'We're open and awestruck': Downtown indoor market finally opens
Renovations, permit woes delayed unveiling of Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market
The Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market debuted in its permanent indoor home on Saturday.
After months of delays, vendors welcomed shoppers to stalls inside the historic GWG building on 97th Street and 103rd Avenue.
"We're open and awestruck. Absolutely wonderful. It's better than I ever expected," said market board member Sherry Horvath.
Initially meant to open in the spring, renovations didn't wrap up until autumn.
An attempt to hold a grand opening earlier this month was stymied when the city paused last-minute renovations over permitting issues.
Horvath said the market's opening Saturday wasn't confirmed until after 5:30 p.m. Friday. Despite the last-minute notice, market organizers were happy with the crowds and the positive reception on the first day.
"Everybody that walks in the door loves it," she said.
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The light-filled building features tall windows and hardwood floors. Many of its historic features have been retained.
Though the market has had a temporary winter home in city hall, it is best known for its summer location on 104th Street, where it existed for 15 years.
While the street location was popular with market lovers, the new home shelters vendors and their customers from unpleasant weather.
The market will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.