The Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market: A Vibrant Community Hub on Cowichan Lake

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Cowichan Lake in British Columbia, the Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market is a cherished local institution that has been bringing the community together for nearly two decades. Located at 10052 S Shore Rd, across from the Fire Hall in the quaint village of Honeymoon Bay, this market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a vibrant hub of local culture, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Open every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm, from the May long weekend until Thanksgiving, the market offers a delightful mix of locally made, baked, grown, or crafted products, attracting both locals and tourists from nearby towns like Nanaimo, Victoria, and Sooke.

A Rich History of Growth and Tradition

The Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market first opened in 2006, starting as a small gathering of vendors near The Coffee Mill cafe, which closed several years ago. Over the years, it has grown significantly, now boasting close to 20 permanent stalls, each constructed from recycled wood—a testament to the market’s commitment to sustainability and community. In 2016, the market celebrated its 10-year milestone, a remarkable achievement for a village of approximately 600 residents Lake Cowichan Gazette. This longevity highlights the market’s importance as a gathering place and a platform for local artisans, farmers, and producers.

Managed by Sandi and Collin Weagant, the market has become a destination for those traveling the Pacific Marine Circle Route or exploring the Cowichan Valley. Its growth reflects its role not only as a local hub but also as a regional attraction that showcases the best of the area’s creativity and produce Cowichan Lake.

A Unique Market Experience

What sets the Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market apart is its rustic charm and the personal touch of its vendors. Unlike many farmers’ markets that rely on temporary setups, this market features permanent stalls built from recycled wood, a unique feature on Vancouver Island Lake Cowichan Gazette. These stalls, crafted by the vendors themselves, give the market a “frontier town” feel, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern, locally made goods.

The market’s atmosphere is described as “fun and happy,” with live music, good food, and friendly interactions creating a welcoming environment Tourism Cowichan. Visitors can spend their Saturday mornings browsing stalls, sipping coffee, and enjoying performances by local musicians, such as Richie Valley, who has played at the market Cowichan Culture. The market’s location across from the Fire Hall, with the scenic backdrop of Cowichan Lake, adds to its appeal, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely outing.

Diverse Offerings from Local Artisans

The Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market is a showcase for local talent, with over 20 vendors offering a wide variety of products, while doing their best to adher to the market’s “make it, bake it, grow it, produce it, or craft it” ethos. The diversity of goods ensures there’s something for everyone, from fresh produce to unique handcrafted items. Other products available include baked goodies, candles, body care products, pewter, artwork, knitting, preserves, glass work, rustic wood furniture, wild rice, spices, teas, wooden toys, and unique floral arrangements Honeymoon Bay Market. This variety ensures that visitors can find everything from practical household items to one-of-a-kind gifts.

Supporting the Community

The market plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy and fostering community spirit. By providing a platform for artisans, farmers, and producers, it helps sustain small businesses and encourages entrepreneurship. Vendors like Brenda Morrison, who has been with the market since its inception, emphasize the importance of local sourcing, using plants from the Honeymoon Bay area to create her products Lake Cowichan Gazette. This commitment to local resources strengthens the community’s economy and environmental consciousness.

The market also serves as a social hub, bringing people together for weekly gatherings filled with music, food, and conversation. Its popularity extends beyond Honeymoon Bay, attracting visitors from across the region and contributing to the village’s reputation as a charming destination. Events like Bay Days and the Blackberry Festival, held in conjunction with the market, further enhance its role as a community centerpiece Lake Cowichan Gazette.

Visitor Information

• Location: 10052 S Shore Rd, Honeymoon Bay, BC V0R 1Y0, Canada, across from the Fire Hall.

• Operating Hours: Saturdays, 10 am – 2 pm, from the May long weekend to Thanksgiving weekend.

• How to Get There: Honeymoon Bay is approximately 10 minutes west of Lake Cowichan via South Shore Road. Visitors can also access it via the Pacific Marine Circle Route from Port Renfrew to Mesachie Lake, about 55 kilometers away Lake Cowichan Gazette.

• Nearby Attractions: The market is close to a swimming beach, Central Park with children’s seasonal artwork banners, and the historic Honeymoon Bay Hall, which features murals by artist George Jenkins. The area’s wildflower reserve and outdoor activities like hiking make it a great base for exploring the Cowichan Valley Cowichan Lake.