St. Jacobs Farmers' Market
Fresh Picks, Family Fun, Every Week
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Weather Fit
Year-round
Stroller Access
Excellent
Washrooms
Available
Food
Plenty of options
Parking
Free nearby
Booking
Not required
Parent Effort
Low
Bring the kids to St. Jacobs Farmers' Market for a vibrant adventure in taste, texture, and tradition - where every visit feels like a mini celebration.
About This Place
St. Jacobs Farmers' Market is Canada's largest year-round farmers' market, located just outside Waterloo, Ontario. With over 300 local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and ready-to-eat foods, it's a vibrant hub of Mennonite heritage and community spirit. Open Thursdays and Saturdays, it's perfect for families seeking authentic, locally sourced treats and unique finds in a lively, welcoming environment. Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy everything from apple fritters to artisan cheese.
Official Website open_in_new- Thursday
- 08:00 – 15:00
- Saturday
- 07:00 – 15:30
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Explore & Indulge
Sensory delight with fresh smells and tastes.
Meet the Makers
Meet local farmers and crafters face-to-face.
Family Fun Events
Catch fun live music and seasonal events.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Parking
- Free parking is available nearby, though the main lot can fill up quickly.
- Best time to visit
- Visit early, especially on Saturdays, to avoid the highest crowds.
- Family-friendly
- Highly family-friendly with a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere ideal for families.
- Food offerings
- Features numerous ready-to-eat food stalls, including popular items like apple fritters and cinnamon rolls.
- Local vendors
- Over 300 local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, baked goods, preserves, and handcrafted items.
- Cultural heritage
- Strong Mennonite heritage with many Mennonite farmers selling locally grown products.
- Accessibility
- Just over an hour's drive from Toronto; easily accessible by car.
- Nearby attractions
- Close to Market Road Antiques, Stockyards Brewing, and the Waterloo Central Railway.
Kid Fit by Age
Quiet areas and stroller-friendly paths make it easy to navigate with infants; fresh, wholesome food options are available for nursing parents.
The market's lively atmosphere and variety of sights, smells, and sounds engage toddlers, while ample space allows for safe walking and exploration.
Kids can enjoy sampling treats like apple fritters, exploring colorful produce displays, and observing farmers and artisans - a sensory-rich experience ideal for young children.
Children can participate in food tastings, explore farm-to-table concepts, and enjoy hands-on learning about local agriculture and crafts.
While the market offers engaging activities, tweens may find it less stimulating unless accompanied by family or involved in specific experiences like trying unique foods or shopping for quirky crafts.
Teenagers might enjoy food samples and photo ops, but the overall focus on families and agriculture may not appeal to all; interest depends on personal curiosity about local culture and food.
Insider Tips
Arrive by 8 AM on Saturdays to beat crowds
Try the apple fritters from the first vendor tent
Pick up a free market map at entrance
Join the Sunday morning brunch pop-up
- •Watch for crowded walkways
- •Keep children close near food stalls
- •Be aware of uneven pavement in outdoor area
- •Step-free access to all buildings
- •Sensory-friendly quiet hours available
- •Baby change facilities in restrooms
- •Accessible restrooms throughout market
schedule Best Time to Visit
Visit on Thursday mornings for the quietest experience.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxReusable shopping bags
- check_boxCash for small vendors
- check_boxWater bottle
- check_boxSun hat
- check_boxRain jacket
Location
Address
878 Weber St N, Waterloo Regional Municipality, ON N2V 0H2, Canada
Phone
+15197471830
Make it a half-day
View All Waterloo
Last checked: 2026