Every Saturday from the end of April to the end of October an area just on the edge of town called Cottonwood Market magically comes to life. I try to go as often as I can.
It's more than just a spot to buy local produce. It is the largest market in the West Kootenays with a unique setting beside some waterfalls and a small park. It's the stomping grounds of young and old alike and is a mecca for the diversity that colours this region.
It's a time to mingle, zen out and take it all in. It is a spot where one can find organic farm products, ethnic baking, preserves, crafts, import clothing, jewelry, and various collectibles or used items.
It's also a spot to mellow out and listen to some local musical talent, be it a band with a Latino flare or Russian gypsy music. The locals aren't shy about rhythmically moving to the beat of the drum, stomping their feet or simply nodding their head to the flow of the music.
One can attend every single market and honestly say that no two are ever alike. Creativity and a unique culture unquestionably flourish here. There have been many visitors who I have taken to Cottonwood and the response is almost universally big eyes, gaping mouth, nodding head and then finally, "ah...this is Nelson." If you are ever in the region, make sure you stop by the Cottonwood market where tourists and locals alike converge for an unrivaled Kootenay experience.
Every Saturday from the end of April to the end of October an area just on the edge of town called Cottonwood Market magically comes to life. I try to go as often as I can.
It's more than just a spot to buy local produce. It is the largest market in the West Kootenays with a unique setting beside some waterfalls and a small park. It's the stomping grounds of young and old alike and is a mecca for the diversity that colours this region.
It's a time to mingle, zen out and take it all in. It is a spot where one can find organic farm products, ethnic baking, preserves, crafts, import clothing, jewelry, and various collectibles or used items.
It's also a spot to mellow out and listen to some local musical talent, be it a band with a Latino flare or Russian gypsy music. The locals aren't shy about rhythmically moving to the beat of the drum, stomping their feet or simply nodding their head to the flow of the music.
One can attend every single market and honestly say that no two are ever alike. Creativity and a unique culture unquestionably flourish here. There have been many visitors who I have taken to Cottonwood and the response is almost universally big eyes, gaping mouth, nodding head and then finally, "ah...this is Nelson." If you are ever in the region, make sure you stop by the Cottonwood market where tourists and locals alike converge for an unrivaled Kootenay experience.
20 comments:
Okay, that settles it - I'm packing it in and moving back to Nelson!
Cheryl, this year a woman was selling the best homemade tomatillo fresh salsa I think I've ever had. Wish I had bought more.
Wow, so beautiful .... stunning photo's..
Now this is a location - that I would feel right at home - and of course I so luv a market of knowledge.....
Wow it looks so lovely there. Great photos :)
Philosophy of Life, The market is definitely fun place to be, and Cottonwood is more interesting than most.
Guilty Secret, It really is lovely. Glad you liked the photos.
Sounds like a great place, thanks for sharing!
Mark, It truly is a wonderful place.
Your Cottonwood Market sounds nice and it´s good you can there buy local things too.
Steffi, I am sure that you have lots of nice markets in Germany too. I saw a few when I was there.
A place after my own heart. Sounds like bliss to me. Lovely pix. Wish I were there!
Oh! How I miss that market. We have a lovely Farmers' Market in Wolfville but it's nothing like Cottonwood. There's no place like Nelson! (maybe if I click my heels 3 times, I'll magically be transported there).
I love markets like that. I find I don't go often enough, which is probably better for the bank account. Gorgeous photos and your write up is quite enchanting.
Mother Wintermoon, Yes, in many ways it is bliss. A lovely place, indeed.
Bohemiam Girl, There have been many instances when I've wanted to click my heals. I just haven't found the right pair of ruby slippers yet.
Dawn, I really enjoy supporting the locals at these markets and find the food prices to be comparable to any grocery store.
I have been to that market and I must admit you are 100% correct. It is a wonderful place and the smells of the food, the sounds of music and the sights to see are one of a kind. Thanks for bringing back such fond memories of Nelson.
Hope you have a great wknd ;o)
Jillie, No doubt, it's a special place. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Have a fabulous weekend.
What a wonderful place to 'zen out'--lucky you.
Kevin, It's an absolutely fabulous place to "zen out." I really miss Cottonwood Market during the winter months.
I took a picture of that sign with every intention of posting about my visit to Cottonwood Market, which of course i never got around to doing. I did post about the great shirts my brother bought for my kids there though.
Emma, I understand. I have a whole slew of pictures of things that I intended to post on but haven't got around to yet. That seems to go with the territory. Thanks for dropping by.
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