A successful first Community Market in Bourget

Bourget’s first Community Market was held on Saturday, October 15, along the Prescott and Russell Recreational Trail near the Bourget Pavilion. Organizers and participants alike are calling it a success.

The market will bring the community together to raise awareness of community initiatives and share how community members can get involved, promote wellness activities, support local businesses, share live music, and promote use of the trail.

Bourget resident Juliana Skarecky-Colwell organized the market in cooperation with the trail corporation and was thrilled with the interest from the community and local businesses.

“It was wonderful to see the community market come to life. It was a lot of work, but it was worth it. There was a constant stream of people,” she said.

In total, 16 vendors participated in the market and nine businesses from across Clarence-Rockland donated prizes.

“It was a well-organized and attended community event,” said vendor Lori Demers of Champlain Harvest Farm. “The turnout demonstrated support for a community market.”

“We had a wonderful time and greatly enjoyed meeting all the lovely people that came by,” said beekeeper and honey vendor Lucie Peleja of Peleja’s Apiary.

Prescott and Russell Recreational Trail Corporation President Eric Collard appreciates how the market promoted the trail to residents and visitors.

“We’re glad to be able to host all those people on our premises,” Collard said.

Clarence-Rockland City Councillor Diane Choinière was impressed by how the market featured local businesses, products, and services.

“It was a great opportunity for them to share with other members of the community and learn about their local businesses and services at their information booths,” Choinière said.

Skarecky-Colwell’s idea for the Bourget Community Market developed while she was cycling with her neighbour, Françoise Gagnon, who led the family-friendly and children’s activities which were offered at the market.

“To all those who participated in drawing activities, painting rocks and also in the race; a big thank you!” Gagnon said.

Based on the success of the first Bourget Community Market, organizers are hopeful another market can be held in the future.