Regina Farmers' Market Returns to Downtown Roots for 2026 Saturday Season
The Regina Farmers' Market (RFM) has announced a significant return to its traditional downtown location for the upcoming 2026 outdoor season. After a temporary relocation, the popular Saturday market will once again set up shop in City Square Plaza, reestablishing its presence in the heart of Regina's urban core.
Season Details and Community-Driven Decision
The 2026 outdoor season will officially commence on May 2 and continue through October 10, featuring both Saturday and Wednesday market operations. This decision follows extensive community consultation that revealed overwhelming public support for a downtown location.
"Customers told us clearly and passionately that downtown is where they want their farmers' market to be," explained RFM executive director Holly Laird in a recent news release. "The plaza has always felt like home, and returning gives us the opportunity to bring people together again around local food in the heart of the city."
Survey Results and Location History
Last fall, the RFM conducted a comprehensive survey that garnered more than 1,700 responses regarding market locations. According to the organization's announcement, an "overwhelming majority" expressed a strong preference for Saturday markets to be held downtown.
This marks a return to familiar territory for the RFM, which operated its outdoor season downtown for more than a decade before construction on 11th Avenue prompted a temporary relocation in 2024. During that period, the larger Saturday market moved to REAL District's Confederation Park, while the smaller Wednesday market continued operating in the Victoria Park vicinity.
Balancing Vendor Needs and Community Values
The decision to return downtown involved careful consideration of various stakeholder perspectives. While vendors indicated a preference for Confederation Park due to easier setup logistics, the RFM ultimately prioritized community impact and downtown vibrancy.
"As a co-operative, our responsibility is to balance the needs of our members with the values and expectations of the community we serve," stated RFM board president Gerard Milburn in an official statement.
Current Operations and Future Outlook
During the ongoing indoor season, the RFM continues to operate Saturdays at REAL District's Banner Hall. The upcoming transition to City Square Plaza for the outdoor season represents both a return to tradition and a response to clear community demand.
This strategic move underscores the market's commitment to supporting local agriculture while contributing to downtown revitalization efforts. The return to City Square Plaza is expected to enhance accessibility for urban residents and visitors while maintaining the market's role as a community gathering space.
