Farmers’ market shutting down after nearly 15 years in southern Ontario

A farmers’ market that’s been serving the community for almost 15 years has announced it’s shutting down and won’t be continuing this upcoming summer season in Burlington.

Centro Market has been operating at Centro Gardens in Burlington for 14 years, but now the beloved local farmers’ market has taken to social media to let people know it’s all coming to an end.

“After 14 incredible years, we are announcing the end of the Centro Farmers’ Market. This decision has been anything but easy. What began as a simple idea grew into something so much bigger, becoming a space built on connection and support for local businesses. It started with Barry and Leslie Imber-Aske bringing the idea to life through their dedication, and years of continuous support,” reads an online announcement from Centro Market.

“It truly would not have been possible without them, and we are deeply grateful for everything they gave to help shape the market. We are also grateful for the support from Lisa Kearns and the Burlington Downtown Business Association. To everyone who showed up to the market week after week, supported local, and shared kind words, thank you. This market wouldn’t have been possible without your support. You are the heart of everything this market became, and we are beyond grateful for every moment that we’ve shared over the years. Please continue to support local and never stop showing love to small businesses. It truly makes all the difference.”

 

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The market operated on Sundays and had vendors selling everything from meat and produce to flowers. Locals who were sad to see the end of Centro Market took to the comments of the closure post on Instagram.

“Thank you for the memories and for bringing the true meaning of Centro to us for all of those years,” reads one comment.

“Centro is a Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese noun meaning center, middle, core, or downtown. It refers to the central point of something, a hub of activity, or the commercial, downtown area of a city. That’s what Centro Market was for me. You created something so special for our community, on your own time, early mornings, set ups, tear downs, wind, rain, hot days, cold days. Your efforts are truly appreciated by those of us who sipped our coffees and supported your local vendors.”

“So much gratitude for your work and what the market has given all of us,” someone else commented. “For me it was a chance to busk with my son, playing music together, meeting people, petting dogs. A life memory, and something I’ll cherish forever. Truly, can’t thank you enough.”