Farmers Markets in Alberta have been around since the early 1900's. In Central Alberta, farmers would bring their produce into Leduc to sell on a casual basis even before a formal market was organized. In 1973 the Minister of Agriculture established the Farmers Market Program in Alberta. Leduc Farmers Market received official status in 1975. The market was held inside the Alexandra Arena during the summer and inside the SAAN mall during the winter.
In 2001, due to repairs inside the arena, the market was moved outside to the park. The outdoor market proved to be very popular with the public and the vendors. Today, Leduc Farmers Market continues to thrive outdoors and runs from mid-May until the end of September each year. In 2019, Leduc Farmers' Market was located at the Leduc Heritage Grain Elevator. We are now located in the parking lot at the Leduc Recreation Centre.
The Leduc Farmer's Market Association is a non-profit society and the board is comprised of unpaid volunteers. A non‑profit farmer’s market creates a win‑win ecosystem for producers, shoppers, and the wider community. By operating without a profit motive, the Leduc Farmer's Market can focus on delivering value rather than generating revenue, which yields several tangible benefits:
Support for local growers – Revenues go straight back to the farmers, helping them cover costs, invest in sustainable practices, and stay viable against large agribusinesses.
Fresh, seasonal food – Shoppers gain direct access to produce harvested at peak ripeness, which typically means higher nutritional quality and better flavor. Food found in grocery stores has often been picked many days or weeks before appearing on the shelves. Food grown outside Alberta takes even longer to make it from the farm to your plate.
Economic circulation – Money spent at the market stays within the region, boosting local jobs and encouraging other small‑business activity.
Community building – Regular market days become social hubs where neighbors meet, share recipes, and forge relationships, strengthening social cohesion.
Education and awareness – Demonstrations, workshops, and signage can teach visitors about seasonality, sustainable farming methods, and nutrition.
Environmental stewardship – Shorter supply chains reduce transportation emissions, and many non‑profit markets prioritize organic or regenerative practices, contributing to soil health and biodiversity.
Food security – By providing a reliable outlet for locally grown food, the society helps buffer the community against disruptions in distant supply chains.
Overall, a non‑profit farmer’s market society leverages collective effort to promote healthier diets, resilient local economies, and a greener environment—all while fostering a sense of shared purpose among participants.
For the freshest, best tasting food and to support your local economy, be sure to visit the Leduc Farmers Market each week from Spring to Fall!
