The Market – Western Fair District Over the last couple of decades, The Market at Western Fair District has become a destination for local shopping. While supporting local farmers and artisans, residents of Old East Village have been enjoying the walk on a Saturday or Sunday to the market to gather things for the week. For many across London, it has become a weekend excursion. When looking at rentals or real estate in OEV you will notice how often The Market is mentioned as a key point of interest. If you enjoy the nostalgia of an authentic farmers’ market, it truly fits the bill. The Western Fair Association became a corporation in 1887 and had buildings constructed on the grounds at Queen’s Park. The main building at the Western Fair was a huge wood and glass structure called the Crystal Palace. Unfortunately, it was lost in a fire in January of 1927. Its replacement was the Confederation Building, and the new red brick structure became a place for the annual fair and special events where local merchants could showcase a diversity of wares. It is now the home of the farmer’s market we know and love.
1954 traffic, but the optimism and energy at the market remain vibrant. Every weekend, they open their doors and welcome regular shoppers as well as newcomers. The beautiful historic building is home to over 100 shops that sell a wide selection of fresh and prepared foods, as well as a variety of locally made, unique and one-of-a-kind items in The Artisans Loft on the 2nd floor. A dedicated community space sponsored by Libro allows many not-for-profit and community-based groups like Kiwanis, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, the Fire Department and more to share and create awareness through outreach right in the heart of our community. Information and creating awareness is strong. The market believes wholeheartedly that ‘Farmers feed our bodies, Artists feed our soul and Community feeds our spirit’.
The Crystal Palace
Architectural Drawing of The Crystal Palace
To advertise here, please contact Marty@villagerpublications.com In 2006, a new vision came about from local entrepreneurs to provide a permanent place for locally grown and artisan-made products. The market started opening its doors regularly on Saturdays, giving many types of vendors the opportunity to launch and test their ideas. In 2017, the Western Fair Association took over the running of the Market and by 2018, the market started running on both Saturdays and Sundays for locals to enjoy. During Covid, the market remained open despite the difficult times. Many may remember lining up outside to visit their favourite vendors. Since then, shoppers have returned, but it’s still been a challenge. The recent BRT construction has also slowed the foot
The Arts Building, 1914
Learn more at themarketwfd.com and by following the Western Fair Market on Facebook.
Old East Villager March-April 2025 • Page 9
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