When it comes to the Sooke Night Market, a few dollars here and a few dollars there certainly adds up to a tidy sum.
 
According to a report from the B.C. Farmers' Markets, the fair injects more than $660,000 annually into the local economy.
 
"Although people think of markets as a great place to buy fresh local food, the results of the study help us communicate to others how valuable the farmers' market is to our community," Elizabeth Shaw, program manager for B.C. Farmers' Markets said.
 
Approximately 16,600 people a year visit the Sooke Night Market, which is participating in a province-wide study on the economic benefits of farmers' markets.
 
A survey on 27 Jul 2023 showed that of the 1,236 who attended the market, more than 100 participated in a survey that showed almost a third visited the market either regularly (almost weekly) or frequently, two to three times a month.
 
"Farmers' markets continue to serve as the face of farming in B.C. There has been significant growth in the number and vitality of farmers' markets in B.C., and it is important to understand not only what they contribute, but also how much they contribute to local neighbourhoods, cities, and towns," said Heather O'Hara, executive director of the B.C. Association of Farmers' Markets.
 
David Connell, a University of Northern B.C. professor, and lead on the project, said it builds upon the results of similar studies completed in 2006 and 2012.
 
He said a comparison of those studies and the latest one will show how much has changed.
 
Gail Scott, the economic development officer for the District of Sooke, said the market has support from locals, tourists, and people from Metchosin and Langford.
 
"The booths are always creative, whether they're here for a couple of markets, or every week for the entire season," she said.
 
"It's an attractive market that offers a lot of variety, and one of the keys to that variety are the local farmers who provide very good produce. The district has a booth there every week and the produce booths were typically sold out on the nights I was there."
 
Another draw is the small, home-based, businesses that offer baked goods, homemade beverages, and treats for sale.
 
"In a lot of cases, if you don't get there early, you're out of luck," Scott said.
 
The market is also an opportunity for small businesses just starting to introduce themselves and their products or services to the community, she added.
 
The Sooke Night Market, organized by the Sooke Region Historical Society, is in its 10th season.
 
Rick Stiebel.