About Us

The Market’s Mission

Promote community through local commerce and entertainment.

The Market’s Policy Manual contains the rules and regulations which govern the operations of the Market. James Bay Market Society Policy Manual.

History

The James Bay Market Society was founded in 1995 by a small group of James Bay residents, assisted by a grant from the City. The non-profit Society obtained a $5000 grant from the city of Victoria to start a Summer Community Market.

During the first two years of operation, the Market was located at South Park School (corner of Douglas and Superior). In 1997, the Market relocated to a green space at the corner of Menzies and Superior, where it remains today.

The Market has grown and changed by leaps and bounds since its creation. From a handful of dedicated vendors back in 1995, Saturday mornings now see over 50 tents gathered weekly, selling handmade, homemade and homegrown products. Locals and visitors alike can grab a cup of coffee, pick up fresh produce and delicious prepared foods and baked goodies, shop a variety of artisan crafts and soak up the wonderful live music and community vibe.

The James Bay Market Society is now self-sufficient, and hosts an Annual Winter Market (The Dickens Fair) and a Spring Seed and Garden Show (Seedy Saturday).

James Bay Market Society Constitution

1. Name: James Bay Market Society
2. Purpose: In the spirit of community living in James Bay we want to promote the benefits of a local market with the intent to foster the uniqueness of this neighbourhood. The purposes of this society then, are as follows:

• To encourage and develop an awareness of the importance of local agriculture, art and craft.
• To encourage education about the environment, healthy living and organic farming.
• To provide a direct sales outlet in the neighbourhood for locally produced goods including: hand-crafted items, art, produce and home prepared foods.
• To provide an atmosphere that encourages community interaction and participation of the neighbourhood.
• To acquire, sell, manage, lease, mortgage, dispose of or otherwise deal with the property the society needs to carry on its various objectives.
• To increase awareness of the benefits of neighbourhood markets.

Created: October 27th, 2018