be accepted by the Horton Farmers’ Market.
• Performances should always be appropriate for a family based audience. 
• Sound enhancement/amplification is not permitted.
• Buskers are only permitted to perform in the designated areas as marked. 
• CD’s may be sold but no other merchandise may be sold.
• Performers under 18 must have the approval of their legal guardian.
• Performers under 16 should be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Performers may put out a hat or case to collect money.
• Please dress appropriately to face the public. A neat and clean appearance is most appealing.
• Buskers are not permitted to show up without being scheduled.
• At all times, performers must conduct themselves in a manner that is courteous to other entertainers, vendors, and public and be open to feedback from the market and its vendors. Remember that you are a welcomed guest and we do appreciate your contribution to the Horton Farmers' Market, but we must ensure the comfort of our customers and vendors alike.

Want to Volunteer?

Volunteering at the Market is a fun and interesting way to stay active, gain hours and be a part of your community! High school students hoping to gain their required hours are welcome to apply.
​We have volunteer opportunities in the following areas:

Children's Activities – Assist with planning and managing children’s learning activities.

Special Events – Assist in the setup, execution and breakdown of events.  

Market Ambassador – Greet Market customers and answer any question they may have.

Photography Volunteer – We’re always looking for great pictures of our market, vendors and products! Take photographs and document the farmers market and other special events.

Market Prep – Assist with the set up and take down of the Market.

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Thank you to the Horton Market Sponsors!