By Valentina Perez Montoya
As the weather teases city residents with springtime temperatures and they are thrust into a seasonal transition, Ottawa’s hunger for change is palpable. In an era dominated by change –climate change, parasocial interactions and self-driving Teslas – Ottawans may still find value in the tangible and the familiar. A tradition spanning centuries takes place every spring in Ottawa’s most prolific public space, the ByWard Market.
Established by Lt.-Col. John By in 1826, the ByWard Market is one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets. Every spring for almost 200 years vendors have wrapped the historic ByWard Market building with colourful displays, artisanal goods and eye-catching wares.
While the ByWard Market is not impervious to change, it continues to be a hub for Ottawa’s vital commercial and cultural activities. Most recently endowed with its own LRT station, it is now easier than ever to get to the Market. The indoor market hall showcases authentic global cuisines and boasts some of the city’s coolest shops.
Whether you’re popping into Provence en Couleur for a bouquet of lavender, discovering unique fashions at Adaawewigamig, or snacking on a pastry at BeaverTails, there is something new to discover as well as tried-and-true classics to enjoy with every visit!
This May, Ottawa Markets is embracing tradition by partnering with the longest running festival in the Capital — the Canadian Tulip Festival! (See announcement on page 21.)
Just in time for the Mother’s Day weekend, the historic market building will be lined with tulips for sale, local vendors, artisans and street performers on May 13 and 14 and May 20 and 21. Watch the live painting of colossal tulips on George Street Plaza and walk amongst the blooms on the William Street road mural by local artist, Emilie Darlington.
Don’t miss the Tulip Trolley departing from the Market to the Festival grounds at Commissioners Park! Take the shuttle for a small fee to secure one-way or round-trip transportation. For a full list of stops and to purchase tickets, visit the Tulip Trolley page https://grayline-ottawa.com/tulip-festival-shuttle/
Ottawa Markets invites you to be part of the tradition at the ByWard Market this spring; a flowery market experience awaits you!
Stay connected with the latest Market news by visiting the Ottawa Markets website or by following us on social media.
Valentina Perez Montoya is the Events and Communications Coordinator for Ottawa Markets.
ottawamarkets.ca/events
@ottawamarkets
This May, Ottawa Markets is embracing tradition by partnering with the longest running festival in the Capital — the Canadian Tulip Festival!