By Joanne Jordan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Guysborough Journal
GOSHEN: In a rural corner of Guysborough County, where access to retail and fresh produce is limited, a grassroots effort to promote local buying and selling is entering its second year.
While the May 18 kickoff for the Goshen Market was rained out, organizers say the weekly outdoor market will open Sunday, May 25 – weather permitting – at the Goshen Community Centre. The market is scheduled to run every Sunday through the end of August, offering locally made and grown goods for residents and visitors alike.
Organized by Roselyn McDermott and her daughter, Stephanie Charlebois, the market was created to fill a gap in the community.
“Antigonish and Sherbrooke have wonderful markets – why not have something like that here,” said McDermott in an email to The Journal.
Last year, between five and 12 vendors set up booths each Sunday, offering everything from pickled products and microgreens to handmade jewelry and flea market items. The community centre also sells food and drinks on-site.
This year, McDermott said several vendors are returning, and organizers are hoping to attract more participants, especially those selling fresh produce.
“We’re hopeful that new vendors [will] come out this year,” she said.
Participation is free, though vendors must bring their own tables. The idea, McDermott added, is to draw people in and create a sense of local activity.
“The idea of an outdoor market is to catch the attention of those driving by,” she said. “We’re very thankful to the Goshen Community Centre for providing the space and to the community for their ongoing support. The feedback has been very positive.”
The market also supports rural economic development, encouraging entrepreneurship and strengthening local food systems—a growing concern in many Nova Scotia communities facing rising food prices and limited grocery access.
To book a vendor space or learn more, residents can email goshenmarket11@gmail.com.